15 Questions You Must Ask Before Buying Solar Panels

Using sunlight for energy is a discovery that dates back centuries. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory reports that the first use of sun power dates back to the 7th Century B.C. At this point in time, a magnifying glass was used to create fire.

Of course, solar power and harnessing the sun's energy have come a long way since using a magnifying glass. Today, you can use the sun's rays to create energy in your home through the use of solar panels. Throughout the 1950s and into today, solar power has become more and more popular. It's also become more affordable with the inclusion of tax incentives, financing, and new technology.

However, before you decide to purchase and install solar panels for your home, there are several questions you should ask. From understanding how your home will function with solar panels to researching the cost and incentives that come from utilizing solar energy, you'll want to gain a full grasp on what life with solar panels looks and feels like for you. It's also important to find the right installer, so we've even included a few questions to ask before hiring out this work.

To create this list of questions, 24/7 Tempo compiled information from various online resources. These include Angie's List (now Angi), the American Solar Energy Society, Solar United Neighbors, and the Department of Energy. Here are 15 questions you should ask before buying solar panels. (For more information on tax incentives, check out this article on why we pay taxes.)

Before beginning the process of installing solar panels, it's best to gain a general understanding of how they work. This can also help you determine if solar panels are a good fit for your home. First of all, solar panels need direct sunlight in order to absorb the sun's energy and convert it into usable electricity. You'll want to make sure there is space on or near your home where your panels can absorb this sunlight. You'll also want to consider if your home or lot includes large trees. The shade that comes from these trees can hinder your panels from receiving direct sunlight.

In most residential areas, solar panels are installed on the South side of rooftops. This means that your roof needs to be able to sustain the hardware used for installation. Before purchasing solar panels, be sure to inspect your roof. Make any necessary repairs or improvements before beginning the solar panel installation process.

If, on the other hand, you are located in a more rural area and have enough land, you can consider installing your solar panels on the ground instead. Keep in mind that you'll have to make sure you have plenty of room in the open where trees and other structures don't hinder the panels from absorbing direct sunlight.

If your roof isn't conducive to solar panels due to its condition or location, and you don't own enough property to install solar panels on the ground, there may be another option. Check and see if your area has community solar. Community solar is the installation of panels in a general geographic area. Nearby residents or businesses can then lease or purchase a portion of the panels. This would then enable you to receive a credit on your electricity bill. Community solar may not be available in all areas, however. If you're unable to install solar panels on your home directly, check to see if community solar is a viable option.

While it is possible to simply purchase solar panels and install them yourself, you'll want to consider hiring an installer for the best results. An installer is especially helpful if you don't have the experience or knowledge to take on this DIY project. An installer may also be able to include some form of warranty. Be sure to research all options and choose the one that's right for you.

In general, there are three different types of solar panels on the market today: Amorphous, polycrystalline, and monocrystalline. Each type has both pros and cons. If you're looking for cost savings upfront, you may want to consider amorphous panels. Keep in mind, however, that this type also has lower efficiency rates and tends to be less durable overall. Polycrystalline panels are the middle-of-the-road option. While they are more effective, they are also larger. Monocrystallines are the most effective but are also the most expensive to purchase.

When considering which kind to purchase, be sure to ask your installer what they sell and what they recommend. You may also want to check with other solar panel companies to see what options are available to you.

As mentioned above, there are different types of solar panels as well as numerous installers, so the price will be variable. Angi reports that the cost of solar panels and installation can range anywhere from $17,000 to $32,000. Additionally, solar panels themselves can range in cost from $4,000 to $16,000.

When determining the cost of your solar panels, be sure to do your homework. Research local and national companies and consider which kind of solar panel is the best fit for your home. Other factors that can determine cost include how much electricity you use in your home and where and how the panels are installed. Before agreeing to purchase solar panels, you may want to consider obtaining quotes from various companies so you fully understand the initial cost.

While the initial cost to install solar panels might seem high, this form of renewable energy does come with tax incentives. The U.S. Department of Energy outlines exactly who qualifies for these tax credits and how to use them to your benefit. The tax incentive is currently set to 30% of the installation cost for any solar power system installed between 2022 and 2032. Additionally, there may be other longer-lasting tax incentives for installing solar panels. Be sure to do your research and see how these incentives can be beneficial to your solar power purchase.

If you're certain solar panels are the right option for you but you're concerned about the upfront cost of installation, there are financing options available. The Clean Energy States Alliance Homeowner's Guide to Solar Financing breaks down options and what you need to know. Your installer or local banker may also be able to guide you toward the right financing for you.

As with the upfront cost, the amount of cost savings that solar panels provide is variable. In most cases, producing your own electricity with solar power is going to save you money. The exact amount will depend on your current electricity bill, which type of solar panels you choose to purchase, and where you're located. Forbes reports that families can end up saving $1,500 per year on their electricity bills. You'll want to review your past bills and ask your installer to get a better idea of your expected overall savings.

In general, once you've decided to move forward with the installation of solar panels, the turnaround time is rather short. As with many other things, this process is, of course, variable. You will want to check with your installer to ask about their time frame. Some companies may not be able to begin your project right away, leading to a lag time from the signing of your contract to when the work begins. However, once a solar panel project is started, Angi reports that it should only take a few days to get the panels installed and working.

While it's important to obtain quotes and check with various installers on their recommendations, time frame, and product knowledge, it's just as important to know, like, and trust the installer you've chosen. Many companies will have customer testimonials or recommendations you can review. This will help you understand if the installation company you've chosen to work with will provide the kind of work you're expecting.

You may also want to check on the experience level of solar panel companies. Some have been installing solar panels for decades while others are just beginning. Additionally, some national companies may use subcontractors to complete the installation process.

Should you choose to install solar panels yourself, you may be missing out on workmanship warranties. Most solar panel manufacturers will have their own warranty regardless of who installs them. For example, some of the best solar panels come with a 25-year product warranty. However, many installers include an additional warranty on top of the manufacturers'. This covers any issues that arise from the installation itself. When factoring in the costs of solar panel work, be sure to consider what warranties you'd like included.

This answer varies by manufacturer, the type of panel you decide to purchase, and many other factors. However, many sources state that solar panels can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. Solar technology is always changing and steadily improving allowing many panels to last for decades. This answer will also help you determine the long-term cost savings of installation.

When obtaining a quote from different solar panel installation companies, be sure these quotes include the following information: The type (make and model) of the panels that will be installed, kilowatt production, expected savings, and total cost both before and after incentives. There are other various factors that an installer may include in the quote. Before you commit, make sure you have as much information as possible.

If you're looking to increase the overall efficiency of your home, it might seem obvious to jump into purchasing solar panels. However, there are many other ways to improve the energy in your home before or even without solar panels. For example, do you have any appliances that can be upgraded to energy-efficient options? Does your home need additional insulation or caulking to improve the amount of heat and cool air that escape?

While solar panels are certainly an excellent way to improve the efficiency of your home and create a cleaner power source, be sure to evaluate what other changes you can make before assuming solar panels are the best and only option. Additionally, an energy-efficient home can help reduce the amount of energy you need, thereby impacting how much solar energy you'll need should you choose to install panels. (For similar reading, click here to see 15 questions to ask before buying a used smartphone.)