Adding Solar Panels to Your Home: The Basics

by Dianne Drinkwater 07/18/2021

When it comes to renewable resources, there is nothing quite as powerful as the sun. Solar energy is the one resource that we have on our planet that will never run out, and people are discovering that there are many innovative ways to harness the sun's energy in order to power our daily lives.

Recognizing the importance of solar energy, you may be wondering if solar panels are the right choice for your home. This guide will give you the information you need to know about solar panels, and it will help you decide if they are the best feature for your environmentally-friendly home.

Should I Add Solar Panels to My Home?

Solar panels were once considered a luxury upgrade that were not available to the average homeowner, but today they are an option for nearly anyone who is interested. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if solar panels are the right choice for your home:

The type of roof that you have and the age of your roof. Solar panels will work best on a newer, more durable roof, such as one made of composite shingles. It is often best to replace your roof and add solar panels simultaneously, as solar panels have an expected lifespan of about 40 years.
The local climate of your region. Ideally, in order to maximize the use of solar energy, you should live in an area that receives natural sunlight more frequently.
The location of your home. The direction that your home faces may dictate how much sunlight your roof receives on a daily basis. You should only invest in solar panels if your roof receives adequate sunlight.

The Solar Panel Installation Process

If you decide to purchase solar panels for your home, you should leave the installation of these panels to the professionals. This is not a DIY project, but rather, one that only experienced installers should take on. You will want to trust that your solar panels have been installed properly, as this is the only way to maximize their benefits.

The Financial Benefits of Going Solar

Purchasing and installing solar panels will require you to make an initial investment in your home, but you will quickly find that there are many financial benefits associated with going solar. These are just a few to consider:

Your utility costs will go down. When you have solar panels properly installed on your home's roof, you can collect solar energy to power your home. Subsequently, you will be relying less on electricity provided by your utility company. While the amount of cost savings you will realize will vary based on your own consumption and the rates in the local community, it's safe to assume that you will pay less to your utility company over time.
Your property value will go up. Home buyers are often searching for properties that have sustainable features in place, and solar panels are in high demand among those in the market for a new home.

Ultimately, when it comes to adding solar panels to your home, the choice is yours. It is becoming a more common upgrade for homeowners across the country, and solar panels can easily be added to nearly any type of home. If you are interested in living a more sustainable lifestyle, then solar panels may be a good option for you and your home.

About the Author

Dianne Drinkwater

Dianne is a full time, full service, state licensed Realtor®, member of Northeast Florida Regional Association of Realtors® (NEFAR), St. Augustine/ St.Johns County Board of Realtors, National Association of Realtors® (NAR), Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR), and Northeast Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service And St. Augustine/St. Johns (MLS), Shearwater Certified, and Military on the Move Designation.

She provides a unique blend of leadership, sales acumen, project management, technology, and world class customer relation skills to enhance Watson Realty Corporation's values in the real estate sales and mortgage marketplace. She is a decisive take action solution-oriented professional with 25+ years of progressive business experience who efficiently utilizes technology to improve results. She has lived in the St. Augustine/Jacksonville area since 2005 and has seen the area continue to flourish and stays well informed of future growth plans within Northeast Florida.

Let's take a look at the lighter side of Dianne. She loves life is artistic loves music, the arts, yoga and genealogy! She loves to explore and hates to be bored. She loves the outdoors, especially plant life and wildlife. She has been a Master Gardener in Florida and Maine; as a photography enthusiast she has the eye to spot the perfect shot, which spills over to the photos she makes of the properties she markets AND frequently hires the best specialized real estate photographers/drone and videographers who make the difference in the sale. And, she loves to share her knowledge of the local real estate market and all aspects of the process to guide you through each step as a coach rather than a salesperson.

So, let's sum it up. Buying or selling your home is an important life decision. Reasons can vary greatly from change of lifestyle, to relocation or life challenges. You need someone you can trust, count on, respect and help shoulder the stress, anxiety and time commitment involved. Doesn't this sound like someone you want working for you?

So, what's the next step? Contacting Dianne of course. It is all about YOUR needs, goals, timeline and DREAMS! She's here to help you achieve them and she looks forward to hearing from you.

What are you looking for in a Realtor? - Someone who will really listen to your wants and needs? Someone who will expertly market your home until the SOLD sign adorns your front lawn or if you are a buyer tirelessly researches your wish list to find that perfect home? - How about someone who will always be honest, holds ethics in high regard as a realtor, who works aggressively to get you the best price for your home and someone who knows the market?

Selling or buying a home is a partnership with your trusted advisor- Dianne Drinkwater