Going solar is fun if it is done in the right way. The very first step, after you make your decision of going Solar, is to ask for quotes from different solar installers.
Before moving ahead, let me remind you of the important components of a basic solar power system. These are as follows:
A quality solar panelThe panels are the first interface between the Sun and your electrical appliances. They convert solar energy into electrical energy. They will remain under blazing sun and harsh weather conditions throughout their life. Therefore, the solar panels have to be durable and efficient in every aspect. You should look at the panel which is made of the best of materials. Generally, manufacturers who understand the material science in making a solar panel durable have accreditation to ISO standards for manufacturing with advanced quality assurance. But do keep in mind the quality of the solar panels and the warranties the brand is offering to you. Initially, a cheap panel may cost you less but will increase the maintenance cost and will become a headache for a lifetime. Therefore, look for those ISO certified brands which have a reputation in the market with good reviews about them. It may be a bit costly but can provide you smooth electricity for decades. If your installer gives the solar quote with the brand name of the panel mentioned in it. Then check its specifications by yourself on the internet by looking for the following technical terms: Power rating: A higher power rating means that panels are more effective in producing power (Most solar panels are in the range 200 Watts – 350 Watts) Power tolerance: It tells how the output of the solar panel might differ from its nameplate rating under ideal conditions. For example, a 300-watt panel with 5% power tolerance means that its output power may vary from 285 watts to 315 watts under ideal conditions. Generally, a narrower power tolerance range in preferred as it represents more certainty and fewer variations in the output power. Solar panel efficiency: This term shows the effectiveness of the panel in converting the solar energy into electricity. A high-efficiency panel can produce more electricity than another panel of similar size. The high-efficiency panels are preferred if you have limited roof space and large electricity bills. The industry average is 16%-18% Temperature coefficient: Do you know that the heat actually degrades the performance of the solar panels? The temperature coefficient tells how the output of the panel decreases with every degree rise in the temperature. The panels which are less sensitive to temperature are preferred by those who live in the hotter climate. Solar panel quality: Look for brands which are ISO (International Organisation for Standardization) 9000 certified. The ISO has created a quality assurance standard for manufacturing and those companies which comply by these standards are certified as ISO 9000 series companies. Durability: The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61215 reliability standard evaluates the durability of the panel through stress simulation of the real weather conditions. The panels which meet and pass this criterion are certified as IEC 61215. Look for this certification while finalizing the panel for your roof. Performance and material warranties: The manufacturer’s warranty is a very important point to consider while choosing a panel for your roof. In case, the panel problem occurs post installation then a strong and long warranty will help you in getting the necessary service and support. There are two types of warranties one is Performance warranty and other is Material warranty.
System DesigningThe one side of the system designing includes the sizing of the solar panels and all the equipment attached to it. The other aspect is physically installing the system on the roof. The installers may offer different system sizing for the same energy requirement. Do not get confused by different sizing quotes rather inquire about the basis of the sizing. The good system designer will consider the following points:
Compare the payback period and the return of investment offered by the solar installers. A better payback period should be your choice. But do remember that it should not be unrealistic to attract customers. The next aspect is actually installing the system on the rooftop. Keep the following points in mind:
Reputation of the InstallerYou need to check the reputation of the solar installers by reading the reviews about it in the market. Keep the following points in mind while choosing an installer:
ConclusionComparing quotes can become easy if you know beforehand the important points for choosing the right installer. However, it is difficult to match all the parameters but if more than 70% aspects are covered then you should select that installer and go ahead with a solar installation on the rooftop to enjoy the smooth electricity for decades. Related Articles:
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