Page 6 - Hawaii Renovation - May 7, 2023

6 HAWAII RENOVATION MAY 7, 2023
SIMPLE STEPS TO GETTING STARTED
WITH SOLAR PANELS
With more Americans “go- ing green” than ever be- fore, you’ve probably already started thinking about doing it yourself. Perhaps you’ve increased your recycling efforts, started us- ing more Energy Star appliances and light bulbs or upgraded to other greener technology options. Chances are, you also may be thinking about using solar energy to power your home, but don’t know where to start.
It may be easier than you think to have solar panels installed in your home. According to residential solar experts, here are the steps involved in going solar.
CHECK YOUR ROOF
Because putting solar panels on your home involves a roof installa- tion, your first step should be check- ing the condition of your roof to see if you may need any repairs or if you must replace your roof before instal- lation. Having a solid foundation for solar panels is crucial to avoid prob- lems down the road. The usable life of most solar equipment exceeds 20 years, so proactively making repairs on roofs near end of life can save headaches of repairing or replacing rooftops once the solar array is in- stalled.
To the untrained eye most solar modules look alike, but there are differences in the cells (the engine of the solar modules) that impact ef- ficiency. Depending on your home’s energy usage and the available space you have to install the panels (ide- ally on an unshaded south or south- west facing roof), this may influence whether you need high efficiency solar panels. Also research not just upfront installation costs, but the value of the energy produced by the array during the life of the system. Saving 5% on installation costs to- day might reduce savings by 10% or more over the lifetime of your solar installation.
FIND AN INSTALLER
Research reputable companies in your area so you’ll be confident that your installation is done correctly. Be wary of salespeople who show up at your door trying to persuade you to make an instant decision. Repu- table installation companies will be registered with organizations such as the Better Business Bureau, have credentials from third party organi- zations like North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, or are certified installer partners of the manufacturers they represent. Get installation quotes from a few com- panies so you can compare costs. An installer will want to visit your home to assess the state and orien- tation of your roof and to see how much shade it gets. The installation company will also recommend solar and energy storage products, based on your budget and needs.
Are you seeing these issues around your home? We Can Help!
Rotting or sagging posts
Settling foundation
AFTER
rawl space
Sinking concrete
BEFORE
GATHER INFORMATION
• Lifting and stabilizing settling foundations
• Controlling your home’s humidity, mold, musty odors and moisture
• Lifting and leveling sinking concrete slabs
• Stabilizing sagging floors
• Residential and Commercial work
Moisture in c
Specializing in...
Research different solar module technology types and warranties.
CONTACT US FOR A
FREE ESTIMATE!
5% OFF NEW Customers
CHOOSE YOUR SOLAR PANELS
Look for efficient, durable so- lar panels from a company you al- ready know and trust. LG NeON 2 solar panels with Cello Technology have a double-sided solar cell struc-
Must mention at time of appointment. Not valid with any other offers.
808-204-4330
foundationsupportoahu.com
HI Lic # CT-36007 C31A, C34, C35, C55
SEE PAGE 8
El Toro Zoysia • Captiva Saint Augustine SeaStar Seashore Paspalum Tahoma 31 Bermuda • Zeon Zoysia
ONLINE ORDERING 24/7
HawaiianTurfGrass.com
Curbside Delivery Available!
High Quality, Locally Grown Sod
when you purchase a minimum 400 sq. ft. Expires 5/31/23. Coupon cannot be combined with any other offers. Must present ad at time of purchase.
Lic # C-32884
(808) 371-0527