Quick Guide For Going Solar

Last week we talked about the basics of home solar systems, discussing solar panels (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and amorphous), inverters, grid-tied or off-grid, and a few additional topics.

This week we'll take a brief segue for the impatient and get you jump started onto your solar journey.  This is the bare bones steps necessary to get a solar system on your house as soon as possible.

But be sure to check back next week where we'll arm you with more information, including design considerations, and system reliability and longevity information, and most importantly, answer the question posed in part I - How do you make your power meter run backwards so that the power companies are paying you!?

Where Do I Begin With Home Solar Installation?

The entire process of installing residential solar can seem daunting. But as with so many things in life - do a little planning and take it one step at a time, and it will work out great. Do not rush in to solar!

To help with your planning, here is a handy checklist of major milestones and considerations.

A Complicated Roof Means a Complicated Solar Design

1. Consider what your goals are.

   Is your goal to "take the edge off" your bills?  Or to be entirely self sufficient off the grid?  Most people want something in between - to find a balance of optimal payback time and power production?

2. What is your budget?

   This fits hand in hand with the above, and may dictate the design.  If your goals exceed your budget, you can consider having your system designed so you can add to it in the future.

3. Research, research, research.

   Knowledge is your friend, and if you are looking at a typical PV system, you are looking at a few thousand dollars spent.  Arm yourself with the knowledge to ask the right questions. This is especially important if you have a potentially complicated installation, such as a complicated roof configuration.

4. Have at least three solar companies provide estimates.

   Be sure to find experienced companies that have been operating at least a few years, and get references from them.   They should be able to get up on your roof and take measurements.  It may take a few days before they provide a full written estimate.

5. Spend time asking the installers questions.

   They should provide you a rough drawing of the panel layout, information on the inverter manufacturer, specs of the panels, and warranty information.  Ask about shading concerns, maintenance.  Ask about differences in designs between your three estimates and why theirs is better.

6. Consider the financials, incentives, and rebates.

   Various cities, states, and of course the federal government offer tax rebates for solar installations.  Many utilities offer rebates as well - check out your power company's website to see.  The solar installers should be able to find that information for you and work with the utility seamlessly.

7. Pull the trigger.

   Where I live solar is in great demand and it can take 4-6 months to get a system installed.  The installers are backed up, the utilities take awhile to give approvals, and it just takes time.  Be aware of these delays.

Next Week

Next week I'll continue our discussion about residential solar systems, looking at how to sell power back to your power company, design considerations, and more. And if you haven't seen it, be sure to check out part 1 of the series.