Disturbedfuel15
New Member
Hello!
I get a lot of FOMO and purchase when I see a good deal. So I currently have 40 235w vinyl-cracked solar panels from Santan solar ($1400 shipped to me). I also have about 20 10ft Unistrut/Superstrut struts for mounting the panels to. My original idea was to ground mount, until I was kicked in the mouth with an almost $5k quote to remove a large tree where I wanted the ground mount to go. In lieu of that, I'm chopping down a smaller tree that will give my roof all-day access to sun. I'd like to still use the strut, as I paid full price for those. I used it elsewhere for my battery rack, so it made sense at the time to buy it all in one go (shipping). The idea is to mount the struts to something like Unirac Flashloc or Quickbolt on my roof. End of backstory.
My question centers around using these used panels vs buying some brand new ones. Keep in mind, I didn't get to use the 30% tax credit for the used panels, whereas I'd be able to with regards to brand new panels. I don't mind spending double what I've already spent on new panels if it means I won't need to go on the roof as often. I couldn't imagine it being the middle of winter, needing to replace or bypass a panel on the roof. My roof is only four years-old, so I'm not worried about the integrity of it. I also feel like using less panels of greater wattage and greater efficiency would mean less square-footage of panels equaling the same output. I could get more wattage out of my roof if necessary, adding panels as necessary. I want all the panels to be the same for aesthetics.
If this were ground mount, I wouldn't be asking this question, as maintenance is easier. Climbing on my roof for maintenance, not as easy. Also keep in mind I could get at least half of my money back selling these used ones, I'm sure.
The main reason I'm asking this is to avoid what I'm doing, and have done countless times--buying twice amidst new knowledge. This community is oozing with knowledge, so I'm reaching out. Constructive criticism is always welcome.
Thank you kindly in advance!
I get a lot of FOMO and purchase when I see a good deal. So I currently have 40 235w vinyl-cracked solar panels from Santan solar ($1400 shipped to me). I also have about 20 10ft Unistrut/Superstrut struts for mounting the panels to. My original idea was to ground mount, until I was kicked in the mouth with an almost $5k quote to remove a large tree where I wanted the ground mount to go. In lieu of that, I'm chopping down a smaller tree that will give my roof all-day access to sun. I'd like to still use the strut, as I paid full price for those. I used it elsewhere for my battery rack, so it made sense at the time to buy it all in one go (shipping). The idea is to mount the struts to something like Unirac Flashloc or Quickbolt on my roof. End of backstory.
My question centers around using these used panels vs buying some brand new ones. Keep in mind, I didn't get to use the 30% tax credit for the used panels, whereas I'd be able to with regards to brand new panels. I don't mind spending double what I've already spent on new panels if it means I won't need to go on the roof as often. I couldn't imagine it being the middle of winter, needing to replace or bypass a panel on the roof. My roof is only four years-old, so I'm not worried about the integrity of it. I also feel like using less panels of greater wattage and greater efficiency would mean less square-footage of panels equaling the same output. I could get more wattage out of my roof if necessary, adding panels as necessary. I want all the panels to be the same for aesthetics.
If this were ground mount, I wouldn't be asking this question, as maintenance is easier. Climbing on my roof for maintenance, not as easy. Also keep in mind I could get at least half of my money back selling these used ones, I'm sure.
The main reason I'm asking this is to avoid what I'm doing, and have done countless times--buying twice amidst new knowledge. This community is oozing with knowledge, so I'm reaching out. Constructive criticism is always welcome.
Thank you kindly in advance!
