Prepare Your Rooftop Solar Panels for the Summer

With the sun at its highest position in the sky during the summer months, your solar panels absorb more direct sunlight than at any other time of the year. In other words, your solar system will be working at high capacity, enabling you to generate more energy. Yet, with the summer comes weather issues which can hinder performance. With the following strategies, you can protect your system during this brightest time of the year.

Preventive Maintenance

Just as with any mechanical or electrical system, maintenance is necessary to sustain operational efficiency. After our unusually wet winter and spring, you want to catch any potential issues before they impact production. The best place to start is with a physical inspection of the panels and system. A solar service technician can identify any potential problems and make the necessary adjustments or repairs.

Panel Cleaning

Solar panels can collect dust, pollen, bird droppings and dirt. Although rain can wash off panels, it also can cause debris to stick to them. In a recent study, solar panels with a typical tilt of 30 degrees can experience a loss of power of up to five percent due to the build-up of dirt, pollen and dust. This is why panel cleaning is so important.

Often, a spray with a garden hose is enough to clean panels. However, if there is a large accumulation, you may need to use warm water and soap. Make sure to clean the surface with a soft cloth or sponge to avoid scratching the panels and take extra precautions when climbing on your roof. You can also choose to play it absolutely safe by calling a professional to clean the panels.

Installing a solar energy system is a sound investment. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your equipment, it’s essential to schedule regular inspections and maintenance. With the summer season upon us, it’s an ideal time to consider the upcoming weather and elements that have an impact on your system’s production and make sure that your system is ready to capture all the value that the sun has to offer.

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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