If you are thinking about installing solar panels on your roof, you are taking a decision towards a sustainable future just like the other 3 million Aussie’s. For most households, installing residential solar panels is a two-part process. The first question is obviously the financial part – what will be the payback period and will it really reduce our electricity bill? The second question deals with how to find a quality installer and a good quality residential panels.

In this blog, we will discuss some common questions related to installing a residential solar panel.

Is your roof suitable for installing residential solar panels?

The key is sufficient sunlight. Solar panels won’t operate on rooftops that are significantly shaded by nearby buildings or trees. Inadequate roof space, a complicated roof design, or the age and slope of your roof are some other obstacles. Look up for your area’s Sun Number score. On a scale of one to 100, the Sun Number rates the suitability of a building’s rooftop. The better a home is adapted for solar power, the higher the number.

So, will it matter if your roof is old?

Yes. If your roof is made of a more durable material, like tile or slate, it should be less than 10 years old or still have at least 10 years of life left in it. Additionally, it should be in excellent to good shape. Why? Because it costs money to remove and then reinstall the panels and framing if you need to replace your roof for any reason other than insured storm damage.

Are all residential solar panels similar?

Although they function similarly, solar panels’ efficiency—or how much sunlight they can convert into energy—is where they differ. High-efficiency panels often cost more up front but generate more electricity over the course of the system. More effective solar panels can be your best option if your roof is smaller. High-efficiency panels can be chosen by those with larger roofs in order to use fewer of them altogether. Customers should search for panels that are at least 20% efficient.

Are panels equally efficient in every climate?

Solar panels are capable of converting solar energy into power even at temperatures below freezing. This is due to the fact that solar panels only capture light energy from the sun, not heat. A solar panel will produce power as long as sunshine is shining on it. The main causes of any decreased productivity throughout the winter will be the amount of snowfall and the shortening of the daytime.

In addition, through the clouds and rain, the sun continues to provide solar panels with light. Although solar panels produce the greatest energy under direct sunshine, they can also produce energy from diffuse or indirect sunlight (radiation).

Solar panels installed on your roof are built to endure hail, snow, wind, and heavy rain. A solar panel can, at the very least, withstand being pummeling by hailstones up to an inch in diameter. It’s likely that your roof will be harmed first by any weather event that breaks panels.

What questions to ask your installer and how much time does it take?

We will give you a basic idea as to what questions you can ask your installer.

For how long have you been operating in this industry?
Do you have your insurance, workers compensation, and contractor liability?
Who will be responsible for the repair if any damage occurs during the installation process?
Is there any fees included for connecting the system to the grid?
What is the final quote?
The installation often takes two days or longer. Each step in the installation of solar panels typically requires:

• An hour for roof anchoring.
• An hour for mounting of solar.
• 2-3 hours for installing solar panels.
• An hour for installing solar inverter.
• An hour for evaluating the entire system.

This article should have provided you with a clear understanding of what to anticipate when installing solar panels in your home. Contact TGR right away if you’re thinking about installing solar panels in your home. Our team is always available to provide you with a free quote and address any of your installation-related inquiries.