Is My Home Suitable for Solar Panels?

With the solar industry becoming more prominent, sooner or later every homeowner at least once thinks about powering their home with solar energy. One step along the way when trying to decide whether solar power is the best solution for your situation and could save you money is to know if solar panels can perform at their highest efficiency on your property.  

Naturally, sooner or later one question arises: “how do I know if my home is suitable for a solar panel installation?” 

That is a good question. Well, luckily, there are some factors you can assess yourself, and get answers you need. Here are the practical steps to assess if your home is suitable for solar panel installation:

Assessing your home for solar installation: How do I know if I can have solar panels?

Truth is that far more places are suitable for solar panels than those where solar panels wouldn’t pay for themselves. That’s the first piece of information that is quite encouraging. You might think solar panels only work in sunny regions, but modern systems can generate energy even on cloudy days. 

The energy generating potential of photovoltaic solar panels depends on your latitude and climate, with locations closer to the equator and fewer clouds being better but not necessary for getting enough electricity for one household. 

So, what are the factors you need to consider? 

#1 Local climate & weather patterns

Your geographical location and local climate have an impact on how much sunlight your panels will receive and, consequently, how much power they can generate throughout the year. 

This is calculated using peak sun hours, which are the times when sunlight is intense enough to generate a kilowatt of energy per square meter. Tools like Google Sunroof can help estimate solar potential at your exact location by analyzing sunlight exposure and shading throughout the year.

#2 Roof orientation and tilt

The orientation and tilt of your roof play a critical role in how much sunlight your solar panels will receive, impacting their overall efficiency. Ideally, roofs facing south capture the most sunlight throughout the day, while east- and west-facing roofs can also be effective but may produce slightly less energy. 

The angle of your roof should match the latitude of your location for optimal performance. For example, if you live at a latitude of 30 degrees, your panels should ideally be tilted at 30 degrees to maximize sun exposure. In most parts of the United States, the ideal tilt angle ranges from 15 to 40 degrees. This alignment allows your panels to capture the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the year.

#3 Roof condition and free space

The condition and available space of your roof are vital factors in determining its suitability for solar panels. Your roof needs to be in good condition to support the additional weight and installation of solar panels. 

Ideally, it should not require major repairs or replacement within the next few years, as solar panels typically last 25 to 30 years. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, consider replacing it before installing solar panels to avoid the cost and hassle of removing and reinstalling the panels later.

The available space on your roof is another important consideration. Solar panels require a significant amount of unobstructed space to generate enough output. Typically, an average residential solar panel system requires around 200 to 400 square feet of roof space. 

You also need to make sure that this area is free from obstructions like chimneys, vents, or skylights. These features would hinder the installation process and could shade solar panels, thus reducing their performance.

In regions with heavy snowfall, your roof will need to support both the snow load and the weight of the solar panels. The weight can be substantial in this case and is definitely something to be addressed prior to the solar panel placement. 

#4 Shading

Photovoltaic solar panels need direct sunlight to produce electricity. Partial shading of solar cells not only decreases the potential of a solar panel to generate power, but it also shortens its lifetime because some cells of the grid are constantly overworking and get worn down at a faster rate than expected, and shaded cells are exposed to increasing temperature that could eventually damage the semiconductor material.

To maximize the efficiency of your solar panels, you need to evaluate your roof for any potential shading issues. This includes shading caused by nearby trees, buildings, chimneys, or other structures. Even small amounts of shading can significantly impact the energy output of your solar system. 

Do not forget to consider how shading might change with the seasons as well. For example, trees might cast more shadow in summer when they are full of leaves or heavy with fruit.

#5 Building codes and homeowners association rules

Before considering solar panels, you need to check local building codes and homeowners association (HOA) rules. These can vary based on area and may affect the number of panels you can place on your property. 

Building codes are in place to guarantee that your installation meets safety and structural standards. In case you go ahead with your solar project, you will need to obtain the necessary permits from your local building department. This task is often done by the solar company you choose for your solar panel installation, but it is still good to be familiar with the requirements. 

Additionally, HOAs can have specific guidelines about the appearance and placement of solar panels. You should review your HOA’s covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) to identify any limitations or requirements. What’s more, engaging with your HOA early can help you avoid conflicts and make the installation process smoother.

At this point, consulting with a professional solar installer can be helpful. They can guide you through navigating these regulations and securing the necessary approvals. But as mentioned above, many companies offer this as a part of their package when they get started on your project. Just keep this part in mind when getting started on your search for the best solar company for your project. 

#6 Your energy needs 

It is good to look into your energy usage per year, as this will help you determine the size of the solar system you need to get. Do you want to offset all your electricity usage, or are you aiming to reduce your bills partially? This will determine the cost of solar panels you will need to get and give you an idea of the space that will be taken by them. 

To find out your average energy usage, check your past utility bills. More precisely the last 12 months of your bills (so you include summer and winter months as energy consumption varies throughout the year). Look for the total number of killowatt-hours (kWh) you consumed every month.

Sum the numbers up and divide them by 12 to get the average. An easier way to determine your total energy consumption for the past year is to simply call your utility company and ask them to provide you the details.

To get even more reliable information, do the calculation for the past two or even more years. This will allow you to get the most accurate overview of your long-term energy consumption.

Based on the data available from the U.S Energy Information Administration, in 2019 the average family home in the United States consumed 10,649 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, or  about 900 kWh of electricity per month. That’s 30kWh per day.

Obviously, your household can consume more or less electricity depending on how big your house is, how many family members live in it, the appliances you have and how energy efficient you are.

