Buying A House With Owned Solar Panels: Questions To Ask
The easiest case is when the homeowner paid cash for the solar panels. It means that when you buy the home, you will fully own and be responsible for the solar panels.
If they used a loan, they may have an outstanding balance and still be paying off the loan, even after selling the house. As a practical concern, this doesnât affect your ownership of the panels: you will own them outright, even if the original owner still has a remaining balance on their loan.
Order The Right Equipment
Once you have all the correct permits and paperwork in place, your solar installer will be ready to order your equipment.
Note that, by this point, you will already have picked out the types of solar panels you need and the best solar batteries and inverters for your home. These decisions are typically laid out in a solar proposal, sent well before you sign your contract.
Naturally, youll want to make sure you research how solar panels work and the different options available to you. Whether you want the most efficient solar panels or the most affordable, your solar installer can help you pick equipment that will help you achieve your solar energy goals.
Once your solar equipment is ordered, your name will be added to the installers queue. Basically, this means youll be put on the schedule for an installer to assemble your solar panels as soon as they arrive from the distributor.
Solar Thermal Costs Considerations In Bc
Solar thermal systems are complex systems which can be installed in various different configurations depending on application, geographic location and site conditions.
The average cost for installing a domestic solar hot water system is about $6,000 for a small family. Evacuated-tubes are about 20% to 30% more expensive than flat-plate collectors.
A solar hot water system can provide water heating needs all year round. In the summer, it can provide up to 100% of hot water needs and in winter it can provide up to 25%. A solar hot water system can easily be integrated with your existing domestic hot water system to provide you with hot water all year round.
The true savings realized with installing a solar hot water system will depend on the type of system installed, its location and your home’s existing hot water system. For example, solar hot water systems are most efficient when used to heat a swimming pool. A professional contractor can help you design and install the most optimum solar hot water system for your home.
Recommended Reading: How Much Can Solar Panels Save Me
What You Should Know About Grid
- In B.C., a 1kW solar PV array would require about 7 to 8 square metres of south facing free space. A professional systems installer can help you estimate the solar potential of your home.
- Before installing a solar system on your home’s roof, consider your roof’s current condition and if rework is needed anytime in the near future.
- Installing a solar PV system can be complicated, especially for roof mounted systems. Solar panels are essentially made of glass and need to be handled with care. Mounting solar panels on your roof should be done by a roof system professional to ensure that no damage is done to the buildings existing weather proofing during installation.
- Connecting a solar PV system to the grid requires complex electrical connections which need to be approved by BC Hydro. Hiring a professional solar PV system installer will help ensure that all necessary permits are obtained and that all safety measures are in place before the system is energized.
How To Install Solar Panels At Home
We will be showing instructions on how to install ONE array of solar panels. The measurements here will vary depending on the size of the solar panels youll be installing. As solar panels bring in more WATTS, they become bigger in size. Make sure each array of solar panels you do, has the exact same solar panels to ensure proper fitment across the entire array.
Read Also: How Much Power Does A 5kw Solar System Produce
Solar Panel Maintenance Costs
Solar panels are pretty much maintenance-free and should last for at least 25 years.
Solar PV systems are relatively simple and have no moving parts, so they don’t need much maintenance.
However, within 25 years, youll need to replace the inverter 14% had a problem with their inverter, when we asked solar panel owners.*
Once youve had solar panels installed, your installer should give you written details of any maintenance checks you need to carry out occasionally to check your system is working properly.
Use our Trusted Traders search tool to find a solar panel installer in your area.
Can I Install My Own Pv System A Diyers Checklist
Its time for the litmus test that tells you whether to proceed boldly as an amateur solar installer or to hand over the reins to a professional. For most of you, the decision will come down to the rules of the local building authority or your utility provider, either of which may require that solar installations be done by a licensed professional. This is also the best time to confirm that your project wont be nixed by your zoning department, historical district standards, or your homeowners association.
WARNING: PV systems are inherently dangerous and potentially deadly. As a DIY system installer and owner, you must understand, respect, and mitigate the risks involved with all installation and maintenance tasks. Pay special attention to safety warnings as well as all requirements in the local building and electrical codes and equipment instruction manuals.
Text excerpted from Install Your Own Solar Panels © 2017 by Joseph Burdick and Philip Schmidt. All rights reserved.
