Installing solar panels on your home can significantly reduce your energy costs. However, there are some little-known hacks that can help you maximize savings. As someone looking to slash my energy costs, I have done extensive research on solar panel optimizations. Here are the most impactful solar panel hacks I have discovered.
Shop Around for the Best Solar Panel Deal
The first step is finding the best solar panel deal. Many homeowners make the mistake of going with the first company they find. To find the optimal deal:
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Get quotes from at least 3 local solar companies.
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Compare the solar panel brands, warranties, and production guarantees.
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Check reviews and complaints with the Better Business Bureau.
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Ask about applicable rebates, tax credits, and incentives.
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Calculate the payback period for each quote based on estimated energy savings.
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Negotiate to get the best deal on high-quality solar panels.
Shopping around for solar panels saved me thousands in installation costs and got me a better system.
Calculate Your Optimal Solar Panel System Size
Another key hack is calculating the ideal system size for your specific energy usage. A common mistake is sizing solar panels based on roof space rather than energy needs. To optimize:
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Review the past year of utility bills to analyze your average energy usage.
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Account for future increases in energy needs from electric vehicles, appliances, etc.
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Use free solar calculator tools online to determine the optimal solar panel system size.
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Start smaller if uncertain about future energy needs. Additional panels can be added later.
Properly sizing my system to match my energy usage helped maximize savings while minimizing upfront costs.
Leverage Local Incentives and Rebates
One of the biggest hacks is taking advantage of local solar incentives and rebates. These can slash installation costs by thousands. Be sure to research and apply for:
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Federal solar tax credits - these provide a 26% tax credit for systems installed in 2022-2023.
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State and city solar incentives - these vary greatly, so do your homework.
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Utility company rebates - many utilities offer generous solar rebates.
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Low-interest solar loans from local credit unions.
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Grants from solar advocacy organizations.
Thanks to my research, I qualified for a $3,000 state solar rebate and $1,000 utility cash incentive!
Install During the Fall or Winter
Here is a simple trick - install solar panels during the fall or winter months to potentially save money. Why?
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Solar companies are less busy so may offer discounts.
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Cooler weather allows panels to operate more efficiently.
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You avoid peak summer demand charges from utilities.
I saved 7% on my install by having it done in early November. A small hack with big savings!
Angle Panels Properly for Optimal Sun Exposure
Optimizing the angle and orientation of your solar panels is a key to maximizing energy production.
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For fixed rooftop systems, tilt panels at your latitude angle to capture the most sunlight throughout the year.
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Angle panels south to maximize exposure. West-facing can work as well.
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Use roof angles and concentrators to increase sunlight on panels.
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Avoid shade from trees, chimneys, etc. to ensure full sun access.
Adjusting my panel angle for my latitude gave me a 9% increase in solar energy production!
With these solar panel hacks, I've been able to dramatically slash my energy costs. Let me know if you have any other questions!