Category: Solar 101

Selling a house with solar panels can work in your favor, with many homeowners even making more money post-sale than they expected. But not all solar stories have a happy ending, as some have shared frustrating experiences when trying to close the sale.  So, what’s the real deal? Is going solar a good move if you’re planning to sell down the line? Barring all other factors, the biggest deal breaker often comes down to how you pay for your solar system. In this article, we’ll break down the three common ways for financing a solar system, so you can be prepared when it’s time to sell.

Is it easy to sell a house with solar panels?

Without looking at the complexities of the housing market, you can sell a house with solar panels pretty easily – and quickly – especially when you’re dealing with informed buyers. 

These are people who are very much aware of the benefits of solar energy and know how to take advantage of it, for instance: 

• How solar can save them hundreds of dollars on utility bills
• How they can earn extra income via Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SREC) programs and net metering benefits
• How it helps reduce carbon footprint and save the environment

Even better, many of these buyers are willing to pay thousands more for homes with solar panels. In fact, a 2019 Zillow study found that homes with roof-mounted solar panels sold for 4.1% more than comparable homes without them.

So yes, solar panels can definitely have a positive impact on your home’s resale value.

But of course, let’s take a look at the other side…

If there are informed buyers, you’ll certainly come across uninformed buyers who are shopping in the market for entirely different reasons…

These buyers are more likely to set aside the benefits of solar, and focus instead on what it “costs” them to proceed with the sale.

Will I have to assume any extra financial responsibilities? Will I get myself into more debt?

If you bought your panels outright, this shouldn’t be a problem, and you’ll likely breeze through the ownership transfer with a smile.

But if you financed your panels through a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA), things can get a little more complicated (and we’ll get into this shortly).

That said, how you paid for your solar panels matters as it can greatly impact the sale.

What to Expect When Selling A House With Solar Panels

Selling a house with solar panels isn’t all that different from any other sale. You’ll still face a few hurdles, handle buyer objections, and go through negotiations.

But, as mentioned earlier, how you finance your solar system will greatly impact how smoothly the sale process will go. Let’s take a look at what to expect for each case.

If You Bought Your Solar Panels Outright

If you paid for your solar panel system upfront, selling your home should be straightforward.

You simply factor the value of the panels into your home’s price, taking into account things like their size, lifespan, and energy production.

In the same way, buyers are likely to see it as a simple equation: house + panels = price. And since solar panels are often seen as an added bonus, similar to a renovated kitchen or bathroom, the price can be easier to justify.

In such a case where you fully own your solar panels, no loans or leases are involved, And that’s a good thing as both you and the buyer can avoid the headache of dealing with third parties like lenders or leasing companies.

If You Loaned Your Solar Panels

Loaning your solar panels is the same as buying anything on credit. You’re essentially paying over time instead of upfront. The loan stays with the system and the buyer will have to take it on if they purchase your house.

This means extra financial commitment for them – not ideal as you’re adding strain to their decision-making process…

Of course, this doesn’t mean an automatic “no”. Buyers who understand solar financing will see this as a much better option than taking on a solar lease or PPA.

Still, be prepared for buyers to request a price reduction to offset the loan balance they’ll inherit, and to engage in more negotiations. No one wants to end up with the short end of the stick, after all.

Your best option? Buy off the entire loan before listing your house.

This makes your solar panels an asset to your home instead of being perceived as a debt. Plus, without any additional strings attached, you may be able to keep negotiations a bit simpler.

If You Agreed to a Solar Lease or PPA Agreement

Here’s when things get really complicated. 

With a solar lease or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), you’re essentially renting the system for about 20 to 25 years.

In a lease, you pay a fixed monthly fee, while a PPA charges you a set rate per kWh. No upfront costs are needed, and the rates are usually lower than what utility companies charge. 

Sounds like a good deal, right?

Well, these monthly payments typically increase by 3 to 5 per cent each year. And over time, this can erase the savings you enjoyed early on.

See, these kinds of arrangements add layers of complication to the sale and make buyers walk away to look for much better deals.

As the seller, there are two ways you can go about it.

Firstly, you can spend ages trying to find a buyer who’s willing to take on the lease and monthly payments. But remember, even if a buyer agrees to it, they’ll have to pass a credit check from the solar company, which could change the outcome of the sale.

If no buyer wants to assume the solar lease or PPA, then you have only one choice – opt out of the solar panel contract and buy out your solar system. 

