Solar FAQs
Solar FAQs
Finding the right information on solar power can be confusing and time consuming, so we have put together a list of frequently asked questions to enlighten even the most novice solar power researcher on how solar power works:
What are the Benefits of Solar Energy?
There are many benefits to using solar energy, both financial and otherwise. Here are a few:
- Clean electricity
- Free / low cost
- Fights climate change
- Allows power in remote locations
- Increases resale value of home
- Provide backup power in case of outage
How Much Space Do I Need for Solar Panels?
Typically you will need about 7 square feet for each dollar of your electric bill, but this figure varies depending on the amount of sunlight your receive and the efficiency of your solar panels.
Where Can I Mount Solar Panels?
Solar panels are ideally mounted on a roof, since this way they take up no extra space, but they are equally as effective on the ground. You will want to mount your panels in the location that receives the most sun throughout the year.
How Long Will my System Last?
Most solar panels have a 25-year warranty. The panels are built to be resilient to hail and other inclement weather conditions. Other parts of the system like the inverter and batteries usually come with a 5 to 10 year warranty.
Will My Solar Power System Generate Electricity in the Winter?
Most people are under the belief that it is the heat from the sun that creates solar energy. In fact, it is the light that is used to create energy within a photovoltaic (solar) panel, so as long as you have a number of clear, sunny days in the winter your system should produce a sufficient amount of energy. Keep in mind that the days are shorter in the winter, so you won’t get quite as much energy out of your solar powered system as you would in the summer.
How is Solar Power Stored?
Depending on your type of system or where you are located, the excess power created by your solar power system can be stored in batteries for later use, or sent back through your electricity meter to create a credit (see net metering).
What is Net Metering?
Net metering allows you to send excess electricity created by your solar panels backwards through the system to your utility meter. When you are creating more energy than you are using, the extra gets sent to someone else, and you receive and electric credit. At night or on dark days where your solar panel isn’t creating energy you will be using energy from the electric company, but because of the credit you have built up you won’t pay for it. Net metering is a great way to have a solar system that doesn’t use batteries.
Can I Install a Solar Panel System Myself?
Absolutely. There are no special skills required to install a solar panel and other components, and there are a wide variety of resources available online to walk you through the process. You can save yourself a few thousand dollars by choosing to install the system yourself, which can translate into money in your pocket or a larger system (which will give you more free electricity). You should contact a licensed electrician if you want to tie a system to your house’s electrical box.
Solar Panel Efficiency
When browsing the wide variety of solar panels out there, solar panel efficiency should be an important factor on your list to help you determine which types of panels are best for you. The efficiency of a solar panel relates to how much energy from…[read more]
Solar Power For Homes
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How To Build A Solar House
If you want your new home to be energy efficient, even energy independent, then you should certainly look into how to build a solar house. With the proper amount of planning you can incorporate solar energy into your home design and ensure that you have lasting source of clean…[read more]
