There are many factors to consider when selecting and sizing a solar heating system for your home. First, check to make sure that your city laws and homeowners association allow you to install solar. Local covenants may prevent installation altogether, or simply restrict the options for your design. Keep in mind that many people have successfully challenged these covenants.

Most solar systems will provide between 40 and 80 percent of a home’s heating needs. Anything less than 40 percent will not be cost effective. Well-planned solar systems coupled with sufficient home insulation can provide the majority of a home’s heating needs, often significantly reducing the need for supplemental heating systems. However, most building codes require that homes have a backup heating system for times when the solar system cannot provide enough heat.

You must choose whether your home is best suited for solar panels or integrated photovoltaic materials (arrays that are molded into building materials). Solar panels are best used in retrofits, while integrated photovoltaic materials work best in new construction. Ask yourself what type of heating you desire. Solar systems can be used to produce electricity and to heat water.  Are you looking to supply heat or electricity to your entire home, to heat your faucet water or to heat your swimming pool water?  Solar systems can be designed to accomplish one or all of these tasks.

The size of your solar system is determined by your home’s specific energy needs, the available area of your rooftop that faces south and the cost of installation. There usually are numerous state and federal rebates and tax credits available for solar installation.

If you need a qualified contractor to help determine the specific design of a solar system as well as the cost of components and installation, contact the experts at Powers Heating & Air.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about solar energy and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Powers Heating & Air serves Peachtree, GA and the surrounding areas.  Visit our websiteto see our special offers and get started today!      

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