This will grant you full ownership of the system – but at the cost of paying a huge amount of money. In some cases, the cost of the buyout can even eat up most (or even all) of your profit from the sale of the house.

What should I disclose to potential buyers about the solar panels?

It’s your legal and ethical obligation to disclose to buyers any important details about your solar panels. This includes:

• Details of your solar panels. Buyers will want to know your system’s size and energy production to see if it meets their energy needs and to make out the potential savings they can expect.
• Warranties. Let buyers know if the panels are under warranty and what’s covered (e.g. parts, labor, or performance guarantees). A strong warranty can be a selling point, as it reduces the buyer’s long-term risks.
• Net Metering Agreements and SRECs. If you’re part of a net metering program or earn Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs), explain how it works and how they can take advantage of it as you did.
• Financing or Ownership Status. Be clear about whether the system is owned, financed, or leased. If there’s a loan or lease, explain what the buyer will need to do to take over the agreement – or if you plan to pay it off before the sale.
• Roof Condition. Especially if panels are roof-mounted, buyers will want to know if your roof can handle the panels for the long run or if repairs are needed asap.

Think of this not just as an obligation, but also as a way to market your house. The more buyers know what they’re committing to, including the benefits of your solar setup, the more they are to trust you and move forward with the sale.

Increase Your Home’s Value With Quality Solar Panels

At Avail Solar, we aim to make your transition to solar energy as easy and hassle-free as possible. We offer end-to-end solar panel services, including design, installation, and ongoing maintenance, along with personal guidance to keep you informed throughout the process

Contact us today and speak with one of our solar experts.

How great would it be to just grab some solar panels, plug them in, and start powering your home, right? But like it or not, solar permitting is a non-negotiable part of the process – it’s required by law. Sure, it may feel like extra paperwork on top of an already busy schedule. But at the end of the day, solar permits exist to provide homeowners peace of mind: They guarantee your system is reliable, up to code, and won’t cause any issues down the road. In this article, we’ll walk you through the types of permits you need, the fees involved, and what to expect when going through the application process.

Do you need a permit to install solar panels?

Yes, in most cases, you’ll need a permit to install solar panels. To be more specific, you’ll need a permit when:

• Installing a new solar system: Whether it’s grid-tied or off-grid, local authorities want to ensure the system meets code requirements.
• Expanding your current system: If you’re adding panels or upgrading components like inverters, you’ll likely need to get approval again.
• Doing major repairs or modifications: Anything affecting the structure, electrical connections, or layout might require an updated permit.

Permits act as a seal of approval, confirming your solar system’s compliance and compatibility with local building codes and utility regulations – basically, ensuring safety for everyone.

Without proper permits, utility companies won’t let you connect to the grid, and inspections can’t move forward. In short, you’ll be stuck, unable to legally or safely activate your system.

What if I operate my panels without the permits? Well, you’ll be taking a huge safety and financial risk. Legal fines are one thing, but it could also void your home insurance if an accident occurs, leaving you with no coverage.

What types of permits do I need to install solar panels?

The information provided here is general and meant to give you an overview of what to expect. Make sure to reach out to the relevant authorities directly for the most current solar permitting requirements, timelines, and documentation needed for your specific location.

Building Permit

Building permits ensure solar panels won’t compromise your home’s structural integrity.

Think of it this way. Your roof is designed to handle a certain amount of weight. If you throw on heavy solar panels without checking, you could be risking some serious damage during, say, a storm.

That said, building permits are also required for ground-mounted solar applications, taking into consideration the stability of the ground or foundation.

To secure a building permit, you would start with your city or county building department. 

Typically, you’d fill out a form and submit it in person, but some cities offer online platforms like SolarApp+, which is faster and more convenient.

You can expect them to ask these things from you:

• Permit application form (filled out completely)
• Site plan with the exact location of the solar panels
• Structural engineering report (for roof-mounted solar panels)
• Electrical drawings
• Foundation or mounting specs
• Technical data sheet for all electrical equipment

Utility Permit

Also called interconnection permit, this ensures your system can safely connect to the grid and follows electrical codes to avoid issues like overloaded circuits or fires.

To secure a utility permit, you’ll have to contact your utility company and sign an interconnection agreement. 

Expect to discuss these things with your utility company:

• Your solar system, including type (roof- or ground-mounted), size, technical specifications, etc.
• Load calculations and electrical diagrams
• Net-metering rules
• Necessity for any engineering assessments before approval

You may be able to do this online if a website or app is available.

