Solar Panel Safety

Like with any household electrical appliance, there are certain risks when it comes to solar panels. However, these risks are minimal and can be mitigated by ensuring installation is executed by a trained, experienced technician and by practicing some simple safety measures.

First and foremost, solar panels rarely cause any safety concerns for homeowners. While electrical surges for grid-tied homes can happen, most homes have equipment in place to prevent any damage from occurring. In a 2013 study, research showed that only .006% of photovoltaic systems caused a fire, and only one in five of those fires resulted in significant damage. In other words, fire is an extremely rare occurrence. And, in the very unlikely case that your solar panels caused a fire, your solar panel warranty and/or home warranty would cover any damaged incurred.

Safety Equipment

To protect your solar power system from electrical surges, your home’s electrical panel can be updated to include a whole-house surge protector. These devices work by detecting voltage spikes and diverting excess current through a ground path.

All rooftop solar power systems are also equipped with a “rapid shutdown mechanism” which is triggered when AC current is no longer flowing to inverters. This prevents any harm or injury to first responders if there ever is a fire. With the ability to shut down electrical systems which are connected to panels, firefighters can put out a fire and minimize damage to your panels and to your home.

Choose the Right Solar Installer

When it comes to solar power system installers, you have many options in the Phoenix area. However, when you consider the importance of safety, you want to choose an installer who has proven experience and expertise. At Cool Blew Solar, we put safety first. Learn more about safety and solar by calling us at 623-234-2836.

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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