Path-Q Solar
What is the next step if an online solar calculator says my roof is suitable?
Answer
Treat the calculator result as a preliminary screen, then obtain an installer or qualified professional assessment before making a commitment. The next assessment should verify roof condition, shading, structure, electrical service, layout, and project costs.
Key points
- Gather a full year of electricity bills and note planned changes in energy use.
- Request site-specific designs and itemized quotes from more than one installer.
- Ask what the calculator could not evaluate, including roof repairs, access, wiring, structural capacity, and permitting requirements.
What it depends on
- Accuracy of the calculator's imagery, roof measurements, and shading model
- Roof age and condition
- Electrical service, local requirements, and the desired system or battery
Risks and trade-offs
- Remote tools may miss trees, seasonal shade, roof defects, obstructions, or service limitations.
- A system sized from generic usage assumptions may not match your actual load.
- Committing before site verification can lead to scope changes or additional costs.
Information you may need
- Recent utility bills and account information
- Roof age, material, repair history, and photographs
- Desired battery, backup, electric-vehicle, or future-load requirements
- Installer's site assessment and proposed equipment
Your next step
What to do next
Use the calculator result to request site-specific assessments and written quotes from qualified installers.
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