Are you thinking about installing solar panels on your home? The decision to go solar comes with a range of benefits, from making your home more cost-effective and energy independent to contributing positively to the environment. However, before you dive into the world of solar energy, it’s important to understand some key factors that will help you on your path to solar.

1. Do you understand your electricity needs and costs?

To determine the appropriate size for your solar system and to maximize the potential financial benefits of going solar, it’s essential to closely evaluate your energy needs and costs. Here's how:

1. Assess Your Energy Usage: Look at past electricity bills to understand how much energy you consume on a monthly and annual basis.

2. Understand Peak Hours: Identify when you use the most electricity. Solar panels generate power during daylight hours. If your highest energy consumption aligns with sunlight hours, you’ll maximize direct benefits from your solar system. Otherwise, consider adding a solar battery to store energy for use during peak hours.

3. Analyze Energy Costs: Know how much you’re currently paying for electricity. Solar can be a significant investment, but it may offer long-term savings, especially if you live in an area with high electricity rates. The higher your current energy costs, the quicker you might see a return on your solar investment.

4. Future Energy Needs: Consider any planned changes that might increase your energy consumption, such as purchasing an electric vehicle or adding new appliances. These purchases can increase your energy consumption and may require a larger solar installation.

5. Incentives, Rebates, and Tax Credits: Look into any local, state, or federal incentives, rebates, or tax credits that could reduce the cost of a solar installation. Incentives can significantly impact the affordability and payback period of your solar system.

By carefully considering these aspects of your electricity usage and costs, you can make a more informed decision about whether solar is right for you.

2. Will Solar Panels Work On My Home?

Solar panels are designed to function in a variety of climates. However, solar panels aren't right for every home. If a solar professional determines that your roof isn't suitable for solar due to issues like excessive shade, unsuitable roof characteristics, or simply because you rent your property, not to worry— you still have options to reduce your energy costs and environmental impact.

Consider the advantages of installing a stand-alone storage system:

1. Lower Energy Bills: Even without solar panels, a home battery can be charged during off-peak hours when electricity is cheaper. This stored energy can then be used during peak hours, when rates are typically higher. This practice, known as "load shifting," can lead to significant reductions in your electricity bills.

2. Increased Energy Independence and Resilience: A home battery enhances your control over your energy usage. By storing electricity, you can maintain power during outages or periods of high demand, reducing your reliance on the grid. This is particularly valuable in areas with less reliable power infrastructure or frequent blackouts.

3. Environmentally Friendly: Integrating a stand-alone battery system contributes to a greener environment. Batteries support the broader use of renewable energy sources by storing excess power and reducing the use of polluting power plants during times of peak demand. This helps in decreasing overall carbon emissions, aligning with efforts to combat climate change.

In addition to considering a home battery, investing in energy-efficient appliances and making targeted home improvements can further enhance your home's efficiency and cost-effectiveness, while reducing your carbon footprint.

Learn more about the types of home upgrades you can make here.

3. Is Solar Safe?

Today’s solar panels are engineered with safety as a top priority. Rigorous international inspections and testing standards ensure that all solar panels meet stringent safety criteria. During installation, qualified installers adhere to local building, fire, and electrical codes to further enhance safety measures. Your solar energy system also undergoes a comprehensive inspection by a certified electrician. In addition, states like Florida have requirements that home solar installations can withstand high winds and hurricane conditions.

Solar panels typically last for over 25 years, during which they generate electricity without emitting any air pollution. When they reach the end of their lifespan, the recycling and disposal of solar panels are carefully regulated to ensure responsible management of hazardous materials. Dedicated photovoltaic (PV) recycling facilities manage the recycling process, ensuring that environmental and safety standards are upheld throughout the disposal lifecycle. Learn more about solar panel recycling from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

Deciding to switch to solar energy for your home means understanding how it works. From grasping the basics of solar technology to assessing if your home is suitable for solar panel installation, each aspect needs careful consideration. With this knowledge, you can feel confident making a well-informed decision about whether solar energy is right for your home.

4. How to Choose A Trusted Solar Company

Choosing a reputable solar company is crucial for a successful solar installation. Look for companies with positive reviews, customer testimonials, relevant accreditations, and a commitment to addressing customer needs.

If you ever encounter any issues, know that there are avenues to protect yourself:

• To file a formal complaint regarding a solar business, complete this form on the SEIA website. 

• At the federal level, you can report fraud, scams, and unethical business practices to the Federal Trade Commission. 

• State laws vary, it’s advised to reach out to your state or territory's consumer protection offices to explore the assistance they can provide.

• If you are a GoodLeap customer and are having trouble with your installer, please contact us at consumercomplaints@goodleap.com.

It's essential to prioritize transparency, reliability, and accountability in every step of your solar journey to ensure peace of mind and satisfaction with your investment.

Want to learn more about if rooftop solar is right for you? We have you covered: 

• Understanding the Benefits of Residential Solar

• Going Solar: Financing Your System & Maximizing Savings

• Embrace Solar Power: 5 Compelling Reasons to Make the Switch

Ready to make the switch? Contact your local solar installer to ask if they offer GoodLeap financing.