As more homeowners recognize the benefits of solar energy, making the switch to solar power has never been more accessible. However, the journey from deciding to go solar to enjoying the benefits of your own solar installation can be complex and confusing. At Green Rack Solar, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Ohio and Pennsylvania navigate this process, and we’re here to share what you need to know before you start.
Understanding Your Energy Needs
Before diving into solar, it’s important to understand your household’s energy consumption. Reviewing your past electricity bills can give you a clear picture of your average energy use based on the past 12-24 months. This will help determine the size of the solar system you’ll need to meet your energy demands. Sometimes, the space available for solar limits the amount of energy you can produce. Other times, your energy usage will dictate the practical maximum size of a system. In any case, solar panels are an investment, so sizing your system appropriately ensures the best results to meet your personal goals.
Assessing Your Home’s Solar Potential
Not every roof is ideal for solar panels, but that doesn’t mean solar isn’t an option. The orientation, shading, and size of your roof play crucial roles in determining how much sunlight your panels can capture. Our team at Green Rack Solar conducts thorough assessments to ensure your home is suitable for a solar installation. If roof space is limited or shaded, ground-mounted systems might be a viable alternative.
Understanding the Financials
The upfront cost of purchasing a solar system can be overwhelming, but it’s important to view it as a long-term investment. With federal tax credits and financing options, the initial cost can be significantly reduced or eliminated. Solar loan and lease/PPA options can be utilized in both Ohio and Pennsylvania to create positive cash flow in the first month of ownership. Our experts can help you navigate these financial decisions to make the most of your solar investment.
Choosing the Right Solar Partner
The company you choose to install your solar system can make a massive difference in the experience you have and the results you see. At Green Rack Solar, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality installations and exceptional customer service at affordable prices. Our team handles everything from design and permitting to installation and maintenance, ensuring a seamless transition from curiosity, to action, to energy independence.
The Installation Process
Once you decide to go solar and get signed on, there are several key steps in the implementation process to know. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:
- System Design: Customizing a solar solution that meets your energy needs and fits your home’s architecture.
- Site Survey: A thorough in-person technical evaluation of your home. Confirming that the roof will bear the weight, taking measurements of the roof tilt and direction, and noting the distance of the path from rooftop to breaker box and from there to your meter.
- Permitting: Handling all necessary permits and paperwork with your utility company and local government entity.
- Installation: Our skilled team of installers build your solar system and ensure that it is operating correctly. Depending on the characteristics of your home and system size and complexity, this may take only a single day or multiple days to finish.
- Activation: After installation, your system is inspected and given “Permission to Operate” (PTO) from your utility company. Now you’re ready to start generating clean energy!
Enjoying the Benefits of Solar
Once your solar system is up and running, you’ll start seeing the benefits almost immediately. Lower electricity bills, increased home value, and the satisfaction of reducing your carbon footprint are just a few of the advantages. Plus, with Green Rack Solar’s ongoing support, you can rest easy knowing your system is performing at its best. Talk to your representative about what maintenance and service plans we offer that could be a fit for your needs.
Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?
If you’re considering a home solar installation, now is a great time to take the first step. Contact Green Rack Solar for a free consultation, and let us help you turn your home into a hub of clean, renewable energy.
