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You probably already know that solar batteries let you store extra energy for later use, whether it’s for nighttime or during power outages.  But when you start looking into energy storage options, you’ll quickly realize a variety of solar batteries out there. And, like most homeowners, you might find yourself wondering: “Which one is the best fit for my home?” In this article, I’ll guide you through the different types of solar batteries so you can make the right choice. I’ll also touch on other important comparisons to help you better understand what’s out there.

Types of Solar Batteries for Homes

When we talk about solar battery types, we’re really talking about battery chemistry – the materials inside the battery that determine its performance, lifespan, and efficiency.

Lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are today’s standard for home solar storage.

These batteries use lithium-based compounds in their electrodes and an electrolyte solution that allows efficient ion movement. With lithium’s high electrochemical potential, they have a high energy density – meaning they can store a lot of power in a small space.

And that’s good news for homeowners without extra storage space or those who simply want to make the most of the space that they already have. 

But apart from space efficiency, here are other reasons why they’re perfect for home use:

  • They’re lightweight and compact, making installation easy, even on walls.
  • They have a high depth of discharge (DoD), usually 90% or more. So, you can use almost all of the stored energy without any issues.
  • With proper use, most last over 10 years without the need for frequent maintenance.

Lithium-ion batteries aren’t a single type, though. 

You’ll come across different subtypes, such as LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate), NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt), and LCO (Lithium Cobalt Oxide), among many others.

If you have to choose among these, go for LiFePO4. It has the longest lifespan and can resist thermal runaway – a dangerous chain reaction where overheating leads to fires. In other words, it has zero fire risks, making it safe and reliable for home use.

NMC and LCO may have higher energy densities, but they degrade faster and are more prone to overheating.

As with anything, lithium-ion batteries have a drawback – cost. You’ll be looking at an upfront investment of at least $9,000 for a unit, which isn’t exactly small change.

Lead Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are a much older technology that was once the standard for solar storage. They still work for a lot of applications, including DIY solar setups, but they’ve been largely replaced by lithium-ion.

Why? First, lead-acid batteries have a shorter lifespan, typically lasting five years or less. They require frequent maintenance, as water levels inside must be checked and refilled. Additionally, they take up significantly more space and are much heavier.

And the list doesn’t stop there. Lead-acid batteries need to be charged more often, and their depth of discharge is lower, meaning you get less usable energy

That said, they do come at a lower upfront cost, around $5,000. But when you factor in the maintenance and drawbacks, lithium-ion is definitely the better investment.

To be fair, lead-acid batteries aren’t entirely obsolete and, as I said, are still widely used today. 

Car batteries, for example, are made of lead acid. They’re great at delivering short bursts of energy, which makes them ideal for starting engines. This very characteristic makes them less suited for solar applications where energy needs to be processed over sustained periods.

One advantage they do have over lithium-ion? They can handle a wider range of temperatures, including extreme cold, where lithium-ion struggles.

Are there Other Types of Solar Batteries?

Yes. Beyond lithium-ion and lead-acid battery types, there are a few other battery types. However, they aren’t particularly suitable for homes.

Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries exist, but they’re used primarily in industrial or aviation applications. One major reason for this is that cadmium is highly toxic, making it dangerous for residential use.

Two interesting developments in solar battery technology to keep an eye on, however, are saltwater batteries and flow batteries.

Both solutions use non-toxic electrolytes, making them safer and more environmentally friendly. Even so, in their current state, saltwater batteries don’t yet match the energy density of lithium-ion, while flow batteries require large tanks that aren’t practical for home installation.

Only time will tell when these solutions will be perfected for mainstream use. But for now, lithium-ion still dominates the residential solar battery space.

DC vs AC-Coupled Solar Batteries

When discussing solar battery types, another aspect to consider is how the battery connects to the solar system. This brings us to the DC- vs. AC-coupled comparison.

Unlike our earlier discussion on battery chemistries, which focused on which type is better, this comparison focuses on which battery setup works best for your situation – are you installing solar batteries along with a new solar system, or are you adding one to an existing system?

On one hand, a DC-coupled solar battery connects directly to the solar panels. 

