Solar energy has grown impressively over the past decade in the United States. It’s an affordable and reliable way to harvest energy for your household’s electrical needs. Solar panels can provide energy solutions and peace of mind if you’re tired of rising energy costs and roving blackouts.
Installing solar panels as a home improvement project is an excellent investment, but you may need more power in the future. The question many homeowners face is, “Can you add solar panels to an existing system?”
If you want to add to your solar panel installation, you have several methods to consider, and you’re in the right spot to learn each option. Continue reading to consider adding more solar panels to your energy collection system today!
Can You Add Solar Panels to an Existing System?
Installing solar panels for your home provides a reliable and renewable power source for your family’s needs. Your power usage could increase if your family grows or multiple household residents begin working from home.
Ensuring you have enough solar panels to meet your needs will prevent excess expenses from going to the energy company. Your best option is to consider how you can add solar panels to an existing system.
The best solar energy companies will help you build a scalable system that can expand as your needs grow. They’ll also provide insight into discovering solar panel production and the types of solar panels you can use to cover your monthly power usage.
Here’s a breakdown of the three best options for your solar energy needs.
1. Keep Your Inverter and Add Solar Panels
The first option to consider depends on the quality of your solar inverter. The most straightforward solution is to install more solar panels and connect them to the existing system.
You can work with your solar installer to add more of the same solar panels to your roof or yard. The solar service will know the kilowatt threshold to stay under for a safe system.
Most homeowners are unaware that their solar energy system’s inverter can surpass its stated rating. The standard solar inverter can handle up to 133 percent of the listed energy capacity without creating unsafe situations.
The energy transfer from the solar panels to the inverter results in energy loss. The energy lost during the journey through the wires keeps the inverter in a safe range to process.
You can use that wiggle room to add solar panels to an existing system without causing damage or unsafe conditions. It’s best to use the original installer if you’re set on this route when seeking answers to “Can you add solar panels to an existing system?”
2. Replace Your Inverter and Add Solar Panels
Another option for adding a solar panel to an existing system is to purchase a new inverter with a higher energy capacity. Solar technology is improving each year, and you can capitalize on the industry’s growth by combining more efficient types of solar panels with an efficient and powerful inverter.
Depending on the age of your system, you may be due for an upgrade. Most inverters start to lose effectiveness after seven years of use. Use the aging inverter as an opportunity to upgrade your system and get more value for your money.
You’ll also have a much easier time finding compatible solar panels to match your inverter. The newest inverters have several inputs to bring your solar panels and system online. Connecting a new solar panel array with the original through the new inverter is much easier.
3. Install a New and Separate System
The last option you can use to add to your solar panel installation is to install a new and separate system for energy collection. It’s a straightforward approach that will resolve your energy collection challenges.
You’ll install new solar panels with a new inverter in the yard or roof. These panels will work with existing panels by passing power through a separate inverter.
The second system provides several benefits, including a separate warranty. It’s also worth asking your solar installation service about the 2024 solar tax credit to save money on your secondary system.
If the first fails, you’ll enjoy peace of mind that you have a secondary power source. It’s worth considering if you have the disposable income to install more solar panels and purchase a new inverter.
Benefits of Adding Solar Panels
Now that you have answers to the question, “Can you add solar panels to an existing system?” it’s time to dive into the benefits of bolstering your solar energy capabilities. Solar panels are the future of sustainable energy and are essential to reducing your carbon footprint and living a green existence.
The most notable benefit of the solar energy industry’s growth is the affordable pricing of panels and other components. When paired with the solar tax credit, you can get unlimited energy at a fraction of the cost of getting power from the grid.
If you keep your solar system tied to the grid, you can also benefit from net metering. It’s an excellent idea to consider when adding solar panels to your existing system. You can sell the extra energy you collect to the power company and earn passive income through credits.
When adding solar panels to your existing system, it is also wise to install a solar battery. The energy reserve will help you keep the lights on if the grid experiences blackouts.
Your new solar panels will also increase your home value. You’ll have more money from a home equity loan and make more from selling your house.
Consider Adding Panels to Your Solar Panel Installation Today
Renewable energy provides savings for your bank account and the environment, and learning “Can you add solar panels to an existing system?” can help you enjoy green living. Your solar installation company can add new panels to your existing system, or you can add a separate system and earn another solar tax credit. It’s also possible to upgrade your inverter and add more solar panels.
Home upgrades are an excellent way to improve your quality of life, and it starts with finding new ideas. Check out our blog content for tips and ideas on improving your home and life today!
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