(BPT) - With more Americans going green than ever before, you’ve probably already started thinking about doing it yourself. Perhaps you’ve increased your recycling efforts, started using more energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs or upgraded to greener technology options. Chances are, you’ve thought about using solar energy to power your home, but don’t know where to start.
It may be easier than you think to have solar panels installed in your home. Here are the steps involved in going solar.
1. Check your roof. Because putting solar panels on your home involves a roof installation, your first step should be checking the condition of your roof, to see if you need any repairs or if you must replace your roof before installation. Having a solid foundation for solar panels is crucial to avoid problems down the road.
2. Gather information. Research issues around solar panels that you need to know more about. For example, the climate where you live can impact what kind of solar panels you need. If you live in a warmer part of the country, you may need panels with a good heat coefficient. You’ll also want to consider if you’ll be selling any electricity produced back to your local utility or whether you should invest in an energy storage solution for your home. Find out what incentives or rebates you may qualify for through your state or local government or your energy company.
3. Find an installer. Research reputable companies in your area so you’ll be confident that your installation is done correctly. Be wary of salespeople who show up at your door trying to persuade you to make an instant decision. Reputable installation companies will be registered with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau. Get installation quotes from a few companies so you can compare costs. An installer will want to visit your home to assess the state and orientation of your roof and to see how much shade it gets. The installation company will also recommend solar products, based on your budget and needs.
4. Choose solar panels. Look for efficient, reliable all-weather solar panels from a company you already know and trust, like LG Electronics. LG NeON 2 solar panels with Cello Technology have a double-sided structure, enabling them to capture light and generate energy from both the front and back. When the angle of light is lower during mornings and evenings — times homeowners are most likely to be home — LG NeON 2 solar panels will generate more energy than other brands’ products that only capture light from the front. These solar panels provide the highest possible value for budget-conscious customers and are backed by an industry leading 25-year product warranty and an enhanced performance warranty, backed by LG Electronics. High-quality solar panels like these are low maintenance and have a very low failure rate, so you likely won't have any problems once your system is up and running.
5. Arrange installation. Most solar installations take from one to three days, depending on your situation. Your installation company will ensure that electrical wiring is installed to connect the general power system to your electrical panel and will prepare your roof so that racking may be attached. Once the panels are set in place, inverters are then connected to the panels. Your solar panel installation will need to be inspected by your local government as well as your electrical company, to be sure that everything is correctly wired and installed to meet electrical codes and ensure the safety of the installation. Once the inspections are completed (which can take longer depending on your area), your solar system can go live.
Having solar panels installed may seem like a huge undertaking, but in reality, it will be well worth it in terms of the cost savings on your household electricity bills and the impact it will have on the environment. Make sure you choose an installation company and solar products that are high quality and that you feel comfortable with, and your project will be successful. Then all you need to do is let the sun love your home.
To learn more about solar technology for your home, please visit LG.com/US/Solar.