The energy flows from the panels into the battery, then gets converted into AC power for use in the home. Since the power isn’t converted multiple times, this setup is slightly more efficient, making it the standard choice for new solar installations.

An AC-coupled battery, on the other hand, connects after the solar inverter.

The solar panels send energy to the home first, and any excess is converted into DC power for storage. Later, when the battery discharges, it converts the stored energy back into AC power.

This double conversion causes minor efficiency losses, but AC-coupled batteries are easier to add to existing solar systems.

Backup vs. Consumption-Only Batteries

Another thing worth discussing is backup vs. consumption-only batteries, which, in a bird’s-eye view, refers to battery types based on function.

A backup battery functions exactly as it’s named – it provides backup power during grid outages, much like a generator. This is how solar batteries have traditionally been viewed by homeowners.

A consumption-only battery, on the other hand, isn’t meant for backup (hence, why they’re also called “no-backup battery”). Instead, it stores excess solar power for later use, primarily to help homeowners avoid drawing from the grid.

At a glance, it seems like consumption-only batteries are pointless because don’t backup batteries serve the same purpose?

The thing is, consumption-only batteries were made for homeowners dealing with unfavorable net metering policies, for example, California’s NEM 3.0 net metering policy, which took effect in 2023. 

This policy slashed compensation for excess solar energy sent to the grid by around 75%, meaning homeowners now receive far less credit for their surplus power.

With a consumption-only battery, homeowners can choose the “self-consumption” path, instead of selling excess energy for a much smaller compensation.

And since consumption-only batteries don’t have backup capability – meaning the setup is much simpler – they come at a lower cost, making them a lot more accessible for many homeowners.

Gain Full Control of Your Home’s Energy With Solar Batteries

With Avail Solar, you get a team of solar experts to handle every aspect of your transition to home solar energy – including installing the right solar battery to suit your specific household energy needs.

We only install solar batteries that are proven and sourced from trusted manufacturers. And to ensure you’re making an informed decision, we’ll walk you through the numbers so you can fully understand the return on investment for your purchase.

Request a quote or call us today to speak with one of our solar professionals!

Posted in Solar 101

You probably already know that solar batteries let you store extra energy for later use, whether it’s for nighttime or during power outages.  But when you start looking into energy storage options, you’ll quickly realize a variety of solar batteries out there. And, like most homeowners, you might find yourself wondering: “Which one is the best fit for my home?” In this article, I’ll guide you through the different types of solar batteries so you can make the right choice. I’ll also touch on other important comparisons to help you better understand what’s out there.

Types of Solar Batteries for Homes

When we talk about solar battery types, we’re really talking about battery chemistry – the materials inside the battery that determine its performance, lifespan, and efficiency.

Lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are today’s standard for home solar storage.

These batteries use lithium-based compounds in their electrodes and an electrolyte solution that allows efficient ion movement. With lithium’s high electrochemical potential, they have a high energy density – meaning they can store a lot of power in a small space.

And that’s good news for homeowners without extra storage space or those who simply want to make the most of the space that they already have. 

But apart from space efficiency, here are other reasons why they’re perfect for home use:

  • They’re lightweight and compact, making installation easy, even on walls.
  • They have a high depth of discharge (DoD), usually 90% or more. So, you can use almost all of the stored energy without any issues.
  • With proper use, most last over 10 years without the need for frequent maintenance.

Lithium-ion batteries aren’t a single type, though. 

You’ll come across different subtypes, such as LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate), NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt), and LCO (Lithium Cobalt Oxide), among many others.

If you have to choose among these, go for LiFePO4. It has the longest lifespan and can resist thermal runaway – a dangerous chain reaction where overheating leads to fires. In other words, it has zero fire risks, making it safe and reliable for home use.

NMC and LCO may have higher energy densities, but they degrade faster and are more prone to overheating.

As with anything, lithium-ion batteries have a drawback – cost. You’ll be looking at an upfront investment of at least $9,000 for a unit, which isn’t exactly small change.

