Are Solar Panels Worth It in Florida?

You’re considering converting your house to solar power (which would seem to make sense living in the Sunshine State).

But you’re not sure if it’s worth it.

So, is it?

Are you planning to live in your home long enough for solar to pay itself off over its lifetime?

Can you handle the high upfront costs?

To help you answer those important questions, consider these averages related to solar in Florida:

• Cost to go solar: $10,823 ($2.58 per watt)
• Total savings over 25 years: $56,077
• Payback period: 11-13.4 years

Source: Solar estimate tool powered by Solar Reviews.

While going solar CAN pay for itself in the long run, make sure you:

1. Can handle the upfront cost (leasing options are limited in Florida)
2. Are going to be living in your home for more than 13 years.

You should also consider the opportunity cost.

That is, what else could you do with the money you plan to spend on solar? Where else could you invest it for a quicker return on investment? (Quicker than 13 years, anyway.)

For a quicker bang for your buck, there are several ways to save money by lowering energy costs.

A big one is sealing leaky air ducts in your home.

According to ENERGY STAR, the average home’s air ducts lose 20% of the air that passes through them due to:

• Holes
• Leaks
• Poorly connected ducts

That’s like paying for 25 gallons of gas, but only getting to use 20 because 5 gallons leaked out.

Learn more about air duct leakage.

A few other ways to lower your energy bills:

• Switch to LED lights (could save you up to $231 a year)
• Use the best drapes for keeping out heat
• Keep your air conditioner working efficiently

Contact Advanced Air for a Whole Home Performance Evaluation. We will:

• Find out how your home is using energy
• Sniff out how you’re wasting your money
• Give you a detailed plan on how to improve your energy performance in the future

Advanced Air has been serving Fort Myers and Naples, Florida, and the surrounding areas for over 25 years.