Zoning Permit

While zoning permits are often bundled with building permit applications, some cities or counties may require them separately. 

These permits ensure your installation doesn’t violate local regulations, particularly those related to aesthetics, environmental concerns, and impact on the area.

For instance, certain local laws may restrict the placement of ground-mounted panels too close to property lines or prohibit them from being too visible from the street (typically in historical districts).

To get a zoning permit, contact your local zoning office or planning department. 

Generally, you’ll be asked to fill out a zoning compliance form and provide a site plan that reflects the proposed panels’ location relative to your property boundaries.

Depending on your location, you may also be required to provide additional documents or approvals, such as an environmental review or a visual rendering of your property.

Fire Permit

Similar to zoning permits, some locations may require a separate fire permit in addition to your building permits. For example, the city of Phoenix mandates this step.

In most cases, you’ll be required to fill out a form from your local fire department and provide basic details such as your property’s size and the number of stories. You may also need to submit plans of your residential property.

If there are any specific requirements, the fire department will outline them for you.

HOA Approvals

Although not technically a permit, many neighborhoods with active Homeowners Associations (HOAs) have strict guidelines that apply to solar panel installations. 

These rules usually focus on where panels can be placed and how they should look, ensuring consistency in the neighborhood’s appearance and safety.

You should reach out to your HOA board to get details on the specific approval requirements for your solar installation.

That said, HOAs don’t always have the final say. Many states have laws that limit their power to block solar panel installations, so it’s worth looking into it if they’re getting in your way.

Permitting Fees

Applying for solar permits involves paying fees, which can vary based on the size of your solar system and your local jurisdiction. Some areas have set limits on solar permitting fees, while others have different methods for determining them. 

Generally speaking, you might expect to pay around $300 for a residential application, although costs can go as high as $1,000, depending on where you live.

How long does it take to get a solar permit approved?

Solar permit approval times can vary quite a bit. We’ve seen approvals take anywhere from about a week to as long as five months.

If your permit seems to be taking longer than a friend’s – despite you both submitting everything correctly – there’s not much to do but wait. The reality is that approval times are influenced by factors out of your control, like how busy your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) is.

If it makes it any easier, think of permit applications as a complex process where authorities thoroughly review the design, interconnection, and engineering of your solar system. Delays are often just part of the process.

Do I have to apply for these permits separately?

In many cases, you’ll need to apply separately for each of the permits required for solar installation. However, some states and cities with solar-friendly initiatives have established streamlined processes, where multiple permits can be handled in one submission.

Take SolarAPP+, for example, which is widely used in states like California and Texas. It provides a user-friendly digital process and even uses automated reviews to approve permit applications quickly.

Meanwhile, cities like Portland and Miami offer their own digital platforms – DevHub and iBuild, respectively – designed to make solar permit applications more efficient.

Contact your local authorities or check online to see if such arrangements apply where you’re residing.

What to Expect After Applying for a Solar Permit

After you’ve submitted your solar application permits, local authorities will thoroughly review them. You might be asked to clarify information, provide additional documents, and be present for possible site inspections.

Once your permits are approved, you’re cleared to begin installing your solar panels. Generally, if your system is off-grid, you can start using your panels right away after installation.

For grid-tied systems, however, you must complete the interconnection process with your utility company. 

Once the necessary steps, such as inspections and metering adjustments, are completed, the utility company will issue a Permission to Operate (PTO) letter. This officially grants you the go-ahead to power up your solar system and begin generating electricity.

What should I do if my solar permit application is denied?

If your solar permit application gets denied, the first step is to figure out why. Start by reviewing the feedback from your local authority, as they’ll usually explain the reason for the rejection.

In most cases, the issue is something fixable, like missing paperwork or incomplete forms. Non-compliant system designs can also lead to denial, but it rarely happens, especially if you’re working with a reputable solar installer.

Once you understand the problem, address the specific issue and resubmit your application.

Sometimes, mistakes happen on their end. For example, if you’ve included the documents that the authority claims are missing, you can appeal the decision to have your application reviewed again.

Do I still need a permit for off-grid solar?

In some areas, you might not need a permit for off-grid solar systems. For example, Salt Lake City regulations state that off-grid systems are exempt from utility interconnection permits.

However, even if you’re exempt from utility permits, you’ll still likely need to obtain the other necessary permits, such as building or zoning permits.

To be sure, always check with your local regulations before proceeding.

Can I apply for solar permits DIY?

