Thanks to the thousands of people worldwide who use solar panels, solar power actually offsets more than 70 million tons of carbon dioxide each year. This is equal to planting 2 billion trees! It really isn’t that difficult to find people who stand by the solar panels.
A lot of people are unnerved by the question, “Are solar panels worth it?” If you’re one of these people, this content is essential for you. Here, you will discover some basic solar panel pros and cons that you can take into consideration. This way, you can make a more educated decision regarding whether or not to install solar panels in your home.
Pros and Cons of Using Solar Panels
There are numerous benefits to adding solar panels to your house, but they also bring with them a few drawbacks. It is crucial that you have a full comprehension of all sides of the problem before making your choice to invest in panels. Here, you’ll find some of the main trade-offs to consider when making such a decision.
In addition to these other components, you’re much more likely to enjoy your solar panels if you choose to have them installed, and you also save yourself from making a bad investment by making the wrong choice concerning solar power.
Pros
There are a number of reasons that people choose to move forward with solar power, such as the fact that it will help your average electricity bill decrease considerably. People who acquire solar panels usually find that their power expenses decrease after they set them up. In several instances, you can even get refunded for the energy produced by your solar panel system by your energy provider.
Solar panels often provide an immediate return on your investment, since you can see cost savings immediately post-installation. You won’t have to wait to receive a refund, since you’ll receive immediate returns from your utility bills. Often, you will see savings right after the first energy bill, and you’ll use the funds for faster completion of the solar-panel payments.
When you install solar panels, you can customize your home’s aesthetics so that you attract more potential buyers in the future. Solar panels will last indefinitely (at least 20 to 25 years on average), so you can still benefit from the value that they add to your property even if you’re not planning to sell in the near future.
Of course, switching to solar energy as a means to decrease your carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels is one of the most important steps you can take for the environment. If you’re looking to maximize the positive impact of your decision on the environment (remember that it’s the equivalent of planting billions of trees), it would be wise to transition to solar as quickly as possible.
Cons
Solar panels can offer many benefits, but there are potential downsides to which you should also be aware. For instance, they are expensive to install. The cost of installing solar panels is high, so many people can’t afford the initial cost. Many people have less reason to pursue solar panels because of this.
It’s true that there are subsidies and tax credits out there designed to offset the price of solar panels. In spite of these credits, though, somebody could still wind up spending more than they can afford. Another option is to lease solar panels rather than buy them. This can help you save money and still get the benefits they provide.
In exchange, you forego the additional perks and benefits offered through the installation of solar panels–for example, increased home value and a return on your initial investment–although these increase in the long term. If you are thinking about installing solar panels (by buying or renting), you may be wondering, “Will I save?” and, even more notably, “How much will I save?”
Acquiring solar power is one of the biggest investments you can make. If you invest in solar power, you’ll likely save money, but it’s unlikely to be worth it as your energy usage will likely be less. Solar energy often isn’t available in cloudy areas, lessening the benefits you see.
The results will take longer to reveal, but the investment you should make nonetheless will be smaller than if you were to set up an electricity provider in these areas. Once you know what you are getting into, this is something that should be on your mind.
Something to Notes before deciding to use Solar
You have used some pros and cons of residential solar panels to help you come to an informed decision about whether this is the right investment in the present moment for you. Do you want to know how to make the right choices when it comes to installing the panels, channeling the energy they provide, and saving as much money as possible? These suggestions are a good starting point for any homeowner headed to solar energy.
- Make sure you have a roof that is in excellent condition if the panels go on your roof.
- If you’re a member of a homeowners’ association, check to make sure that it’s permissible for you to install solar panels before moving.
- Examine energy use in the home wherever possible (mark dead or negative light bulbs, seal up gaps and cracks, etc.) so you can replace the bulbs with more efficient ones and get the best results from them.
- Know how to get connected to the electricity grid in your area.
- There are several good installers near your location. Ask them for offers and get prepared for the most affordable available.
- Identify a reputable contractor to make sure you’re working with a reliable business.
- Leasing is a relatively affordable way to cut costs.
Your attorney can rest easy, having read the contract carefully. You should fully understand the contents of it so you do not have to worry about anything you do not anticipate in the future.
Is solar energy right for your needs?
Now that you know a bit more about some common solar power pros and cons, and the correct approach to installing solar panels, it’s time to decide whether this is something you want to do. Solar panels are a massive investment. At the same time, though, they supply many considerable advantages, and a lot of people find that they’re worth the high costs.
Are you looking for more information on solar energy, wind power, or other renewable energy sources for your home? If so, please feel free to peruse the Lifestyle section of our website, as they have plenty of resources that can help.