If you live in an area that experiences sunlight throughout most of the year, it makes sense to install solar panels on your home and take advantage of all that sunlight. Solar panels can help lower your electricity bill and reduce your personal energy footprint.

Tip #1: Make Sure You Have the Right Roof

First, you will want to make sure you have the right roof for a solar panel.

You will need to have at least one side of your roof that has either southwest or south exposure. That type of exposure is necessary to maximize the exposure to sunlight and allow the greatest amount of energy to be generated. You also need to have enough square footage to install the solar panels.

The pitch of the roof matters as well. If the pitch of the roof is too extreme, it can be difficult to install solar panels. Your roof doesn't have to be flat, but it does need a safe pitch.

Additionally, your roof needs to be in good condition. You will not want to install a solar panel on a roof at the end of its life.

Tip #2: Know Your Energy Usage

Second, you are going to want to know how much energy your home uses on average. You can figure this out by adding up how many kilowatts of energy you are billed for on each of your bills over the last ten months.

Some utility companies may also show you how much energy you have used in the last twelve months via an online app.

This will allow you to determine what type of solar panel array your home needs. Ideally, you want your solar panel array to provide you with enough solar energy to provide for your yearly solar needs.

Tip #3: Consider Future Electrical Energy Usage

Third, you need to consider how much energy you plan on using in the future. If you plan on adding items that will consume more energy, such as a hot tub or an electric vehicle, you may want to install an extra panel or two to help you offset that future energy usage as well.

Tip #4: Selecting the Right Solar Contractor

Fourth, you need to make sure you select the right contractor. You want to hire an experienced contractor willing to listen to your solar needs and understand your budget needs. You want to work with a contractor who will back up their work with a solid warranty and high-quality work.

When it comes to installing solar panels on your roof, you need to make sure your roof can support solar panels. You need to know your current energy usage and future energy plans to determine how many solar panels you need.

Reach out to a solar panel installation service to learn more.