Read Also: How To Be A Good Solar Salesman
Virtuoso Makes Going Solar Easier Than Ever
Our company mission is to enable Western Canada to live greener lifestyles through turn-key sustainable energy solutions like solar power. To date, weve installed hundreds of solar panel solutions in Edmonton, Calgary, and all of Western Canada. Now, were ready to help you make the switch to solar.
Are The Solar Panels Paid For Already
Just because there are solar panels on a home doesnât mean that the homeowner owns the panels. There are three possibilities for how the owner acquired the panels:
- The homeowner paid for them. This means that the owner either paid cash for the system, or took out a loan.
- The homeowner used a lease or power purchase agreement . With a lease or PPA, the homeowner doesnât own the solar panels, but they are instead owned by the solar company.
- The homeowner used PACE financing. In California, Missouri, and Florida, solar owners can use the PACE financing program to pay off solar panels with an assessment on property taxes.
Depending on which of these is the case, youâll have different follow-up questions for the homeowner.
Also Check: Is It Better To Lease Or Buy Solar
What Direction Should Solar Panels Face
The most important consideration is the solar panels access to sunlight. They need to be installed in a location that gets direct sunlight most of the day. You want to avoid installing in a space with a lot of trees, because eventually, either the trees will shade the panels or the leaves, pine needles, and debris will cover the panels.
Maybe Your Trees Have Grown Taller
One thing that can be easy to overlook is that the landscaping around your home might have changed since your system was installed. You might not notice a gradual change in the canopy of a tree until one day you start to see your solar production drop. Look for trees that are on or near your property that have grown taller or added branches and are now shading your solar panels.
You May Like: What Makes A Good Solar Panel
Ground Mount Tracking Or Roof Mounting: Which System Is Best For Your Home
Roof mounting and ground mount tracking solar panels each have their own set of advantages. The rooftop option is ideal for those with limited yard space or those who would rather dedicate their lawn to decks or swimming pools. With the solar panel system completely installed on the roof, you wont have to make any major landscaping compromises. Roof panels also serve as extra protection, helping to extend the life of the roof. If you do not have ample roof space and ground mounting is an option, we have many different designs to choose from. If you have unlimited space, a large ground mount could be the best solution. If your space is limited, a tracking system may be best for you. Although a tracking system may cost a little more up front, they are on average 45% more efficient. The return on investment for a tracker can be equal to a much larger ground or roof mounted system.
Ground mount tracking systems are perfect for those with a large amount of unused land or those who are unable to install roof panels. With ground-mounted panels, homeowners can utilize larger systems, resulting in even greater energy savings. This option also provides more flexibility in avoiding shading issues since they can more easily be placed in sunny areas in the yard.
Is Professional Installation Really Required
This has to be one of the most daunting questions when one is considering having a solar panel system installed. Can this be a DIY project?
The quick answer is, Yes.The long answer is, Maybe.
This DIY solar panel installation project, will require quite a bit of effort to do properly. We are going to cover instructions on how you can install solar panels on your roof, wire them together, get your solar power controllers, store your energy, and disperse it into your home. Everything will be laid out in a step-by-step manner. At the END of the guide, Ill mention some things which you should be looking out for.
Read Also: How To File As Sole Proprietor
How To Use Your Solar Panels After Installation
After your solar panels have been installed, its time to enjoy the benefits! Youll be generating clean energy and helping to reduce your energy bills. However, you will still have to pay for any energy you use that you dont generate yourself. Think of programming your appliances for daytime to get the best out of your system. You may even want to consider getting battery storage or other smart devices that let you make the most of your free energy.
How Long Does It Take To Install Solar Panels
If the solar panels are being installed on your roof, you’re probably going to need scaffolding.
Once the scaffolding is up, the panels could be installed in less than a day. Roofers will attach the fixing brackets on to the rafters of your roof this is why a proper surveyor should go into your loft to check the integrity of the roof and the rafters. The solar panels will then be clamped on to the fixing brackets.
The size and complexity of your system will affect how long installation takes. Ask your installer for an estimate of timings so you’re prepared.
If scaffolding is needed, check with the surveyor that there is space for it and that the cost is included in your quote.
Read Also: How Do Solar Batteries Work
Solar Seasonality In New South Wales
Stay cool in summer with solar. With an average of 7-8 hours of sunshine per day, your home can run efficiently with the opportunity to offset your bill.
Autumn provides great conditions for solar energy. With an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day, theres plenty of light to help power your home.
New South Wales has more blue sky days in winter than in summer. Even though the days are a little shorter, averaging 7 hours of sunshine, you’ll still power your home with solar.
