If you’re in the market for a new home, you have numerous options when it comes to solar systems. There’s a wide variety of different brands and models to choose from, making the process of decision making somewhat difficult. But since you’ll be spending a lot of money on a device that will provide endless power for your home, it’s important to take the time to do some research before buying. This article will go over some of the most important things you should know before purchasing a solar system for your home.
Features
When shopping for a solar system, one of the primary things you’ll want to consider is the features. Look at the specifications and see what is and isn’t included. For example, many rooftop systems come with a battery that stores energy during the day. Since power is generated when the sun is shining, having a battery ensures that the system can still provide power during the times when it’s not sunny. That said, if your goal is generating power during peak hours only, there are smaller solar systems that don’t include a battery.
Other important features to look for in a solar system are:
Size
The size of the system you’ll need will depend on your location. The larger the system, the more energy it will produce. However, the larger the system, the more difficult it will be to transport and install. For a smaller footprint and easier maneuvering, look for a smaller system.
Weight
The weight of the system is also important to consider. While more energy is produced with heavier systems, they are also more likely to break if impacted by an automobile or other heavy objects. One way to prevent this is with ballast. Many solar systems include a lead ballast that adds extra weight and creates an inert environment within the device. This prevents it from becoming damaged if dropped or impacted by objects traveling at high speeds.
Durability
It’s important to consider the durability of the system when shopping for a solar system. After all, these are machines that will be creating lots of energy for your home, and it’s highly likely that you’ll be using them every day. So it’s important to find a solar system that can handle high temperatures as well as the elements.
Repairs
All things considered, it’s important to purchase a solar system that can be easily repaired. As previously mentioned, these will be powerful devices that you’ll be using every day, so it’s important to find a manufacturer that is confident enough in their product that they’ll be willing to service your device should it malfunction.
Warranty
Finally, it’s important to purchase a solar system that comes with a warranty. Since these are sophisticated devices that contain sensitive electronics, it’s important to ensure that they’re built to last and that you’re covered should they malfunction or break down during installation or operation. Many warranties also cover parts and labor for a certain period of time, so you’re not caught off-guard should something happen.
While it may be difficult to know where to begin with so many different options when buying a solar system, by taking the time to do some research and know what to look for, you’ll be able to find a unit that meets your needs and budget. And what’s more, if you do end up with a malfunction, you’ll be able to contact the manufacturer to get it fixed or approved by an outside service provider.