Important Things to Consider Before Moving to Solar

All across the UK, an increasing number of homeowners are starting to invest in solar power systems. At present, there are already more than 970,000 homes that boast solar installations according to a 2020 government report. Going solar at home is definitely a big deal.  That is why it is so important to do sufficient research and weigh up all your options before making a decision and parting with any money. When it comes to installing solar panels, the roof of your house is the most obvious place to put them. Not all roofs were created equal, however, with some being more suitable for solar installations than others. With that in mind, here are three things you need to ask yourself before installing your solar panels.

Is your Roof in Need of Repairs?

The first thing you need to do before installing roof-top solar panels is determine whether your roof needs repairs. If your roof is very old or if there are visible signs of damage that needs to be addressed, it may not be a good idea to install solar panels until you either have a new roof installed or the damage repaired. This will prevent you from having to remove the whole installation to carry out repairs or an entire roof replacement. It is also a good idea to compare the remainder of the warranty with the warranty on the Consulting solar panels repairer is you are considering. If you can, try to align your warranties to minimize both effort and money spent.

Do you have Enough Space for Solar Panels?

Another important factor to consider when evaluating whether panels are a viable option for you is the size and shape of your roof.  These factors physically determine your ability to install solar panels. If you fail to do so, you may end up losing a considerable amount of money or be left with a less-than-satisfactory energy solution. When calculating your available roof space, only measure the area that is actually suitable for solar panels, subtracting the space taken up by the chimney, etc. Also, remember that solar panel sizes are not standardized so you will have to recalculate how many you will need depending on the brand you choose.

What Direction does your Roof Face?

On average, the UK gets approximately 1,500 hours of sunshine a year. In order to make the most of the limited fair weather, it is important to install your solar panels in the correct position.  Ideally, your panels should be installed on a south-facing roof with a tilt angle of between 35 and 40 degrees. Depending on where in the UK you reside and how much shade is cast on your roof by nearby trees, buildings, and other structures, you may be able to generate sufficient energy for your home even if your roof does face another direction. 

Installing solar panels at home can be of great benefit. It is, however, very important to do your homework first to prevent you from wasting money and being sorely disappointed.