Cool months offer conditions where solar can be efficient and effective. Averaging 8 hours of daily sunshine, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of this perfect solar season.
Solar Energy Information Before You Install
Thinking about solar? Heres what you need to know before you buy.
1. You can live in cloudy Britain and still use solar panels
How solar panels work in the UK is exactly the same as anywhere else. You dont have to live in an area with wall-to-wall sunshine to generate solar energy. Solar panels work even through clouds. However, the more sunshine you get, the more energy youll generate.
2. You need a south-facing roof
Ideally, you need a south-facing or south-west facing roof. With the latest technology most homes could benefit from solar PV. Only north facing roofs are not suitable.
3. You shouldnt need planning permission
Good news most homes dont need planning permission to install solar panels. However, if you have a flat roof or live in a conservation area you might want to check with your local council before going ahead.
4. You can still switch suppliers
Of course, you are still free to switch suppliers if you have solar panels. No matter which energy supplier youre with when you get them fitted, you can still change.
5. You need a certificate
Youll need an Energy Performance Certificate and a rating of D or above to qualify for a FiT. An EPC rates a building on its energy efficiency, A is the most efficient and G is the least efficient. Gov.uk can point you in the right direction of an accredited energy assessor.
If youre not ready for this step, but are trying to be more environmentally-friendly, then take a look at our low-carbon tariff.
Recommended Reading: Can I Install Solar Panels On My Townhouse
How Do You Claim The Solar Investment Tax Credit
The solar tax incentive is claimed as part of your annual federal tax return. Any reputable solar company should provide documentation and instructions on exactly how to claim the ITC as part of your solar installation. Below is a quick overview of what that process will look like. Though fairly simple, its best to consult with a tax professional when filing your return.
To claim the federal solar tax credit, follow these steps:
As a reminder, the tax credit only offsets the taxes you owe on your return. If the taxes you owe are less than the credit you earn, the credit will roll over year after year.
In addition to the ITC, be sure to file for any sales and property tax exemptions that may be available in your state.
How Can You Find The Right Solar Installation Company
At SolarReviews, we recommend going with a reputable local solar installer. Generally, youll want the installer to meet these requirements:
- Been in business for over 5 years
- Hires their own installation crew
- Has between 15 and 20 employees
- At least one NABCEP-certified installer
But remember, you also want to make sure the company is charging a fair price for their services. If its too cheap, you might have to worry about a shoddy installation or low-quality equipment. If its too expensive, you might be paying an extra premium for no added benefits.
You need to find a happy medium of a solid price from a trusted company that uses high-quality materials. The best way to connect with companies in your area is by using our state-of-the-art solar calculator, which will not only give you a detailed cost and savings estimate catered to your specific home, but will also put you in contact with our vetted solar installers.
Learn more: Guide to the top-rated solar installers in your area
Read Also: How Much Solar For A Tiny House
How Much Does Solar Energy Cost In Edmonton
The overall cost of solar panels in Edmonton depends on how much it costs to install the solar panels on your home or business, and how much energy youre able to generate.
The cost of installing solar panels in Edmonton varies based on your property, so an estimate is required. The installation cost will vary based on the size, pitch, and condition of your roof. In some cases, upgrades may be required to your electrical system in order to make it compatible with solar energy generation.
On top of the cost of solar panels themselves, other costs can include electrical equipment, inverters, labour, and any permits required. You may also be able to take advantage of local, provincial, or national solar incentives and rebates to reduce the costs of installation.
Its also important to factor in the return on investment of your solar system. In other words, in addition to the cost of installation, you should also factor in how much money youll make or save from the investment.
The amount of energy your solar system is able to generate over its lifetime is dependent on the size and pitch of your roof, how far Edmonton currently is from the sun, and how much sunlight exposure your roof gets.
For an accurate estimate on the cost of solar for your home or business in Edmonton, ask Virtuoso Energy for a free solar assessment.
You Might Have A Solar Panel Or Inverter Failure
While solar panels normally last a really long time, its still possible for you to experience a failure. If you have microinverters, this is less noticeable because you might have only one solar panel out. With a string inverter, a failure can knock out a string or the entire array, leaving you with no electricity production.
Your monitoring system will often alert you automatically, but its a good idea to check on your system periodically – at least once a week – to see if everything is operating normally.
With my Enphase microinverters, I get an automatic email alert to let me know if one or more microinverters isnt producing electricity.
Don’t Miss: How Far Can Solar Panels Be From House
