So you’re interested in solar and want to find out if your home is a good fit for a solar panel system. You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about your home to see if your home is fit for solar.

The Financing

Some may think that solar will end up costing homeowners their entire bank account. This is completely false. Those who have good credit scores are often able to buy systems without a downpayment. No matter your financial standing, there are plenty of solar financing options available.

To view our list of financing options, visit our Solar Financing Guide.

The Home

Now let’s see if your home is a good candidate for solar panels. To get a general overview, you can use Google’s Project Sunroof. Simply type in your home address and get a estimate of how much you can save a year. Of course, a professional assessment would be the most accurate way to see if your home is a good fit.

During this assessment, professionals will look at:

Your Roof

The size, pitch, direction, and any obstructions on your roof are key factors when it comes to installing solar panels. The size of your roof will determine if there is enough room for the number of panels your home will need. The pitch and direction of the roof is very important in panel placement. A south-facing roof is the most ideal for solar panels. Roofs in this direction receive the most amount of sunlight during the day. Chimneys, TV satellite dishes, and nearby trees can interfere with the placement of your panels as well.

The materials your roof is made of, as well as its remaining lifespan can determine whether your home is ready for solar or not. While solar panels can extend the life of your roof, it is expensive to replace your roof once the panels are installed. We recommend to get a new roof for older homes, or conduct a roof inspection to make sure your roof has plenty of years left for your solar panels.

Sun Exposure

Homes with a great amount of sun exposure are the most ideal for solar. Properties without any surrounding trees or tall buildings are best for solar. A professional surveyor will be able to provide a more accurate estimate based on your home’s surroundings, such as trees or other buildings.

Climate

While solar panels don’t produce as much energy in overcast climates, it is still possible to save and benefit from solar in these areas. Never be discouraged by gloomy weather! You can still be an eligible candidate for solar.

Local Regulations

If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, you’ll need to make sure solar panels are allowed. If you are renting, check with your landlord to see if installing solar panels are an option. However, whoever owns the property is responsible for contracts and installs.

And that’s all you need to know to determine if you and your home are fit for solar. Of course, this is a general overview and each home is special. It’s best to get a professional evaluation to make the best decision for your home. To get started with a free quote, contact us.