Yes, you can apply for solar permits DIY provided your local regulations allow it. Otherwise, you will need to have an approved solar installer do it on your behalf – which is the case for Washington City, Utah.

If your area happens to grant owner-builder permits, the matter then becomes whether or not you should apply for the permits yourself. 

To help you decide, here’s a comparison of what it costs you to apply for solar permits yourself versus having a solar installer take care of it:

Do-It-Yourself (DIY)

• You’ll need to research your local AHJs or visit their websites to understand the specific requirements.
• If your plans need official engineering stamps, you’ll have to hire professionals for that.
• You’ll be responsible for filling out the application, tracking its progress, and communicating with AHJs during the review process.
• You’ll need to be physically present during site inspections.

With a Solar Installer

• The installer likely already has a relationship with your AHJ, which could help speed up the process.
• They’ll handle the technical details and explain everything in simple terms, so you don’t have to worry about confusing jargon.
• You’ll be more hands-off, as the installer will take care of all the paperwork, official stamps, communication with AHJs, site inspections, etc.

We Offer A “Hands-Off” Solar Permit Application Process

At Avail Solar, we take care of all permit applications as part of our holistic solar installation package. That means you’ll get an efficient solar system to power your home without the hassle of dealing with permits or navigating local regulations.

All you need to do is ask us any questions and sign the necessary paperwork – it’s that simple! Feel free to contact us and talk with one of our solar experts today.

A solar system can save you money on electricity bills, but how much you save also depends on getting the right number of solar batteries for your home…  After all, you wouldn’t want to overbuy and spend more than necessary, right? That’s not really saving! In this article, we’ll break down how many solar batteries are needed for your home, the factors that affect this number, and how you can calculate the right amount based on your own energy consumption. 

How many solar batteries are needed to power a house?

In most cases, a single 10kWh battery is enough to power a house. This is because many homeowners rely on net metering agreements, which reduce the need for multiple batteries

A study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory even found that one 10 kWh battery could keep a house running for up to 3 days, provided only essential household items are to be used.

But of course, every household has unique energy needs and goals. You can use the ballpark numbers below as a starting point to help you determine the right number of batteries for your specific situation.

Two (2) Solar Batteries for “Load Shifting” Purposes

Load shifting is when you’re storing solar energy during the day (or using the much cheaper off-peak energy from the grid) to power your home during peak hours – usually around late afternoon to evening when household energy usage spikes.  

Likely, your goal is to save money by avoiding paying for the more expensive time-of-use (TOU) rate during these peak hours.

Two 10 kWh solar batteries should comfortably be enough to meet your energy needs for about 5 to 6 hours daily.

Alternatively, you could choose a consumption-only battery. It functions like a regular solar battery but doesn’t provide backup power during outages, making it a more budget-friendly choice if backup capabilities aren’t a priority for you.

Three (3) Solar Batteries for Backup Power

The same study by Berkeley Laboratory earlier shows that 30 kWh worth of stored energy is enough to power essential household appliances, including cooling and heating.

This means that having three 10 kWh solar batteries should give you the confidence that your home will stay fully powered – almost as if the outage never happened.

Nine (9) Solar Batteries for Full Off-Grid Application

If you’re planning to go 100% off the grid, you’ll have to think beyond your daily energy use. You’ll also need to account for power inefficiencies, occasional peak loads, and unpredictable weather conditions.

Let’s take the US Energy Information Administration’s data on the average household energy use: roughly 30 kWh per day. 

Following off-grid best practices, your system should have enough stored energy to last an extra two days without charging. This bumps your total energy requirement to 90 kWh.

Considering typical lithium-ion batteries have a capacity of about 10 kWh, this means you would need about 9 batteries (90÷10). To be on the conservative side, you might decide to go with 12 batteries in total.

Factors That Affect Solar Battery Quantity

Calculating your exact energy consumption is far better than relying on our estimates earlier. To get accurate results, though, you first need to understand the key factors that influence the quantity.

Your Household’s Energy Usage

When we talk about household energy usage, it’s more about how energy-intensive your appliances are than the number of people in your home.

Are you only powering essentials like a refrigerator and a few small devices? Or do you have larger energy demands, such as electric heating or a pool pump? Homes with higher energy needs will naturally require more storage.

Size of Your Home

Instinctively, the larger your home or property, the more energy it will consume. But beyond that, it also affects how much solar energy you can harness, produce, and store…

With more roof space or open land, you can fit more solar panels and produce more energy. 

