Many homeowners would like to convert to a home solar energy system because they can cut down on their electric costs while helping to save our planet with this environmental friendly power source. However, a lot of them are not actually making the conversion to a solar powered home. Some may still have doubts on the cost benefits of a solar power conversion while others may worry about potential problems they may encounter after they make the conversion. Let’s go through a few of the advantages and disadvantages of converting to solar power.

Advantages of  A Home Solar Energy System:

Solar power is a renewable energy generated from the Sun so the energy source won’t be depleted, at least for another 5 billion years.  It’s not like we’re ever going to run out of it if we use too much.

Solar power is an environmentally friendly energy source. Unlike fossil fuels, the use of solar energy will not contribute to global warming, air pollution or emit carcinogens into the air.

The energy from the Sun is free, unlike traditional energy sources where the more you use the less there is and the more it costs.  With a home solar energy system, you can use all the electricity you want and not worry about the cost because the Sun is free to use.

There is very little maintenance required for a solar power system. Solar cells can last 30 years or more, and because there are no moving parts it won’t cost you hardly anything in maintenance. The only thing you’ll need to do is replace the storage batteries once in a while.

The installation of a solar power system will most likely increase the resale value of your home.

Disadvantages of a Home Solar Energy System:

The main sticking point that keeps many people from installing a solar power system is the cost, it is expensive. A solar power system that provides enough energy to power an average sized home can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $20,000 or more. With continued research and development, solar panels will eventually become more efficient and less costly. Moreover, there are many DIY manuals that teach people how to build their own solar power system using less expensive materials which can be found at hardware stores and over the internet.

Solar power cannot be generated without sunlight, which means power cannot be created at night, or when it rains, is cloudy or during the winter if the panels are covered with snow.  You’ll need an alternate energy source, such as your electric company, in areas that don’t have an abundance of sunshine all year round.

If you install solar panels on your roof, it becomes part of the house. You may need to sell it together with your house if you decide to move to a new home. Then you’ll need to install solar panels at your new house.

Some people don’t like the look of solar panels on their house as they feel it detracts from the beauty of their home.  However, an alternative to solar panels are solar shingles.  They look and act like normal asphalt shingles but they are actually solar cells.  Basically, they’re just good looking solar panels.

You need to take into consideration both the advantages and the disadvantages of a home solar energy system before converting your home.  Solar power has its benefits, but also its drawbacks, so make your decision carefully.

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