What factors are considered during a solar survey for residential solar systems?
When considering the installation of a solar system for your home, a comprehensive solar survey is a crucial first step. This survey evaluates several important factors to ensure that the solar installation is both efficient and effective for your specific needs. By understanding these factors, homeowners can make informed decisions about their solar investment.
The primary elements assessed during a solar survey include the orientation and pitch of your roof, shading from nearby structures or trees, and the overall energy consumption of your household. These factors help determine the optimal placement and configuration of solar panels, ensuring maximum energy production and cost savings.
The orientation and pitch of your roof play a significant role in the efficiency of a solar system. Ideally, the roof should face south to capture the most sunlight throughout the day, although east or west orientations can also be viable. The angle or pitch of the roof influences how much sunlight the panels can capture, with steeper angles generally being more favourable in the UK.
Shading is another critical factor considered during a solar survey. Any obstructions, such as trees or nearby buildings, that cast shadows on your roof can significantly reduce the efficiency of solar panels. A survey will assess these potential issues and suggest solutions, such as trimming trees or using microinverters, to mitigate shading effects.
Lastly, understanding your household’s energy consumption patterns is essential for designing a solar system that meets your needs. The survey will evaluate past energy bills and usage trends to recommend a system size that optimally balances energy production with your consumption, ensuring that your solar investment is both sustainable and economically beneficial.