On the other hand, a smaller roof or limited space leads to a smaller solar panel system, putting a cap on the amount of power you can generate.

In this case, installing multiple batteries or a large one is only a waste of money if you can’t produce enough energy to charge them or use their full capacity.

Battery Capacity

Battery capacity is essentially how much energy a single battery can store.

If you need 30 kWh of stored power, it’s logical to choose a single 30 kWh battery. However, you could go with three 10 kWh batteries, which would give you the same total capacity and work just as well.

Ultimately, it boils down to how big your storage space is (more on this later).

Utility Electricity Rate

Your electricity rate arrangement can alter your energy goals, which in turn affects how many batteries you’ll need.

If you’re on a flat-rate electricity plan, you’ll want to store as much energy as you can to reduce your grid electricity bills.

For a variable-rate plan (like time-of-use), you’ll need enough storage to avoid high rates during peak hours, like evenings. 

If you happen to live in one of the states supporting net metering programs, you may be thinking of “selling” any excess energy back to the grid. In this case, you may want to invest in more battery storage.

How to Calculate the Number of Solar Batteries for Your Home

Calculating based on your specific energy consumption should help you avoid overestimating or underestimating your needs and give you a better sense of your investment. Here’s how to do it in 3 steps:

Step 1: Determine Your Energy Consumption

Begin by recalling your energy goals.

If you’re looking to use solar batteries to avoid expensive time-of-use rates or as backup power for short outages, you’ll need to perform a load analysis:

• List all the appliances you plan to use, including their power ratings (in watts).

To help you with this, here’s a guide on typical wattage estimates for common household appliances. If you have an energy monitoring system, this can give you more accurate appliance-specific data.

• Note how many hours you will use each appliance.
• Calculate the watt-hours by multiplying wattage and hours.

Say, peak hours or outages last for 5 hours. You might come up with something like this:

If you plan to go off-grid, you can use the same load analysis method to calculate your daily energy consumption. Alternatively, you can check your past electricity bill for the total kWh used in a month and divide that by 30 (days).

Once you have that number, multiply it by the number of days you want your system to last without recharging.

For example, if your bill shows 900 kWh for the month, your daily usage is 30 kWh. So, for 3 days of autonomy, you’ll need 90 kWh (30 kWh x 3 days) of energy storage.

Step 2: Choose a Battery Size

Basically, you need to at least, match the total kWh requirement from your load analysis.

In our earlier analysis, the total consumption is 2,285 W (2.3 kWh). A single 5 kWh would easily cover this. Although, a 10 kWh would provide extra capacity and further reduce your reliance to the grid.

Now, one thing you must never overlook in this step is your battery’s depth of discharge (DoD) or usable energy (you should find this info easily in the battery’s cut sheet). This percentage tells you how much of the battery’s total capacity you can safely discharge.

Let’s take a scenario with a much larger energy need, say 24 kWh. 

If you choose a single 24 kWh battery with 100% DoD, it will meet your energy requirement perfectly.

However, if the battery has an 80% DoD, it would only provide you with 19.2 kWh (24 x 0.8) of usable power – not enough for your 24 kWh requirement.

In this case, you’d need a larger battery, like one with 30 kWh capacity. With 80% DoD, that would deliver exactly 24 kWh of power.

Step 3: Consider Storage Space for Your Batteries

Lastly, when deciding the size of your battery, make sure your batteries physically fit into your storage area.

Let’s go back to our scenario earlier with a 24 kWh energy requirement. Here, you have two options:

• If you have limited storage space: Opt for fewer, higher-capacity batteries. In this case, you can install one 24 kWh battery.
• If you have ample storage space: Use multiple solar batteries, like two 12 kWh batteries or three 8 kWh batteries. This can sometimes make your system more modular and easier to expand later.

Can I start with fewer batteries and add more later if needed?

Generally, you can start with fewer batteries and add more later, provided that:

• Your existing solar setup is compatible with the additional batteries and can handle it without significant modifications (e.g. major rewiring, inverter upgrades, etc.).
• New batteries are added early in the lifespan of the existing ones (ideally within the first 1/3 of their lifespan), to avoid issues with natural degradation.

It’s best to consult with a professional solar installer in such cases. Better yet, have everything set up completely from the start to minimize the need for future adjustments.

Professional Solar Design to Power Your Home

At Avail Solar, you won’t have to worry about manual calculations – our experts will assess your home energy goals and handle all the details, from battery sizing to system integration.

Contact us today to speak with one of our solar experts.

