DO SOLAR PANELS REQUIRE MAINTENANCE? Solar panels are a submissive technology that requires little upkeep. Depending on where you live, a periodic cleaning every few years is usually recommended to improve long-term energy creation. HOW CAN YOU KEEP YOUR SOLAR PANELS EFFECTIVE FOR YEARS TO COME? Solar panels are tremendously long-lasting, lasting nearly three decades on average. Constructors rigorously test them for thrilling weather conditions such as high winds, heavy snow, and even hail. Furthermore, because solar panel systems typically lack moving parts, they do not demand routine maintenance. All of these factors add to solar panels having a long lifespan. Here are some tips to keep your panels running efficiently for as long as possible. WORK WITH A REPUTABLE SOLAR COMPANY A reliable solar installer will have years of experience, as well as positive feedback from previous customers. They’ll also have a track record of providing excellent customer service, which is essential when making such a large purchase. ASK YOUR INSTALLER TO REGULARLY CHECK YOUR PANELS We have our cars inspected regularly, so why not our solar installations? If your system’s output drops, a solar maintenance professional should inspect it to look for potential problems such as exposed wiring, loose racking, micro-cracks, and more. If you attempt to disassemble and inspect your solar system on your own, you may end up causing more damage and void the warranty. It is suggested that you have your installation cleaned and reviewed once a year to ensure that it is operating at peak enactment. Rather than performing the check yourself, you should hire a qualified. If you accidentally scratch or damage any of the panels, your warranty may be voided. MAINTAINING AND REPLACING BATTERIES If your solar power system includes a battery backup system, you should factor in maintenance and replacement costs. Most lithium-ion and sealed lead-acid batteries must be inspected regularly. The manufacturer’s warranty typically ranges from three to ten years, depending on the specific brand of battery you choose. You can help extend the life of your batteries by properly installing and inspecting them. KEEP YOUR PANELS CLEAR OF DEBRIS AND OTHER DAMAGING MATERIALS During installation, the solar company you’ve chosen will make certain that there are no trees nearby that could drop branches on your panels. Even so, you can help to spread the life of your solar panels by guardianship them clean and free of debris, leaves, snow, and other debris. However, it’s best to have a professional inspect your system’s energy production — including individual panels if you use microinverters — to detect potential damage over time. If you notice any damage or debris on your panels but are unable to safely access them, contact a solar provider who has the necessary equipment and expertise to assist you. STANDARD WARRANTIES ON SOLAR PANELS The warranty period reflects the manufacturer’s estimate of a solar panel’s life expectancy. The regular lifespan of a solar installation is 25 years. Producers can guarantee that panels will operate at or near their peak effectiveness during this time. The majority of pledges guarantee at least 80% of rated output. When it comes to workmanship, isolated pledges are usually provided that cover specific issues such as faulty framing or junction boxes. Warranty periods for workmanship and equipment other than panels, such as inverters and monitoring equipment, are typically shorter. Cellsol energy IS AN INSTALLER YOU CAN TRUST If your system is properly installed and maintained, solar power is one of the best sources of green energy. They will continue to generate a return on your investment due to their durability and long lifespan. Contact CellSol Energy if you’re ready to start harnessing the power of the sun.
HOW LONG DO SOLAR PANELS LAST? THE AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF SOLAR PANELS Solar panels have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years on average. Homeowners and businesses across the country are becoming more interested in living a more sustainable lifestyle. Going solar is the best way to transition to clean, sustainable energy while also drastically reducing — or even eliminating — your monthly utility bills! To get the most out of your solar panel installation, you should first understand the average lifespan of solar panels and decide whether a solar power system is a good investment for your home or business. In this section, we’ll go over how to extend the life of your solar panel system, the specific maintenance required, why degradation may occur, and other factors that affect solar panel lifespan or efficiency. WHY DO SOLAR PANELS DEGRADE? Solar panels may degrade faster than predicted for several reasons. Crystalline silicon panels may experience a higher rate of degradation when solar panels are exposed to extreme changes in climate, experience heavy soiling, or are improperly installed. The superiority of the technology that different manufacturers use can play a role as well. WHAT IS A SOLAR PANEL DEGRADATION RATE? Over their lifetime, solar panel systems will lose their ability to absorb sunlight and convert it into solar energy. However, this gradual loss of efficiency takes many years to occur. Hot weather and the natural decrease in the chemical potency of the panels, also known as the “degradation rate,” are factors that contribute to this. A lower degradation rate solar panel will produce more energy over its lifetime. The lower the degradation rate, the better the solar panel. The rate of degradation of solar panels is also affected by the brand. Higher-quality panels will degrade at a slower rate than lower-quality panels, as expected. According to a National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) study, the average solar panel loses 0.8% of its output each year. Premium manufacturers, such as Sun Power, offer panels with degradation rates as low as 0.3%, implying that their panels will last significantly longer than the majority of other manufacturers. As a result, the degradation rate is an important factor to consider when comparing solar panels during your pre-purchase research. WEATHER The weather also has