Lead Acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are a much older technology that was once the standard for solar storage. They still work for a lot of applications, including DIY solar setups, but they’ve been largely replaced by lithium-ion.

Why? First, lead-acid batteries have a shorter lifespan, typically lasting five years or less. They require frequent maintenance, as water levels inside must be checked and refilled. Additionally, they take up significantly more space and are much heavier.

And the list doesn’t stop there. Lead-acid batteries need to be charged more often, and their depth of discharge is lower, meaning you get less usable energy

That said, they do come at a lower upfront cost, around $5,000. But when you factor in the maintenance and drawbacks, lithium-ion is definitely the better investment.

To be fair, lead-acid batteries aren’t entirely obsolete and, as I said, are still widely used today. 

Car batteries, for example, are made of lead acid. They’re great at delivering short bursts of energy, which makes them ideal for starting engines. This very characteristic makes them less suited for solar applications where energy needs to be processed over sustained periods.

One advantage they do have over lithium-ion? They can handle a wider range of temperatures, including extreme cold, where lithium-ion struggles.

Are there Other Types of Solar Batteries?

Yes. Beyond lithium-ion and lead-acid battery types, there are a few other battery types. However, they aren’t particularly suitable for homes.

Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries exist, but they’re used primarily in industrial or aviation applications. One major reason for this is that cadmium is highly toxic, making it dangerous for residential use.

Two interesting developments in solar battery technology to keep an eye on, however, are saltwater batteries and flow batteries.

Both solutions use non-toxic electrolytes, making them safer and more environmentally friendly. Even so, in their current state, saltwater batteries don’t yet match the energy density of lithium-ion, while flow batteries require large tanks that aren’t practical for home installation.

Only time will tell when these solutions will be perfected for mainstream use. But for now, lithium-ion still dominates the residential solar battery space.

DC vs AC-Coupled Solar Batteries

When discussing solar battery types, another aspect to consider is how the battery connects to the solar system. This brings us to the DC- vs. AC-coupled comparison.

Unlike our earlier discussion on battery chemistries, which focused on which type is better, this comparison focuses on which battery setup works best for your situation – are you installing solar batteries along with a new solar system, or are you adding one to an existing system?

On one hand, a DC-coupled solar battery connects directly to the solar panels. 

The energy flows from the panels into the battery, then gets converted into AC power for use in the home. Since the power isn’t converted multiple times, this setup is slightly more efficient, making it the standard choice for new solar installations.

An AC-coupled battery, on the other hand, connects after the solar inverter.

The solar panels send energy to the home first, and any excess is converted into DC power for storage. Later, when the battery discharges, it converts the stored energy back into AC power.

This double conversion causes minor efficiency losses, but AC-coupled batteries are easier to add to existing solar systems.

Backup vs. Consumption-Only Batteries

Another thing worth discussing is backup vs. consumption-only batteries, which, in a bird’s-eye view, refers to battery types based on function.

A backup battery functions exactly as it’s named – it provides backup power during grid outages, much like a generator. This is how solar batteries have traditionally been viewed by homeowners.

A consumption-only battery, on the other hand, isn’t meant for backup (hence, why they’re also called “no-backup battery”). Instead, it stores excess solar power for later use, primarily to help homeowners avoid drawing from the grid.

At a glance, it seems like consumption-only batteries are pointless because don’t backup batteries serve the same purpose?

The thing is, consumption-only batteries were made for homeowners dealing with unfavorable net metering policies, for example, California’s NEM 3.0 net metering policy, which took effect in 2023. 

This policy slashed compensation for excess solar energy sent to the grid by around 75%, meaning homeowners now receive far less credit for their surplus power.

With a consumption-only battery, homeowners can choose the “self-consumption” path, instead of selling excess energy for a much smaller compensation.

And since consumption-only batteries don’t have backup capability – meaning the setup is much simpler – they come at a lower cost, making them a lot more accessible for many homeowners.

Gain Full Control of Your Home’s Energy With Solar Batteries

With Avail Solar, you get a team of solar experts to handle every aspect of your transition to home solar energy – including installing the right solar battery to suit your specific household energy needs.