“Solar batteries wear out too quickly!”, sounds like a reason to second guess installing solar, right? Fortunately, they’re nothing like those AA batteries you throw in your kids’ toys or use for your TV remote. Solar batteries are designed to last much longer, taking several years before they start to show any decline. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how long a solar battery can last, the factors that affect its longevity, and practical tips on how you can help “extend” its lifespan.

How Long Do Solar Batteries Last?

Modern home solar batteries are built to last between 10 to 15 years, thanks to advancements in lithium-ion technology. In particular, these two battery types: Lithium-ion (or NMC) batteries and lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries.

In fact, many battery manufacturers are so confident in their performance that they offer warranties of 10 years or more.

This is a huge upgrade compared to the older, less efficient lead-acid solar batteries which only last 5 to 7 years (and have mostly been phased out).

Considering solar panels have a life expectancy of 30 to 35 years, a solar battery should only need replacing about twice over your panel’s lifespan – a pretty hands-off setup, if you ask us.

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Solar Batteries

Solar batteries degrade at different rates, and while it might seem like battery type alone (such as lithium-ion versus lead-acid) is the key reason, there’s actually more to it than that.

Depth of Discharge (DoD)

Depth of Discharge (DoD) refers to how much of the battery’s energy you can use before it needs to be recharged. The further you discharge the battery, the more strain it puts on the system, which can lead to quicker wear and tear – and ultimately, a shorter lifespan.

For comparison’s sake, let’s take a look at how lithium-ion batteries fare against the older lead-acid batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries usually have a DoD of around 90%, although, some batteries, take it up a notch higher. For instance, the SolarEdge Battery, one of the more reliable battery brands Avail Solar installs and recommends, boasts a 100% DoD.

Source: SolarEdge Battery Data Sheet

That means you can use the entire capacity (9.7 kWh in this case) without damaging the battery.

On the other hand, lead-acid batteries have a much lower DoD of about 50%. This means you get less usable energy per charge, and they’re more prone to wear and tear over time.

Battery Usage Intensity

Probably the one that makes sense in a snap – If you rely heavily on solar to power your entire home every night, like in off-grid systems, you’re cycling the battery every single day. As a result, your battery will reach its end of life much faster…

Much like how our phones and gadgets don’t hold a charge as well after a couple of years of heavy use.

If you’re using your solar battery just as a backup for power outages or emergencies, you won’t be cycling it as often. This means fewer charges and discharges, which helps extend the battery’s longevity.

Environment

Both extremely cold and hot conditions can take a toll on your solar battery over time. At the heart of it, it’s all about chemistry.

In cold temperatures, the chemical reactions inside the battery slow down. This makes it harder for the battery to charge and release power, and over time, it can reduce the capacity.

On the flip side, excessive heat speeds up wear and tear, making the battery lose its capacity.

“I’ll just put it in the garage then…” Sure, that might work – generally speaking. But here’s the catch:

• A garage without proper insulation can drop to freezing temperatures, affecting the solar battery.
• A garage without good airflow or ventilation can cause temperatures to right too high, potentially leading to overheating.

The good news is that solar battery manufacturers often specify safe temperature ranges in their manuals. 

For example, Solar Edge outlines safe temperature ranges and even includes recommendations on where not to place solar batteries in their installation manual.

Source: SolarEdge Battery Installation Guide

So, you should be able to get a clearer idea of the best spots in your home to store your battery and what changes you can make to keep it within those optimal conditions.

Tips to Make Your Home Solar Batteries Last Longer

Yes, solar batteries don’t last forever. But there are some smart moves you can make to utilize the expected lifespan of a battery and ensure you won’t face any significant performance dips or early failures.

1. Stick to the Manufacturer’s Depth of Discharge (DoD)

As mentioned earlier, this is the percentage of its charge you can safely use before it needs recharging. Check your battery’s manual to see the recommended levels to keep wear and tear at a minimum.

2. Store your battery in a place with stable temperatures.

Aim to store your battery in a place where temperatures are steady, ideally between 50°F and 77°F (10°C to 25°C).

Good options include a well-ventilated garage, basement, or a temperature-controlled shed. If stored outdoors, make sure it’s in a shaded area with proper airflow.

Avoid placing your battery in direct sunlight or near appliances that generate heat.

3. Monitor battery health regularly.

If your battery comes with an app or monitoring system, download and set it up. Check the app routinely so you can catch any issues like unusual discharge rates or overheating.