an impact on the longevity of solar panels. A strong windstorm can cause tree branches to fall and possibly damage the solar panels’ anti-reflective glass coating. Heavy snowfall can cause panels to lose structural integrity and accelerate deterioration, while large hailstones can cause glass damage. Most manufacturers, however, test and certify their panels to withstand storms and other severe weather conditions. INSTALLATION ISSUES Solar panels are typically free of flaws because they are designed to last. However, you should exercise extra caution when connecting and installing panels for the first time. When arranging solar panel arrays, solar engineers must consider the connection system as well as the condition of the roof. If an installer fails to properly assess any issues, an old, damaged, or leaky roof can cause serious problems later on. Before doing any work on your home or business, do your research and find a reputable installer. FACTORS THAT IMPACT THE EFFICIENCY AND PERFORMANCE OF SOLAR PANELS When it comes to technology, there is no such thing as perfection. Here are some of the factors that may have an impact on the efficiency or performance of your solar panel system. MOUNTING POSITION Solar panels work by absorbing as much solar energy as possible. Installing your panels so that they receive as much sunlight as possible will increase their efficiency. As a result, mounting is an important factor to consider when it comes to energy production. Roof solar panels absorb varying amounts of sunlight as the sun moves across the sky throughout the day. However, in general, south-facing is the best orientation for all-day solar exposure. SOLAR IRRADIATION Most people believe that the sun’s heat causes photovoltaic (PV) cells in solar panels to generate electricity. In fact, sunlight is required for solar panels to function properly and produce sustainable energy. The amount of power generated by solar panels is directly proportional to the amount of sunlight (UV rays) that fall on the panel. TEMPERATURE Before installing solar panels on your home or business, you should consider the average temperature in your area. Excessive heat can reduce the energy production of your system. Considering your area’s climate will assist you in arranging your solar panels in a way that allows for adequate airflow, keeping them at the proper temperature for optimal operating conditions.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE INSTALLING SOLAR PANELS Making the switch to solar power is a big step, but it’s well worth it. Who wouldn’t want a lifetime supply of renewable energy? As more people recognize the value of renewable energy, solar system instalment rates continue to rise. If you’re thinking about installing a solar panel system in your home or business, here are some questions to ask before you begin. CAN YOUR ROOF SUPPORT SOLAR PANELS? If your roof requires repair or replacement within the next few years, it’s best to fix it first. You won’t have to pay extra to disassemble and reinstall a system this way. Your roof must be strong enough to support the weight of the solar panel system. Hiring a solar technician to evaluate your roof will assist you in determining whether it requires additional support. IS YOUR ROOF THE RIGHT SHAPE AND TYPE? An on-site inspection is necessary to determine whether your roof is suitable for solar.A standard gable roof is ideal for solar panels because it allows for a quick and easy installation. However, many other roof types complement solar panels. During your site visit, installers will consider the roof type, shape, material, pitch, and orientation. These elements work together to determine how much sunlight your roof can effectively absorb. Some roof materials are better than others at supporting solar panels due to their composition: Because it does not require roof penetration, metal (standing seam, tin, and corrugated) is the easiest material to install solar panels on.Because they are durable, composition shingles are also ideal for solar installation.The material determines the tile roof surface. Because clay tile is prone to cracking and breaking, concrete. WHICH DIRECTION DOES THE SLOPE OF YOUR ROOF FACE? Your solar panels act as solar sponges. The more light they receive, the more energy you produce. However, if your roof is not facing the sun, your panels will not produce as much energy. It is critical that your solar panels face south in order to get the most out of your installation. Depending on the pitch and orientation of your roof, west may also suffice. Solar panels can capture energy in some cases when installed on east or north-facing roofs. CellSol Energy has an online solar potential calculator that will assist you in determining the energy output of your roof. Above all, however, always rely on a solar expert. HOW EFFICIENT IS YOUR HOME? HOW MUCH ENERGY DO YOU USE? If your home has an older HVAC system, insufficient insulation, or poorly sealed windows and doors, it may be more cost-effective to make energy-efficiency improvements before installing solar panels. You can install a smaller system with fewer panels and increase your overall payback by first reducing your energy consumption. Other cost factors to consider include: How much energy you use: The greater your current electricity consumption, the greater the savings and payback from a solar installation.Will your energy consumption rise or fall in the future: Your electricity usage will increase if you plan to install a pool, buy an electric vehicle, or expand your family, among other things. Does your monthly energy consumption vary? Electricity consumption varies throughout the year. It usually peaks during the hot summer months due to air conditioning loads or in the winter due to the need to stay warm.Consult with your solar contractor about designing a solar panel system that will meet your energy needs all year. To maximize your overall savings, consider the efficiency of your home, your energy usage, and utility net metering policies. HOW DO YOU CONNECT TO THE GRID? When connecting a distributed generation energy system to the grid, keep logistics in mind. Here are some inquiries you should make of your installer and utility company: