Home Solar Power System Tips During Monsoon Season

Monsoon season started later than usual this year, but it’s definitely here now – and for the next couple of months. This weather pattern is unique – pulling in moisture from the Gulf to create periods of heavy rainfall and major dust storms.

While most homeowners are very aware of monsoon season, many are unprepared when storms hit. And for those with home solar power systems, being caught off guard can mean a loss of power and damage to panels. So, with the storms now here, we thought it was a good time to share some basic reminders and tips to help keep you, your home and your solar power system safe.

Trim Trees

With monsoon storms come heavy gusts that can cause trees to easily snap and break. Make it a regular task to cut back plants and trees that can land on your roof and damage solar panels.

Secure Your Yard

Wind can also cause backyard items to take flight – things like umbrellas, pool toys and patio furniture. Before storms hit, secure items that you have lying around.

Check Your Roof

With roofing and solar panels, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Don’t wait for a leak to get a roof inspection and make repairs if they’re needed.

Rinse Off Panels

Following a dust storm, your solar panels will likely be covered in dust or mud (if it also rained). This residue can cause panels to lose efficiency and reduce your ability to produce electricity. Once a storm has subsided, check out panels and hose them down as needed. In some cases, you may need to use a soft brush to clean them and return them to a full-functioning state.

Be Prepared for a Power Loss

While you’re much less likely to suffer from a power loss when you have a home solar power system, there is always the possibility. Thus, it’s always a good idea to have an emergency kit handy if you lose electricity for a few hours. Pack a flashlight, batteries, candles and matches. The Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs also suggests having on hand extra food, water, a radio and medical supplies.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Even with the extra protection that a solar power system provides, a little advanced planning and proactive maintenance can go a long way to keeping you up and running throughout monsoon season.

FAQ's

Is Solar Energy Expensive?

The size of your panel installation and the needs of your home will affect your costs. The average net cost of a 5.69kW system is $13,838 cash after 30% rebate (according to solar-estimate.org). An average-sized system can cost up to $35,000. Larger installations will require more hardware, planning and construction time. This can further increase costs. While solar panels are expensive, they have many distinct benefits. Cool Blew Electric & Solar’s experts can assess your situation and goals and recommend a cost-effective system to meet your needs.

How Much Can I Save By Installing Solar Panels?

An average-sized system (5 kilowatts) can reduce up to 50% of your monthly electricity bill. A 5.69kW system would offset 100% of your energy usage if your typical monthly bill is $138. Over a period of 20 years, these savings can add up to $30,000, based on your location and energy usage.

How Long Would It Take to Recoup My Solar Investment by Solar Energy Savings?

With a 5.69kW Solar system you would recoup your savings in 7 years and 2 months but with continuous Utility increases every year your Return and Investment will be much sooner.

What is a Solar Lease Program?

The Solar Lease Program has been one the most popular option that homeowners have chosen over the years. Solar Lease programs gives homeowners the opportunity to take advantage and put Solar on their homes and a guaranteed savings from their Utility for little to no money out of pocket. Most Leases are 20 year power guarantee from the solar provider and includes fixed monthly payments, no repair cost, fully insured and warrantied for the life of the system.

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