With a forgiving latitude and a higher-than-average number of sunny days every year, the Peachtree City area is an appealing place for homeowners wanting to test out a home solar installation. Whether you want to reduce your reliance on the power grid, protect the environment, or just watch your electric bills drop or even disappear, here are five things to think about before retrofitting your Peachtree City home for solar power.

1. Location matters. If nearby vegetation, terrain or buildings keep your home in the shade, you may not want to go solar. If your roof gets at least five hours of unobstructed sunlight (on clear days, of course) year-round, though, your home could be a good candidate for a solar retrofit!
2. You have options. Besides all the different brands and installations available, there are two major systems to choose from: photovoltaic solar systems that convert sunlight into electricity for your home, and solar water heaters. Solar water heaters can save you up to 30 percent on water heating, and are popular for heating pools.
3. The contractor is key. You should ask your contractor how much experience the company has with solar installations and ask for a quote. Contact any references the contractor provides. Retrofitting your Peachtree City home for solar energy is a significant project, and deserves some shopping around.
4. You don’t have to buy. In some areas, companies allow you to lease solar panels in non-permanent installations for your home. This can net you the benefits of reduced energy costs, while undercutting the cost of a whole install. But keep an eye out for minimum lease terms; you may be locked in for 10 years.
5. Solar energy may affect the value of your home. While some find solar roof panels unattractive, many new homeowners look favorably on energy-efficient appliances and upgrades. Consult an expert if you foresee selling your home in the next few years.

If you’re considering retrofitting your Peachtree City area home for solar, please contact us at Powers Heating & Air. We’re proud to provide expert advice and helpful information.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock