Once you decided to get solar panels for your home and considered the initial solar panel cost of purchase and installation, you may wonder, if solar panels do have to go on the roof of your home, or can they be installed somewhere else. The answer is they can be installed anywhere. However, there are many benefits of using an existing structure.

For maximum performance, a south facing slope angled at 30 degrees is needed. This area should be free from any shade or tree limbs. Height also comes in handy when you are using panels to heat water and run this back into the house. Sounds like the roof is the place!

Since water tanks are already situated somewhere near the top of the house, placing the panels on the roof will cut down on solar panel cost. This requires less insulation and piping.

Installation on the roof will be free from most four legged pests that can damage the panel surface. Again, make sure there are no overhanging branches for roosting birds – their droppings can severely reduce collection.

To cut down further on solar panel cost, choose an area on the roof that can be accessed easily from the ground for occasional maintenance and cleaning. Since there are very few moving parts, you won’t have to do this often.

It is important to clarify between the two main types of solar panel installations.

Straight panels, also known as flat plate collection systems take up much less space than the electricity generating photovoltaic cells. If you are trying to minimize solar panel cost this is the way to go. They only provide heated water, but this will still be a welcome contribution towards the monthly utility bill.

Why pay a premium for pre-made solar panels? With the help of the DIY Solar guide, building your own has never been easier!

Most average home roofs have enough space to house the larger photovoltaic cells. From an aesthetic standpoint, solar panels will not adversely affect your neighbors view any more than the normal roofing. Also, there is no real need to add any structural load bearing support to the house. This should also help reduce your calculations for solar panel cost.

If you are considering adding an installation of solar panels to a current build, it should add very little cost to the  overall total. Within a year, the system should pay for itself, as the savings from this ecofriendly power source more than cover the initial solar panel cost.

For those with flat roofs, you can still take advantage of the suns energy, you just need a simple frame to be constructed. Remember to properly insulate the back of your panels to keep the warmth in and the cold out.

It is a good idea to consult a professional installer once you have decided to go ahead with solar panel installation. As with any serious investment, shop around and check references.

Even those who are skilled enough to undertake the project themselves should adhere to this rule. It will only add a minimal expense to the total solar panel cost. After everything has been assembled, the installation will be done in a matter of hours. My advice to homeowners everywhere: use the general guidelines offered here to build motivation and interest, and then turn the dream into a reality and start saving money!

Take advantage of tax breaks and government incentives while doing your part for mother earth – build your own solar panel array today!

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