The demand for residential solar Melbourne systems has never been higher, and more and more homeowners are looking to install residential solar energy systems of their own in order to save money on their monthly utility bills. Because these systems are relatively new to the market, however, many people have questions about how they work and whether or not they're worth the cost.
If you're looking into installing a residential solar energy system of your own, here are some essential points to keep in mind before you do so.
How Long Will My System Last?
One of the most important factors to consider when installing a residential solar system is its lifespan. Solar panels typically last between 25 and 30 years, while the inverter—the component that converts DC power from the panels into AC power that can be used by your home—needs to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.
Batteries have an even shorter lifespan, typically lasting 5 to 10 years. With this in mind, it's important to factor in the replacement costs of each component when deciding whether or not to install a solar system.
Will I Get My Investment Back?
When you install a solar panel system, you're making an investment. The return on that investment comes in the form of savings on your energy bill. How much you save depends on the size and efficiency of your system, the amount of sunlight your home receives, and the price of electricity in your area. In most cases, it takes about seven to eight years to recoup your initial investment.
What About Government Incentives?
There are a few key things to keep in mind before installing residential solar Melbourne, especially if you're hoping to take advantage of government incentives.
First, find out what incentives are available in your area. There may be federal, state, and local incentives that can help offset the cost of installation.
Second, make sure your home is suitable for solar panels. You'll need a south-facing roof that isn't shaded by trees or other buildings.
Third, get an estimate of how much electricity you use so you can size your system appropriately.
Fourth, understand the process of connecting to the grid and net metering. This is usually handled by your solar installer, but it's good to know what's involved.
Should I Go It Alone or Hire an Installer?
If you're considering signing a lease for your home's solar panels, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, solar leases typically last 20 years, so you'll be locked into that payment for the duration of the lease.
Secondly, solar leases typically have an escalator clause, which means your payments will increase over time.
Thirdly, if you sell your home during the term of the lease, you'll likely have to transfer the lease to the new owner or buy out the remainder of the lease.
Fourth, if your roof needs repairs or replacement during the term of the lease, you may be responsible for those costs.
Finally, make sure you understand all the terms and conditions of the lease before signing on the dotted line.
Conclusion
Overall, installing residential solar Melbourne is a great way to save money on your energy bill and do your part to reduce your carbon footprint. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before making the decision to install solar panels.
First, be sure to do your research and get multiple quotes from different solar companies.
Second, make sure your roof is in good condition and will be able to support the weight of the panels.
Third, be aware of any potential shading issues that could affect the efficiency of the panels.
