Thinking about going solar? Whether you’re aiming to lower your carbon footprint, save on energy bills, or boost your home’s value, switching to solar may be worth exploring. To help you navigate the process, here’s everything you should consider before making the move.
1. Is Your Home Suitable for Solar Panels?
Roof space: You’ll need around 200 square feet of clear roof—avoid chimneys, vents, or skylights.
Orientation: South, southeast, and southwest roofs receive the most sun. North-facing roofs are less efficient.
Shade: Trees or nearby structures can limit sunlight. However, strategic panel placement can still make solar work in partially shaded areas.
As Sunrun’s Miranda Barnard points out, “Shade doesn’t block solar entirely. A custom panel layout ensures optimal power generation.” And keep in mind: panel quantity hinges more on your energy usage than the home size itself.
2. What’s the Cost and Savings Potential?
A typical residential solar system ranges from $15,000 to $25,000—before applying incentives. Through 2025, the federal solar tax credit covers 26% of this amount. Combined with local rebates and more, your costs can significantly drop.
Estimated savings: California homeowners can save ~$40,600 over 20 years. In New York, savings average ~$35,400.
Estimate for your home: Try Google’s Project Sunroof to assess real-time solar savings in your area.
3. Does Your Climate Support Solar?
Sunshine matters—places like Arizona enjoy abundant solar potential. Cloudier regions may still benefit, though you might need high-efficiency panels or more of them to compensate. In many cases, adjusted design still yields positive returns.
4. Choosing the Right Panels
Your roof type and energy goals will guide your panel choice:
Monocrystalline: Highly efficient, sleek appearance, more expensive.
Polycrystalline: Affordable, blue-toned, slightly lower efficiency.
Thin-film: Lightweight and compact, but shorter lifespan (~15 years).
Solar shingles: Discreet but costlier and less powerful.
Tracking mounts: Automatically follow the sun for higher output—premium investment.
5. Does Your Roof Need an Upgrade First?
If you’re replacing your roof soon, factor that into your solar plans. Panels add weight, and some manufacturer warranties might not cover prior installations. A quick roof checkup could save headaches down the road.
6. Will You Stay Connected to the Grid?
On-grid systems keep you connected to the utility network—useful when sunlight is limited. Most solar providers manage the required permits and paperwork for you.
Off-grid systems rely on batteries and generators. Although costlier upfront, they offer energy independence—just ensure you work with an experienced installer.
7. What Happens to Extra Energy?
Thanks to net metering, excess electricity can get sent back to the grid—usually in exchange for utility bill credits. Off-grid setups store surplus energy in batteries for later use.
8. How Long Does Solar Coverage Last?
Solar systems typically come with two warranties:
Performance warranty: Guarantees power output for 25–30 years.
Product warranty: Covers manufacturing or material issues for 15–25 years.
Always check the fine print—coverage varies by manufacturer and system components.
9. Buy or Lease?
Buying offers maximum financial benefits, including incentives and property value gains—but comes with higher upfront costs.
Leasing or PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) options provide lower upfront costs and maintenance perks, though you might not benefit directly from tax credits or long-term savings.
10. What If You Move?
For short-distance moves, some installers offer solar panel relocation services.
For long-distance moves, evaluate cost, local climate, and local solar incentives—or consider selling your solar-equipped home as a premium listing.
Final Thoughts
Switching to solar is exciting, eco-friendly, and often budget-smart—but it comes with questions and decisions. From roof quality to panel type and installation options, each factor matters.
Need help navigating quotes, comparing options, or projecting savings? Homezies is here to help—use our directory of trusted professionals and tools to make your solar journey smoother.