Switching To Solar Power In Your Home!

Switching to solar power in your home can bring many benefits including lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. However, before making the switch, there are important factors to consider. One of these is cost – an average-sized UK home with a 4kW solar panel system will typically cost between £6,000-£8,000 to install. However, there are ways to save money such as green home grants and the potential savings on your electricity bills which could be roughly £270 per year. Additionally, installing solar panels could increase the value of your home.

Solar panels, also known as solar photovoltaic or PV panels, work by converting energy from sunlight into electricity. This electricity is used to power your house, and any surplus energy is exported to the grid. The amount of solar panels needed to run a house will vary based on the size of the house and electricity usage. An average-sized house (around 1500 square feet) with a typical monthly electricity bill of £60-£100 would need around 15-18 solar panels to cover the costs with solar power.

It is important to determine if a house can run on solar power alone. A solar system can indeed power an entire house. However, it is worth noting that during power outages, a battery is required for the solar system to work.

After installing solar panels, an electrical inspection from a state authority must be done within 10 days and a meter upgrade is needed. The installer will also provide necessary documents for you to give to your electricity retailer. It is important to note that solar panel installation should be done by a professional due to the high-voltage wiring, as there is a high risk of injury during the installation process and improper installation can lead to long-term problems for your home.

Cleaning solar panels about every six months can help reduce the build-up of dirt and prolong their lifespan. Solar panels have a low-maintenance nature and can last for a very long time without maintenance, with an average lifespan of 25-30 years and some even lasting up to 50 years. Over time, the panels become less efficient and may need to be replaced.

When deciding to install solar panels in your home, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits as well as the initial costs. Solar energy can help reduce your dependence on fossil fuels and the electricity grid, leading to a more sustainable future. Additionally, depending on the location and the size of your solar panel system, you may be able to generate enough electricity to completely offset your energy bills, or even earn money by selling excess electricity back to the grid.

Another important consideration is the orientation and angle of your solar panels. Your panels will generate the most energy when they are facing south and at an angle that maximizes exposure to the sun. Ideally, your solar panels should be installed on a rooftop or in an open area that receives plenty of sunlight. If you live in an area that experiences heavy shading, your solar panel system may not be as efficient.

Solar panel maintenance is minimal, and typically only involves cleaning the panels every six months or so. The lifespan of solar panels for housing is around 25-30 years, on average, and some can last up to 50 years without needing maintenance.

When it comes to installation, it’s highly recommended that you hire a professional. Solar panel installation requires experience and expertise in working with high voltage wiring, and attempting to install the panels yourself can put you and your property at risk. After installation, you will need to undergo an electrical inspection from a state authority and have a meter upgrade. The installer will provide any necessary documents for you to give to your electricity retailer.

Installing solar panels in your home can be a wise investment for the long-term. It can help reduce your energy bills, decrease your carbon footprint and can even increase the value of your home. Careful research and planning will help ensure that you make the best decision for your specific situation. Thinking of making the switch to solar power for your home? Learn more about the advantages and possibilities of Blue Raven Solar. Their expertise can help you harness the power of the sun and transition to a more sustainable energy solution for your household.