Frequently Asked Questions

When you install solar panels on your home, it may affect your home insurance policy. It is advisable to inform your insurance provider about the installation of solar panels. 

In some cases, your insurance premium may increase due to the added value of the solar system. However, many insurance companies offer specific policies or endorsements to cover the solar panels, so you can ensure they are protected in the event of damage or theft. It's best to consult with your insurance provider to understand how your policy will be affected and to explore any necessary adjustments to your coverage.

Net metering is a billing arrangement provided by utility companies for homeowners with solar panels or other renewable energy systems. It allows you to offset your electricity consumption by producing excess electricity with your solar panels. 

When your solar panels generate more electricity than you need, the surplus is fed back into the grid, and you receive credits for the excess energy produced. These credits can be used to offset your electricity usage during times when your solar panels are not generating enough power, such as at night or on cloudy days. Net metering enables you to effectively “bank” your excess energy and use it later, helping to reduce your overall electricity costs.

Solar panels typically come with two types of warranties: a performance warranty and a product warranty. The performance warranty guarantees that the panels will maintain a certain level of electricity production over a specified period, usually 25 to 30 years. This warranty ensures that the panels will generate a minimum percentage of their rated power output throughout their lifespan.

The product warranty covers defects in the materials or workmanship of the solar panels. It typically lasts for 10 to 25 years, depending on the manufacturer. If the panels fail or experience significant drops in performance due to manufacturing defects or other issues covered by the warranty, the manufacturer will repair or replace them free of charge.

It's important to review the warranty details provided by the solar panel manufacturer or installer to understand the specific coverage and any conditions or exclusions that may apply.

Solar panels are designed to withstand various weather conditions, including storms. They are built to be durable and resistant to hail, high winds, and other environmental factors. Most reputable solar panel manufacturers conduct extensive testing to ensure their panels can withstand severe weather events.

However, in the event of an exceptionally severe storm, such as a hurricane or tornado, there is still a risk of damage to solar panels. In such cases, the extent of the damage will depend on the intensity of the storm and the specific circumstances. If your solar panels are damaged by a storm, it's important to contact your solar installer or manufacturer to assess the damage and determine the necessary repairs or replacements.

5. What happens if one of my panels is damaged?

If one of your solar panels is damaged, it is recommended to contact your solar panel installer or manufacturer to report the issue. Depending on the warranty coverage and the cause of the damage, they will provide guidance on the appropriate steps to take. If the panel is still under warranty and the damage is covered, they may repair or replace the damaged panel at no additional cost to you.

If the damage is not covered by the warranty, you may need to bear the cost of repair or replacement. It's essential to consult with your installer or manufacturer to understand the available options and associated costs.

If one of your solar panels is damaged, it is recommended to contact your solar panel installer or manufacturer to report the issue. Depending on the warranty coverage and the cause of the damage, they will provide guidance on the appropriate steps to take. If the panel is still under warranty and the damage is covered, they may repair or replace the damaged panel at no additional cost to you.

If the damage is not covered by the warranty, you may need to bear the cost of repair or replacement. It's important to consult with your installer or manufacturer to understand the available options and associated costs.

A solar ground mount refers to a mounting system used to install solar panels on the ground rather than on a roof. It is an alternative to roof-mounted solar panel installations and is commonly used when roof space is limited, the roof is not structurally suitable, or the homeowner prefers a ground-based installation.

A solar ground mount typically consists of a sturdy structure, such as metal or aluminum frames, securely anchored to the ground. The solar panels are then mounted onto these frames at an optimal tilt angle and orientation to maximize sunlight exposure. Ground-mounted systems offer flexibility in panel placement, easier access for maintenance and cleaning, and the ability to adjust the angle of the panels as needed.

If you need to replace your roof, and you have solar panels installed, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The solar panels will need to be temporarily removed from the roof to allow for the roof replacement. This involves disconnecting the electrical connections and removing the mounting hardware.

Typically, a professional solar installer or roofing contractor will handle the removal and reinstallation of the solar panels during the roof replacement process. They will ensure that the panels are safely removed, the roof is replaced or repaired, and then reinstall the panels once the new roof is in place.

It's important to communicate with both your solar installer and roofing contractor to coordinate the work and ensure a smooth transition. It may also be a good opportunity to inspect the solar panels and their mounting system for any maintenance or necessary upgrades while they are temporarily removed.

Determining whether your roof can support solar panels involves a few key factors. It's recommended to consult with a professional solar installer or a structural engineer to assess your roof's suitability. They will consider the following factors:

a. Roof Condition: The overall condition of your roof should be evaluated. If your roof is old, deteriorating, or in need of repair, it may not be suitable for solar panel installation. A sturdy and well-maintained roof is necessary to support the additional weight of the panels.

b. Roof Orientation and Tilt: The orientation and tilt of your roof play a role in maximizing solar energy generation. South-facing roofs with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees generally offer the best solar potential. However, roofs facing other directions or with different slopes can still be viable for solar panels, although the energy production may be slightly reduced.

c. Structural Load Capacity: Your roof's structural load capacity is crucial to determine if it can handle the weight of solar panels. A professional will assess the roof's construction, materials, and load-bearing capacity to ensure it meets the necessary requirements.

By consulting with a solar installer or structural engineer, you can obtain an accurate assessment of your roof's suitability for solar panel installation and identify any necessary reinforcements or modifications required to safely support the panels.