4. Use your batteries wisely.

As much as you want to run your entire home on solar power alone, doing so can put a lot of strain on your battery. If possible, try setting limits on usage. You might configure it to only power the essential appliances during the night or when the sun isn’t shining.

5. Check your battery’s terminals and cables every few months. 

If you notice any dust, dirt, or corrosion, clean them gently to maintain good conductivity. Do not use solvents or any harsh chemicals, as they may be flammable and damaging to the battery.

FAQs on Solar Batteries

What happens to a solar battery’s capacity over time?

Just because a solar battery is rated to last up to 15 years, doesn’t mean it’ll perform with the same efficiency from year 1 all the way to year 15. In reality, solar batteries naturally lose some capacity each year and they’ll hold a little less charge over time.

And that’s because each time your battery charges and discharges, it uses a bit of its “life” – a cycle, as we call it. This cycling slowly reduces how much energy it can hold. 

For solar batteries, this capacity loss is gradual, but you might notice a difference around year 5 or so. Around year 10, a solar battery will have lost about 30% of its original capacity, leaving you with 70% working capacity.

How do I know if my solar battery is nearing its lifespan?

You can spot a solar battery nearing its end through a few clear signs:

• Significant reduction in storage capacity. For example, if your battery used to store enough power for your home to last through the night, but now only lasts a few hours.
• Frequent need for recharging, even under similar conditions and energy usage
• Longer charging times
• Sudden shutdowns, especially under heavy load
• Warning from the battery management system, which may indicate that the battery may need to be replaced soon.
• Physical issues, like swelling, leaks, and corrosion, which suggest internal degradation

How many hours does a fully charged solar battery last?

We’ve talked about a solar battery’s lifespan in terms of years, but how long it lasts on a single charge is another matter. How long a fully charged solar battery will last varies, depending on two primary factors:

• Battery capacity

The battery’s capacity, usually measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), determines how much energy it can hold. For example, a 10 kWh battery can theoretically power 10 kW of devices for one hour or 1 kW for 10 hours.

• Household energy use

Smaller appliances like LED bulbs, refrigerators, routers, and laptops won’t eat up much power. But if you’re also powering energy-hungry devices like microwaves, HVAC systems, or space heaters, your battery will drain much faster. Make sure to examine and calculate your energy consumption to get a better sense of your needs.

If you haven’t installed solar panels yet, maybe you’re thinking, they must be a hassle to keep clean. We’ve even heard new (and even old) homeowners say “Wait, what? You need to clean them?” (Spoiler alert: Yes, it’s necessary.) To make it perfectly clear, solar panel cleaning is not as complicated as it sounds. In fact, here’s why you don’t need to stress:

• There’s no need to call a professional (​​you can do it yourself)
• It’s quick and easy (think 20 minutes, like having a quick lunch break).
• You probably already have most of the tools you need lying around at home (saving you a trip to the nearest depot).

Do I Need to Clean My Solar Panels

Yes, you need to clean your solar panels to clear away dust, debris, dirt, grime, bird poop, pollen, and other residues that can block sunlight and prevent your panels from efficiently converting solar energy into electricity…

Because generally, less sunlight = less power generated.

Alex Beale, renowned DIY solar enthusiast and owner of FootPrint Hero, even ran his own experiment on his home panels, finding an average 8.9% increase in power output after cleaning them.

That said, solar panel cleaning is definitely worth it. You can avoid energy losses and save money, especially if electricity is pricier in your area.

How to Clean Solar Panels

Cleaning your solar panels is simple and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. A light rinse may only take about 20 minutes, but if you’ve got a lot of dust or grime, it could take closer to an hour. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare your tools and materials:
   • Garden hose
   • Tap Water supply
   • Soft bristle brush
   • Squeegee
   • Ladder (for roof solar panels)
2. Shut off your solar panel system to ensure safety.
3. Rinse off loose dust and dirt with your garden hose. Let the water flow gently – DO NOT use high pressure, as this may damage your panels.
4. Scrub the remaining grime with the soft bristle brush. Rub gently against the glass to avoid scratching the surface.
5. Rinse again to fully wash away any leftover dirt.
6. Use a squeegee to clear any remaining water and avoid water spots. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it’s a good way to keep the glass clean and perfect.
   

Tips for Cleaning Solar Panels: Do’s and Don’ts

Before you jump straight into cleaning your solar panels, be aware of these do’s and don’ts. They’ll help you protect your solar panels and extend their lifespan.

