Solar panels can be expensive; they are renewable which, in turn, helps save on utility costs. There might be instances when you want to remove them for various reasons. Understanding when and why you can remove them will benefit both the homeowner and the business owner. Here is a list of the conditions that might lead to solar panel removal.
- System Upgrades or Repairs
Sometimes, one may need to upgrade or repair the system. The technologies in solar change over time and new panels are bound to be more efficient and better than the older ones. If your current panels are underperforming or perhaps damaged, then it means that upgrading to new ones would have greatly increased your energy output.
- House Renovation or House Building
Sometimes, even home renovation can call for the removal of solar panels. For example, if you plan to make significant alterations such as re-roofing or expanding your house, or doing any other structural changes, then it would perhaps be less hassle to remove the panels during the period of work. Your safety and preventing any loss that may be endured by the installation are also important considerations.
In that regard, it is prudent to discuss this concern with your solar installer since they can provide you with the best way to go about it. They can provide guidance on how safely to remove and reinstall the panels so that you can continue using solar energy with minimal disruption.
- Transfer or Sale of Property
Whether or not to dismantle the solar panels is dependent on some factors when selling a property. If there is little or no desire of the new owner of the property to have the solar system operational, you might dismantle the solar panels before selling. However, if the solar system improves the value of the property and the new owner intends to keep it, ensure all documentation about the solar system, as well as the corresponding warranties, is passed on to the new owner.
Solar leases or PPAs are another aspect where terms with the leasing company need to be reviewed; your rights and obligations towards the solar panels become key when considering removal during a property sale.
- Major Changes in Energy Needs
Other changes in lifestyles, involving additions like new family members or a home business, besides a change in the pattern of energy consumption, may make characteristics of your lifestyle change over time. You could have to remove the currently installed solar panels and erect a bigger system if your current solar system cannot give you enough energy at present.
You should consult with an energy auditor or a solar consultant to learn more about your energy consumption and what solution is right for you. You may need to upgrade your system or switch to another source of power, so careful consideration is essential.
- Performance Issues
While solar panels are designed to be strong and minimalist in service, they degrade gradually. Whatever your weather, debris accumulation, or shading, performance is likely to be impacted. If the performance of your panels is particularly poor despite your efforts to clean and maintain them, then consider taking them off to consider installing alternative energy or replacing them with higher efficiency models.
Wrapping up!
Removing solar panels requires a lot of weighty decisions depending on the essence, whether it is system performance or changes regarding the property. Therefore, it is always better to get professional advice. Get in touch with SolarFIX Electrical Services for professional advice and services for solar panel reinstallation or removal.