Additionally, consider any future changes that might affect your energy usage. Are you planning to add new appliances, buy an electric vehicle, or expand your home? These factors can increase your energy needs, so it’s important to account for them when sizing your solar system.

#7 Utility company policies and compatibility

Another useful thing to understand are your utility company’s policies regarding solar power and ensure compatibility. Start by checking if your utility supports solar installations and offers net metering. Net metering allows you to sell excess electricity back to the grid, which can significantly reduce your energy bills.

Additionally, look into any specific requirements or restrictions your utility company might have regarding solar panel installations. Some utilities may have guidelines on the size of the system, the type of inverter, or connection processes. To save yourself a future hassle, it is better to comply with these to avoid any issues with your installation.

What’s more, consult your utility company about potential incentives or rebates they might offer for solar installations. Many utilities provide financial incentives to encourage solar adoption, which can help offset your initial investment. 

Also, a professional solar installer can help you navigate these policies and ensure your system is compatible with your utility company’s requirements. They can provide insights on maximizing benefits and ensuring a smooth integration with the grid.

#8 Professional assessment

Getting a professional assessment is a recommendable step before installing solar panels. A professional contractor can evaluate your home’s suitability, looking at factors like roof condition, orientation, and shading. They know what to look for and can spot any issues that might affect your system’s efficiency.

Additionally, a professional assessment includes a detailed analysis of your energy needs and usage patterns. This helps design a solar system tailored to your specific requirements. They can also give you tips on the best placement and type of panels to maximize energy production.

We have partnered with EnergySage to offer a handy solar calculator on our website. This tool helps you estimate your solar potential and savings based on your location and energy usage. We highly recommend using the EnergySage calculator for an initial assessment before scheduling a professional evaluation. 

Can my roof support solar panels?

Land is a valuable asset that most of us cannot afford to have in excess, shading on the land placed solar panels is also a bigger risk, which is the main reason why many homeowners choose to have solar panels on the roof. Whatever your reason is for planning to place your solar panels on the roof, you need to be sure that the roof can support this additional load.

Here are some factors to consider:

#1 Extra weight of solar panels

Solar panels and their mounting systems add weight – typically around 2 to 4 pounds per square foot. While most roofs can handle this additional load, you need to check the age and condition of your roof. 

Older roofs or those needing repair might not be suitable without reinforcement.

If you are not sure, it is a good idea to consult with a structural engineer or professional solar installer. They can assess your roof’s integrity and confirm whether it can safely support the added weight. They will look at factors like the spacing and strength of your roof trusses or rafters. 

#2 Roof structure assessment

You can do a brief visual assessment of your roof from the outside and inside. Look at your roof from the ground. Check for missing, curled, or cracked shingles. If your roof is over 20 years old, it might not be suitable for solar panels without repairs, that is one important thing to consider.

Next, go into your attic and look at the underside of your roof. Check for any signs of water damage, such as dark spots or mold. These can indicate leaks that need to be fixed before adding solar panels.

Measure the distance between the trusses or rafters. Standard spacing is typically 16 or 24 inches apart. If they are spaced too far apart, your roof might need additional support. Check if the trusses or rafters are strong and in good condition. They should not be cracked or sagging. 

#3 Check structural integrity

Walk around your home and look at the roof from the ground. Check for visible signs of damage like missing or broken shingles, sagging areas, or signs of wear and tear. Look at your roofline from a distance. A straight roofline is a good sign, but any sagging or dips can indicate structural problems that need to be fixed.

Do not forget to have the same good look also from the inside. Go into your attic and look at the underside of the roof. Check for any visible cracks, water stains, or signs of mold. In general, these issues can weaken the structural integrity of your roof and need to be addressed before installing solar panels.

#4 Inspect roof components

Look for cracked, curled, or missing shingles on your roof. These can indicate wear and tear that needs addressing. If you have a different type of roofing material, check for similar signs of damage.

During your inspection, check also flashing. Flashing is usually found around chimneys, vents, skylights – where the roof meets walls. Look for any signs of rust, cracks, or damage. Check the sealant around the flashing. If it is cracked or peeling, it needs to be replaced.

#5 Professional roof assessment

We cannot stress this point enough – when in doubt, have a professional take a look. It is worth it. Having a professional assess your roof before can be the best choice for your safety and maximizing efficiency in the long term. 

They check if your roof can handle the weight and identify any issues that might need fixing, guaranteeing your home is ready for solar. This also helps in optimizing panel placement for maximum energy production and ensures compliance with local building codes and HOA regulations.

What’s more, a thorough assessment extends the life of both your roof and solar system by addressing any potential problems upfront.

Further reading: How to Replace a Roof with Solar Panels

How do I choose the best solar panels for my home?

Choosing the best fit solar panels for your roof involves a few key steps to ensure you get the most efficient and cost-effective system. First, consider the efficiency and warranty of the panels. High-efficiency panels, like those from SunPower or LG, can produce more electricity from the same amount of sunlight, which is great if you have limited roof space. Panels with long warranties, typically 25 years, provide peace of mind that your investment will last​.

Next, think about your roof’s available space and orientation. Solar panels require a decent amount of space, and ideally, your roof should face south to capture the most sunlight. Tools like Google Sunroof can help estimate your roof’s solar potential by analyzing its size, orientation, and shading. 

Also, check local incentives and rebates to reduce upfront costs. Using resources like the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) can help you find available programs in your area​.

We have written a great guide on this topic, including a video listing the most important aspects of selecting the best solar panels. Feel free to check it out: Best Solar Panels for Homes in 2024. It is a good step when starting your research about solar energy suitability for your home. Good luck with getting your solar system up and running.