Advice on solar panels for your home

With solar panels for your home there are two different types; PV systems and thermal systems. Essentially, these will look different depending on your decision.

  • PV panels generate electricity and take the form of panels, tiles or slates
  • Thermal panels produce heat and are flat plate collectors, panels or solar tubes

Solar panels for your home are typically installed on your roof but they can be sited on the ground, more common for larger installations on commercial parks, schools or farms.

The first thing you need to realise is that solar panels for your home aren’t exactly light. Therefore, your roof needs to be strong enough to support an installation. Obviously, the best course of action to determining this would be to bring in a contractor to make a professional assessment on your roof.

Whichever system you opt for, whether it’s PV or thermal, you’ll need to ensure they’re optimally positioned on your rooftop to receive as much natural sunlight as possible.
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The best properties for solar have south or southwest facing roofs but even north facing rooftops will generate electricity and reduce your bills. The solar panel installer will also fit your panels at a tilt between 30 and 45 degrees.

For your solar panels to be as efficient as possible you’ll also want to make sure they’re not cast into shadow at certain times of the day. This could be from trees or even other buildings. If you’re in any doubt about whether solar panels are suitable for your home then compare quotes and call in a professional.

It’s always a good idea to compare three or four quotes. This gives you the opportunity to get the best price available and also ensure you find a contractor you’re happy with.

 

Facts & Figures You’ll Love To Share

  • Solar panels are now priced at a record low, providing an excellent return on investment for every buyer.
  • The feed-in tariff scheme will help homeowners earn over £500 annually with solar panels.
  • Solar panels will help to reduce your yearly electricity bills by over £100, providing over two decades of savings.
  • The generous export tariff ensures no electricity is wasted as it’s sold to the National Grid for a set price.
  • As gas and electricity prices continue to increase year-on-year, solar panels offer a way to guarantee your energy future.

Tom Crosswell

I have been managing online projects since 1999 and I'm a experienced marketeer, who is well versed in international brand management, online business strategy and developing long term relationships. Through my academic and professional background I am a specialist in generating online loyalty towards brands. My experience has taught me that ultimately business is about relationships and people. For more information see my Google+ page.