16 Jul Adding Solar Panels to an Existing System
Having an existing system of solar panels means that you are already an environmentally-conscious consumer that is working to reduce their energy bill every month. But what if you want to add even more panels to your house? That’s certainly possible and can come in handy if you are planning on using more energy in the future. Get an idea of how additional solar panels can be installed with this guide from Vision Solar.
Reasons for Additional Solar Panels
After you’ve installed solar panels on your roof, you may soon find yourself debating whether you should add more or not. From Vision Solar’s perspective, there are several advantages to doing so, including:
- Reducing energy costs: Depending on your electricity usage, your current solar panels may only partially cover your daily energy consumption. If you want to increase how much solar energy you use and pay even less on your utility bill, then adding more solar panels is a wise choice.
- Charging an electric car:If you own an electric car or are considering purchasing one, you may need some extra energy to charge the vehicle at night. Solar panels are able to deliver that energy to fuel an electric car time and time again.
- Taking advantage of new technology: As the use of solar panels becomes more common, research has gone into developing more affordable technology with higher efficiency. Adding solar panels with the latest advancements will allow you to collect and store more energy.
Understanding Inverters
When installing additional solar panels, one key aspect that will play a role is the type of inverter your existing solar panels currently utilize. After converting the sun’s photos into DC electricity, your solar panel system’s inverter steps in, converting that DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity. This is the form of electricity used by a majority of the appliances in your home.
If you have a string inverter now, additional solar panels will require a higher capacity than your current system is set up to handle. This will allow you to add more panels without having to replace the inverter. Alternatively, you can use microinverters, which are separate inverters installed with each individual panel.
Install a Separate System
Another option for adding more solar panels is to have a second complete system installed. Depending on how much additional power you’re looking for, a new solar panel system can provide some added benefits. For one, homeowners can file claims to receive the federal tax credit for their solar panels more than once. The rate stands at a 26% reimbursement in 2020 and will decrease to a 22% reimbursement in 2021.
The second system would also be ideal for use with an electric car or other appliance that is separate from the rest of your house. You can calculate how much power the system needs to provide and build just what is required.
Add More Panels with Vision Solar
After making the decision to invest in additional solar panels, make sure you choose an installation company with experience you can trust. At Vision Solar, our experienced team will work with you to find the best solution for your home so you can reap the benefits that adding more solar panels can provide. Contact us to schedule a consultation or request a free quote today.