DO:

• Make sure your garden hose comfortably reaches your panels.
• Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on cleaning your solar panel system (This can help you maintain your warranty).
• Check that your cleaning materials are in good condition and free from any stuck debris or loose parts that might scratch the panel surface.

DO NOT:

• Do not use chemical solutions, coatings, detergents, or soaps. Solar panels come with specialized coatings and glass, and these can be damaged by these substances, reducing your panels’ efficiency.

(Just to share, we’ve found that the panels in the worst condition often belong to owners who’ve used these very products we’ve warned you about.)

• Do not clean your panels when it’s scorching hot outside. You don’t want to spray cold water on those hot panels as this can cause thermal shock and might crack the glass. Aim to clean in the morning when it’s cooler.

• Do not expose yourself to the blazing sun in high temperatures – it’s also a serious health risk.

Safety Considerations for DIY Solar Panel Cleaning

We considered putting safety tips in the last section’s DOs, but decided it deserved its own dedicated section – because, even though cleaning solar panels seems simple, it does come with some risks. 

After all, you’re working with an electrical setup. And if you are cleaning solar panels on roof, there’s the added concern of heights. Here are some key precautions for a safe cleaning experience:

• Before you start, ALWAYS  turn off your solar panel system. Even though solar panels aren’t as high-voltage as other electrical setups, they still carry some current.
• Set up your ladder on stable, level ground. If possible, use a ladder stabilizer to keep it steady and avoid any wobbling.
• When climbing, follow the rule we use for rooftop installations: maintain three points of contact – ideally two hands and one foot – to help you stay balanced.
• If you can, get an assistant to help you. They can hold the ladder steady, hand you tools, or spot you for safety.
• Avoid cleaning during high winds, rain, or intense heat.
• Set aside a dedicated space for your tools and supplies, away from the ladder and other walkways, to prevent tripping tripping or knocking anything over.

Look. We completely agree with UC San Diego engineers who in a study concluded that hiring someone to clean your solar panels isn’t usually worth it…

BUT – if heights make you uneasy or you simply prefer a hands-off approach, don’t hesitate to call a professional. It’s also worth checking if your installer offers regular maintenance as part of the package – and if so, take advantage of that!

How Often Should You Clean Solar Panels?

You should clean your solar panels every now and then – especially if you live in areas with high soiling loss risks. These are regions where there’s a lot of particulate matter like dust and sand, and not much rain to wash it away.

For example, based on a SolarAnywhere study, parts of the US West Coast are prone to soiling loss.

Now, if you’re one who prefers to take advice with a grain of salt and do a little digging yourself, you’ll probably come across all sorts of suggestions for cleaning frequency…

Some will say twice a year, others recommend every six months, and some people never clean their panels at all! So, what’s the real answer?

The truth is, all of these recommendations have a valid basis. Let’s peel the layers and look into these factors: 

• Geographic Location: In areas with regular rain, some people just “leave it to Mother Nature”. They get a natural rinse, and they don’t have to do the cleaning themselves.

• Landscaping: If your panels are installed far from trees, pollen, or heavy bird activity, you may get away with minimal cleaning.

• Roof Pitch: Some homeowners swear by “letting nature handle it” because of the angle of their roof (often without realizing it). Steep roofs allow rain to naturally wash panels more effectively, meaning a less frequent cleaning schedule could work fine.

So, while all these answers are valid, your own needs depend on what’s around your panels.

FAQs on Solar Panel Cleaning

What is the best tool to clean solar panels with?

The best tools to clean solar panels with are garden hose, tap water, and soft bristle brush. Even rinsing with water does the job of keeping your panel’s photovoltaic (PV) production at its peak. So, no fancy products or chemicals are needed as these can damage your panels.

How to clean solar panels from snow?

To clean snow off solar panels, allow the snow to melt and slide off naturally, guided by the panels tilt If the snow persists, use a solar panel snow rake to safely remove it – not a standard broom or shovel as these can scratch the panels.

Is there a way to clean roof-mounted solar panels automatically?

Yes, there are automatic cleaning systems built into solar panels that use solar energy to clean them. These systems gently spray water or create a stream over the panels, all controlled from inside your home. However, this option may not be budget-friendly for residential applications.

Does cleaning my solar panels void my warranty?

Cleaning your solar panels won’t void your warranty provided you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. This is why we recommend avoiding putting specialized coating or other harsh chemicals and abrasive tools as these may accidentally damage the panels.