How To Shop For Solar Energy Systems

Since solar energy systems are a long-term and substantial investment, buying a solar energy system can be both an exciting and an intimidating process. However, we have a few tips that will help guide you through the buying process.

1. Get a Reputable Solar Dealer

When picking a solar energy dealer, make sure to get recommendations from friends, families, neighbors or colleagues who had solar energy systems installed on their homes. If you are the first person you know to install a solar energy system, then make sure to look around and compare installation costs, check the dealers knowledge of the technology and get feedback regarding installation timelines. The dealer you chose should be certified by NABCEP.

2. Manufacturer’s Warranty and Certification

The type and length of warranty can tell you many things about the technology. A reputable manufacturer that stands behind its product will offer a longer warranty and make it less difficult for the consumer to make warranty claims. Checking the rate of warranty claims is also a good way to measure a solar energy systems value and durability.

The solar panels should be tested by an external, independent laboratory to have met their advertised specifications. Some important specifications include, TUV Rheinland Certification ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 for manufacturing and TUV IEC 61215 for performance level. This is particularly important because if a solar energy system under performs then you loose money.

3. Make Sure a Solar Energy System is Right for You

Solar energy systems are right for most homes, but there are a few limiting factors.

• Solar energy systems have optimal performance levels on south-facing area
• Solar energy systems need unobstructed space that do not have shading areas

If you are considering a solar energy system in order to increase utility savings and to decrease your carbon footprint, we also recommend taking additional energy efficiency measures for maximum impact.

If you are considering replacing your roof in the next five years, then you may want to add your solar energy system at that time.

4. Take Advantage of Incentives

There are many incentive programs, both at a utility level and a government level, that are being offered for installing a solar energy system. When you choose a solar energy system, you need to make sure that it applies for all the incentives available.

5. Type of Solar Energy System

There are many types of solar energy systems depending on your needs and requirements. Your roof size compared to the amount of energy you want to produce will determine the type of solar panel you should install. Some people prefer the more aesthetic black-framed solar panel while others prefer modules made for limited space solar panels. Other factors important in determining the type of solar module is durability and high lifetime yield. The roof slope and materials will determine what type of mounting system you will need.

6. Solar Energy Mounting Systems

When buying a solar energy system, most consumers are only conscerned with the PV panel and not the entire system. However it is important to consider the entire system. For instance, some solar energy mounting systems are designed to offer cooling air flow under the modules with helps achieve peak energy production. Other factors that are important in a mounting system is installation time, durability and design flexibility.