Switching to solar power is a smart, eco-friendly choice that can save money and reduce your environmental footprint. But before you dive into solar installation, please hold on for a second and think:
Do you really know each component of it? What kinds of information if you provided first that can make the purchasing and installation easier? Here are five key things you should consider:
Firstly, you need to know your daily electricity usage. Start by checking your monthly electricity bills to calculate your average daily energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh). This will help determine how many solar panels you’ll need. If you need, there is a brief calculation step of solar panels for your reference.
And then knowing this information will allow you have a clear mind of what types of solar power system more suitable for you and save the communication costs and time in the next step.
Secondly, when calculating battery usage, LeapPower recommends to take the factors in any lifestyle changes that may affect electricity use into counting, such as the purchase of an electric vehicle or the addition of new appliances, providing more flexibility for you to use the solar power system.
After knowing energy need, understanding your needs and the components of the product beforehand plays an important role in the subsequent communication of product types, attributes and functions. Just like the solar power system, you need to know the elements clearly.
Solar Panels: These are the core of solar system, capturing sunlight to generate electricity. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient but more expensive, while polycrystalline and thin-film panels are cheaper options with slightly lower efficiency.
Inverter: This component converts DC power from the panels into AC power for your home.
Battery Storage: While optional, batteries allow you to store excess power for nighttime or during outages. This can be essential if you’re aiming for grid independence.
Mounting System: This secures your panels to your roof or the ground, depending on the installation type.
At this part, the author only makes a brief introduction of the components, you are batter to get more details information if you really plan to install a solar system. You can consult some professional experts or move to our previous post which sum up the basic knowledge of solar power system.
Of course, there are situations where you've already installed a solar power system, but you need to add another component or a part of the system is broken and you need to replace it. If you‘re in this situation, you need to provide more information about your solar power system.
Therefore, in communication with the supplier, you need to clearly explain to them what your needs are, and then what part you need to replace, and also the specifications of items you have used before, and so on. This will make it easier for your supplier to provide you with a good solution.
Please pay attention to this part, because improper use and re-install can put you and your family in danger.
Grid-tied and off-grid solar systems both harness solar energy, but they operate differently and are suited to different needs. If you are inquiring about a solar power system, the supplier will also ask you which one you want.
Here are the brief definitions.
Grid-Tied System: Connected to the public electricity grid, allowing you to draw electricity from the grid when solar power isn’t available, such as at night or during cloudy days.
Does not require batteries, as you can draw power from the grid when needed. Any excess solar energy produced can be sent back to the grid for credit in many regions (through a process called net metering).
Off-Grid System: Completely independent of the power grid, relying entirely on solar power and battery storage. This setup is self-sufficient but may require backup power sources for low-sunlight periods.
Batteries add to the system’s upfront and maintenance costs but are essential for energy independence.
Maybe more people prefer to the off-grid solar system, but we suggest you to select based on your need, decides which one is more suitable.
It is well known that solar power system can save money and reduce your environmental footprint, but you also need to know the extra maintenance fee. There are two main parts:
Panel Cleaning: Dust, dirt, and snow can block sunlight, reducing panel efficiency. Regular cleaning, especially in dusty or snowy areas, helps maintain optimal performance.
Battery and Inverter Replacement: Batteries (if included) typically last 5-10 years, while inverters last around 10-15 years. Factor these replacement costs into your budget.
Having a clear mind of maintenance and replace fee of solar power system, is vital for you to install and use it in the future. After the previous step, let us keep going on to the final step.
Finding a professional and reliable partner can avoid a lot of subsequent problems. So when looking for a partner , get multiple estimates to compare prices, equipment, warranties, and service contracts. This will help you choose a reliable and fairly priced installer.
What's more, you should look for certified installers with good reviews. Verify their licenses and insurance to ensure a quality installation and protect yourself from liability.
what can we do for you? LeapPower always focuses on offering high quality service and after-sales maintenance. If you have any questions about installing solar power system, please feel free to contact us.
In the end, by follow these steps of outlined guide, by planning and considering these details, hoping you can maximize the benefits of your solar power system and enjoy clean energy for years to come.
