Frequently Asked Questions About Going Solar
Making the switch to renewable energy is exciting and likely raises a few questions. Here are some frequently asked questions you might already be thinking about as you consider embarking on your solar journey.
Whether you're hoping to reduce your energy footprint or are eager to offset your electricity bills, these questions are a great launching point for any solar project.
Solar products and services we provide range from; residential and commercial installations, off-grid projects, maintenance and service (even if your system wasn't installed by us), solar expansion of existing arrays, and battery backup. We operate and serve throughout Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho.
Have other questions? Don't hesitate to reach out at info@sundogsolar.biz or give us a call at 307-265-3009.
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Can you put solar panels on a metal roof?
Yes, solar panels can be installed on metal roofs. However, the type of metal roof and its condition will affect the installation process. Our team can install solar panels on different types of roofs.
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How heavy are solar panels?
Most residential solar panels weigh between 40 to 60 pounds (18 to 27 kg) each. The exact weight can vary depending on the size, frame material, and technology of the panel. Our engineer will evaluate your roof structure and condition to ensure safe mounting.
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How many solar panels can I fit on my roof or how many solar panels do I need for self-sufficiency?
The total number depends on many factors:
- Roof Size: Measure your roof's usable space, accounting for obstacles like chimneys, vents, or skylights.
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Panel Size: Standard residential panels are about 65 x 39 inches, but this can vary.
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Roof Pitch and Orientation: South-facing, steep-pitched roofs can fit fewer panels than flatter or less optimally oriented ones, but efficiency might differ.
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Shading: Panels should be installed in unshaded areas for maximum efficiency.
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How long does it take to install solar or how long does it take to install solar panels?
Several factors can influence how long the installation takes:
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Size of the System: More panels mean more time.
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Roof Type: Metal roofs with standing seams might be quicker than complex tiled or shingled roofs where each panel needs to be secured individually.
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Mounting System: Non-penetrative mounts on standing seam roofs are faster than traditional methods involving drilling.
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Weather: Installation can't proceed in severe weather conditions.
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Permitting: Time spent waiting for permits can extend the overall project timeline.
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Electrical Work: If significant electrical upgrades or reconfigurations are needed, this can add time.
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Smaller systems generally go faster while larger, more complex solar systems take longer.
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Will my roof work for solar?
Not every roof is ideal for solar panels, but many can be adapted. Here's what to consider:
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Pitch: A south-facing roof with a pitch between 15° and 40° is optimal in the Northern Hemisphere.
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Material: Metal, tile, asphalt shingle, and flat roofs can work, but standing seam metal roofs are often easiest for installation due to non-penetrative mounting options.
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Age: If your roof is near the end of its life, it might be better to replace it before installing solar to avoid removal costs later.
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Direction: South facing is ideal for maximum solar gain in the Northern Hemisphere.
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How do I know if my solar panels are working properly?
We utilize Enphase products which has an online portal or app to monitor performance in real-time.
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What happens if there is snow on my solar panels?
Snow can significantly reduce the efficiency of solar panels by blocking sunlight. The amount of reduction depends on how much of the panel is covered.
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How long will solar panels last?
Solar panels can produce power for 30-50 years and manufacturers warranty power output for 25 years.
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Do solar panels need a lot of maintenance?
With no moving parts, solar panels do require some maintenance, it's generally simple and infrequent, making them a low-maintenance option for generating electricity.
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What are the financial benefits of installing solar energy in my home?
- Reduced Electricity Bills: Solar panels generate your own electricity, significantly cutting or eliminating your dependency on grid-supplied power.
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Net Metering: In many areas, you get credits for any excess power you feed back into the grid, which can offset your bill even further.
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Increased Property Value: Homes with solar installations often see an increase in property value, potentially offering a better return on investment if you sell.
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What are the environmental benefits of solar energy?
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Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Solar panels produce electricity without emitting carbon dioxide (CO2) or other harmful greenhouse gases, helping combat climate change.
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Decreases Air Pollution: Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy doesn't release pollutants like sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), or particulate matter, improving air quality and public health.
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Conserves Natural Resources: Solar energy reduces the need for finite resources like coal, oil, and natural gas, preserving them for future generations.
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How can I figure out how much energy my home uses?
Review Your Electricity Bills: They provide a monthly breakdown of kilowatt-hours (kWh) used. Look for usage data over several months to see patterns or seasonal changes.
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How does solar on my home interact with the utility grid?
Excess energy is sent back to the grid, and you typically receive credits on your electricity bill for the energy you export. These credits can offset your usage during times when your panels aren't producing, like at night or on cloudy days.
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How do solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work?
Solar panels absorb the sun's energy and turn it into Direct Current (DC) electricity. Since most homes and appliances run off of Alternating Current (AC) electricity, the DC electricity from the panels has to pass through an inverter and be converted to AC electricity. The converted AC electricity can then be used throughout the home, stored in a backup battery, or fed back onto the electric grid. Check out our Instagram for videos explaining different aspects of solar technology.
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Do my solar panels produce power when the sun isn't shining?
Direct Sunlight Needed: Solar panels primarily generate electricity through the photovoltaic effect, which requires sunlight. Without sunlight, they do not produce power.
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