What to Look for When Investing Into Solar Panels
When you’re ready to buy a solar electrical system, it’s important to thoroughly check all the different packages that companies have to offer in order to ensure you’re getting the best deal, and the highest quality solar electric panels. In other words, before you open up your wallet and make a huge investment in a solar energy system, there are a couple of things you need to strongly consider.
First of all, how much power does your home need? If your power costs break down the amount electricity you use on a daily basis, you can easily determine how many watts your solar panels will have to generate to satisfy your needs. During peak hours, when the sun shines the brightest, the solar panel works most efficiently, outputting up to 200 watts.
Next, how can one make the most out of the sun? There are some accessories like mounting bracket and specially made solar panel cables that allow you to put the panels on a proper mount so that it generates power during cloudy, rainy and low-light days. The specifically made solar panel cables allow you to connect the entire solar system in a safe fashion. These cables are weather resistant and extremely durable.
Depending on the size of the roof space you have available, you might be forced into buying mono-crystalline panels. These are more expensive but also more efficient. Solar technology is rapidly changing and many advances are being made on a regular basis, there are new thin film and polycrystaline panel technologies which are specially made to utilize small spaces.
The most important thing, however, is finding a reliable and trustworthy manufacturer and installer. Ask family and friends who have solar panels installed to share some experiences with you. Reliable manufacturers will have a warranty on their product. However, for the warranty to be viable, the manufacturer needs to be operating, so be cautious of brands without a good tracking record.
Prices vary between providers, so make sure you get a couple of solar quotes. Don’t be swayed away by price, as inferior quality components can be used to reduce the initial cost, which will end up costing you more in the long term when it comes to efficiency and reliability. Moreover, make sure your solar panel has certifications like the TUV IEC 61215 for instance (tested by an independent laboratory and has met the specifications it advertises for), and is tested for the harsh Australian weather conditions and approved. Other company certifications are usually self-assessed so you rely completely on the company being honest.
