You need to compare prices, how long the job will take, etc. Some solar companies will have samples in a showroom, and some will come to your house. They will explain all about solar panels. You must have unobstructed roof where the panels will go. If one of your neighbors has solar, ask them about theirs. Keep in mind, if you get solar, and the roof leaks are covered by the panels, you'll have to remove them to repair the roof. You pay the expense for this. Remember to get everything in writing and reading it, if there's are questions, write it down. Good Luck!
The installation of solar panels is very expensive. Considering that they will be a potential source of energy only when the sun is bright enough for sustained periods of time to "charge" up the panel, one must consider the big picture in concluding whether the project is worth it.
How long are you planning to live in your present house? If not for decades to come, then the potential savings in energy will not off set the installation cost.
I see that you are from Canada. I do not know of anywhere in Canada that it is hot enough and there are enough hours of sustained daily sunlight year-round to make it worthwhile.
If you are wanting to save money on your heating/electricity bill, then the quickest way to see real returns on your monthly bills is to insulate areas of the house where hot air escapes (roof, windows, doors).
I investigated solar (in a suburb of New York City). The front of my house faces south so it seemed a good idea.... until I spoke to the company. It costs money to install but they tell you that you will get back money from the government for installing panels. Is that true of Canada as well? It is a 20 year commitment! You can transfer the contract to the new owner if they want the system or take the panels with you, but they charge to remove the panels and charge to install elsewhere. I said, "No thanks!" Maybe if I were younger and planned to stay in this house for more than 20 years I would consider it. Also, you need to invest in a storage battery (which is extra) to save the electricity you don't use immediately.
What are some tips other than setting thermostats and placing plastic on windows for an energy efficient home? I am mainly looking at green solutions for heating and ...
See more
You need to compare prices, how long the job will take, etc. Some solar companies will have samples in a showroom, and some will come to your house. They will explain all about solar panels. You must have unobstructed roof where the panels will go. If one of your neighbors has solar, ask them about theirs. Keep in mind, if you get solar, and the roof leaks are covered by the panels, you'll have to remove them to repair the roof. You pay the expense for this. Remember to get everything in writing and reading it, if there's are questions, write it down. Good Luck!
The installation of solar panels is very expensive. Considering that they will be a potential source of energy only when the sun is bright enough for sustained periods of time to "charge" up the panel, one must consider the big picture in concluding whether the project is worth it.
How long are you planning to live in your present house? If not for decades to come, then the potential savings in energy will not off set the installation cost.
I see that you are from Canada. I do not know of anywhere in Canada that it is hot enough and there are enough hours of sustained daily sunlight year-round to make it worthwhile.
If you are wanting to save money on your heating/electricity bill, then the quickest way to see real returns on your monthly bills is to insulate areas of the house where hot air escapes (roof, windows, doors).
I investigated solar (in a suburb of New York City). The front of my house faces south so it seemed a good idea.... until I spoke to the company. It costs money to install but they tell you that you will get back money from the government for installing panels. Is that true of Canada as well? It is a 20 year commitment! You can transfer the contract to the new owner if they want the system or take the panels with you, but they charge to remove the panels and charge to install elsewhere. I said, "No thanks!" Maybe if I were younger and planned to stay in this house for more than 20 years I would consider it. Also, you need to invest in a storage battery (which is extra) to save the electricity you don't use immediately.
Thanks for sharing your personal experience, and adding the details about the storage battery and charge for removal. Good points!
Nope, there is no money back from the government in Canada for installing solar panels. Nada.
20 year commitment before you see return.? Forget about it! A bet some of us are thinking that we may not even by around anymore in 20 years!
I think this will help too- http://news.energysage.com/how-to-choose-the-best-solar-panel-for-you/