Homes that have installed solar panels on their roof claim to have higher energy savings after using their system for a few years. Highly efficient solar panels used in temperate climates with consistent sunlight let their systems collect more UV energy, enabling their systems to power houses throughout the day.
The total amount you can save on solar panels depends on a variety of factors. The sunlight in your area will dictate the amount of solar energy your system might collect. The system you purchase has a different performance among other ones – even among ones that are part of their batch.
The brand of solar panels or solar shingles will also impact your solar panel savings. A high-quality panel system from LG will have high acquisition but have outstanding performance in the next few years. Alternatively, solar shingles from GAF are one of the most coveted and top-performing ones available in the market. It can be installed by any certified GAF roofer with proper training and is compatible with most roofs. This is in contrast to Tesla solar shingles that require a specialist roofing team to install, maintain, and repair.
To learn the actual amounts you can save by using solar panels, here's a breakdown from Solar RNG.
How Much Can You Save from Using Solar Energy?
Solar panels have always been a great option when it comes to potential energy savings. However, it’s important to know that the amount you save will vary depending on several factors. Based on average stats, we can provide an approximation.
The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates that an average household consumes 887 kWh and spends around US$115 a month. A 2-square meter solar panel can generate up to 45 kWh of AC energy per month. So, to cover completely the monthly average demand of 887 kWh per household, you need 20 panels with a total of 8kWp producing a total of 900kWh 45 output per month.
With each panel producing 400 watts an hour, this totals to 8,000 watts per hour for all 20 panels. If you think this is too much, remember that you can earn from the excess energy your system produces and exports back to the grid. Solar panels make use of the sun, a renewable energy source, so it doesn’t go to waste.
With this model, if enough solar panels are installed to cover the average electricity consumption per month, a household could save US$1,384 per year—or not have to pay for electricity at all.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BUUQLsFSmY
Appliances That Consume a Lot of Electricity
Certain household appliances consume a lot of energy. You can swap some for energy-saving alternatives, while being aware of how much electricity they consume may be good enough for other items. This way, you can be mindful of your usage and potentially cut down on costs.
Refrigerator – Having a fridge at home is necessary to keep groceries and produce fresh, but it generally consumes a lot of energy since it’s turned on 24/7. The average consumption of a 16-cu. ft. fridge is 1,200-watt-hours per day. Get a size that fits your family’s needs (not too big or small) and keep it a couple of inches away from the wall for proper ventilation.
Water Heater – Warm baths are incredibly relaxing, but if you take pleasure in having long showers, know that a water heater can consume 4,500-watt-hours per day. While it’s alright to indulge every once in a while, being mindful of your shower time could help reduce both your electric and water bills.
Air Conditioner – While a must-have during the summer months, it’s one of the appliances that is most easily overused. The type of air conditioner, the size of the room you are keeping cool, and how long it’s running are factors contributing to a higher electrical bill. Set timers, if possible, to control your usage. (Continue reading here to learn more)
Roper Roofing & Solar is a GAF certified roofer with long-term experience installing solar panels and GAF Timberline Solar Shingles. We also offer high-quality residential roofing installation, repair, and maintenance services. Call us today to get started.