How long will it take to establish a connection? Is it my responsibility to pay any fees? How will I be compensated for the electricity generated? How long will it take for me to receive credits for the electricity I generated? WHAT ABOUT WARRANTIES? There are many durable and long-lasting types of solar panels available, but it’s still important to know that you’re covered if anything goes wrong with them. Warranties differ depending on the manufacturer, but they typically cover equipment and energy production performance. After 20 years of use, a typical industry warranty guarantees that the panels will generate 80% of their rated power. At CellSol Energy, we provide a comprehensive warranty for our Sun Power solar panels that covers all parts and labor for the entire system for a period of 25 years, as well as a 92% energy production guarantee after that period. Check with your solar company to ensure that they provide a solid warranty and will service your system for free. You should also inquire about what happens to your warranty if the manufacturer is acquired or goes out of business. Companies that are publicly traded in the United States must keep a reserve for warranty protection, whereas other companies may offer warranty insurance plans. HOW MUCH DOES SOLAR COST? A variety of factors influence your total solar cost, including the size of your installation, your energy consumption, and the net metering policies of your utility company. The good news is that solar rebates, as well as federal and local incentives, can significantly reduce overall costs. For a customized solar analysis of your home, you’ll need to hire a solar expert. The size, type, and efficiency of your panels influence both your upfront out-of-pocket costs and your monthly payments. The higher the purchase price, the more efficient your panels are. If you own a company, you can enter into a power purchase agreement in which you buy the energy but not the solar equipment. This means you get consistent electricity rates with no up-front costs.
DO SOLAR PANELS WORK IN WINTER? Temperatures do not drop in winter because the earth is farther from the sun, contrary to popular belief. The earth is farthest away from the sun in July and closest to it in January. So, what does this mean for your solar panels as the weather cools? We’ll answer any questions you have about how a solar panel installation works in the winter. DO SOLAR PANELS WORK IN SNOW? If you’ve ever wondered, “Will solar panels work in cold climates during the winter?” you’re not alone. Many people believe that solar panels do not work during the winter, but this is a myth. Solar panels work just as well during the winter as long as they are not covered in snow for an extended period (yes, even in the snow). Although heavy snowfall can reduce sunlight penetration, panels produce more electricity in winter than you might think. Anti-reflective glass designed to absorb maximum sunlight covers the silicon on premium solar panels, generating more electricity. This means that solar panels generate more heat from the sun than the surface of your roof. That heat melts snow faster than it does on your roof, allowing your solar system to continue producing power even when there is heavy snow on the ground. In many cold climates, winter precipitation is limited to a few days. Between November and March, Denver, Colorado, receives between two and three days of snowfall totaling more than 0.1 inches. Snow melts in a matter of days, especially on solar panels! Furthermore, solar panels are designed to withstand 20 to 40 pounds of weight per square foot, so snow is rarely a threat. During the manufacturing process, all solar panels are subjected to pressure tests to determine quality and durability. And, because ratings vary by a panel, you can choose higher pressure ratings if you live in a snowy area. DO SOLAR PANELS NEED WINTER MAINTENANCE? The great thing about solar panels is that they require little to no maintenance for the majority of the year, including the winter. If you live in an area that experiences heavy winter storms — think polar vortex level — you may want to hire a professional to remove wet, heavy snow from your roof if you’re concerned about roof safety. CellSol Energy takes extra precautions by installing snow guards in areas where snow can accumulate and cause damage. Solar battery storage is also an important consideration during the winter — and throughout the year. This is because a battery allows you to store energy regardless of daily production. Battery storage works by collecting all of the electricity generated by your panels and storing it in your home rather than sending it back to the power grid. As a result, you can use that stored energy when you need more power than your panels can provide, such as at night or on cloudy days. HOW EFFECTIVE ARE SOLAR PANELS IN WINTER? Remember this important fact about solar energy: it is not about warmth — it is about sunlight. Summer solar power generation vs. winter solar power generation may surprise you. Because solar panels work more efficiently in cooler temperatures, cold, sunny weather is an ideal time to generate energy for your home. The industry-standard specifications for PV systems are made at 77oF, but they perform even better in colder temperatures. Even in the coldest temperatures, when the sun shines, solar panels produce the electricity you need to become more self-sufficient by generating your power. LOOKING FOR SOLAR INSTALLERS IN YOUR AREA? Even wind, cold, rain, and snow can’t keep solar panels from doing what they do best: generating clean energy to help you live more sustainably. And now is a great time to invest in a solar-powered home so that your installation is ready for the long, hot summer days. If you’re ready to make the switch, we’re here to assist you. CellSol Energy, a leading residential solar installer in Pakistan, has outfitted numerous homes and commercial businesses with solar, and we perform safe, contact-free installations to protect you and your family from COVID-19 spread. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation, and we’ll get your home on the path to clean energy.
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