We only install solar batteries that are proven and sourced from trusted manufacturers. And to ensure you’re making an informed decision, we’ll walk you through the numbers so you can fully understand the return on investment for your purchase.

Request a quote or call us today to speak with one of our solar professionals!

Posted in Solar 101

Just because solar panels need sunlight to generate power doesn’t mean they’re useless after dark. In this article, I’ll walk you through how solar panels remain part of the energy cycle even at night – and the ways they can still help power your home once the sun goes down.  

Do Solar Panels Work at Night?

Solar panels don’t work at night – that’s the simple answer. Solar panels use a process called the “photoelectric effect,” where sunlight hits the panel and excites electrons to create an electrical current. So, without sunlight, there’s no energy to produce.

If we were to be a bit more technical, the reality is that any source of light can be absorbed by solar panels to generate electricity – streetlights and moonlight, for example. 

However, they’re not remotely as powerful as direct sunlight. They don’t even come close to reaching the minimum threshold to get your inverters to work, let alone power your home.…

How Do Homes With Solar Panels Still Have Power at Night?

While your solar panels “sleep” at night, solar energy continues to work and benefit you via these two methods:

Solar Batteries

With solar batteries, any excess energy your solar panels generate during the day can be captured and stored, ready to run your appliances, lights, and electronics later at night. 

It works much like a water tank, storing up water for emergencies or when the supply line is interrupted.

Don’t worry about producing “excess energy.” As far as I know, solar systems are designed with a conservative approach in mind – at least that’s how we do things here at Avail Solar when we plan for and install home solar systems.

This means your solar panels will generate excess energy on particularly sunny days, and throughout the year, you’ll build up a positive net energy balance that helps offset low production on cloudy days and seasonal changes.

Speaking of seasonal changes, solar batteries also help you make the most of time-of-use rates.

In winter, for instance, when sunlight is weaker and solar production drops, you can charge your battery during off-peak hours (usually late at night) when electricity is cheaper. You can then use that stored energy during peak hours, on top of what little your solar panels generate during the day.

When you factor in a solar battery’s lifespan, on top of the advantages we just discussed, it’s an investment that really pays off over time.

Rolling back a few years ago, many of our customers started asking whether we also installed batteries – and that told me they saw exactly how valuable this addition could be for their homes.

Net Metering

Net metering is a pricing arrangement where you send excess energy back to the grid, and in exchange, you earn “energy credits” from your utility company.

So, at night when your solar panels aren’t producing, you can use those credits to pull power from the grid without paying the full price – thanks to the excess energy your solar panels generate during the day.

In that sense, the grid serves as a sort of storage system that works just like a solar battery, although it operates on a different scale and with different mechanisms in place.

If I had to point out a difference that could be a deal breaker for many, it’s that with net metering, you’d still be subject to any price increases your utility imposes. 

Whereas with a solar battery added to a solar system that’s bought outright or financed (not leased or under a PPA contract), your investment remains at a flat rate for years, which means more predictable savings.

Are There Any Developments in Nighttime Solar Technology?

How awesome would it be if solar panels worked just as well at night as they do during the day, right? We’re not really there yet, but attempts have been made to make nighttime solar panels a reality.

Professor Jeremy Munday, one of the researchers at UC Davis who have explored the use of thermoradiative cells, explained that they function much like how typical PV cells would, but only in reverse…

Instead of absorbing sunlight, these cells would capture infrared radiation at night and convert it into electricity. 

So far, they’ve successfully generated power, but more refinements are needed before they become practical for large-scale use. That means, for now, the best ways to ensure reliable solar power at night are solar batteries and net metering.

Other Ways to Make the Most of Solar for Nighttime Use

Being one who likes to dig into all the possibilities and juice out every bit of value, here are a few ways you can really maximize the two main options – solar battery use and net metering – to make your solar system work harder for you at night.

Regular Solar Panel Cleaning

Dirt and dust can build up on your panels over time, which can impact how much energy your panels generate, ultimately affecting how much is stored for nighttime use. 

We’ve covered how to properly clean your solar panels in a previous article, and trust me, it’s likely easier than you might think.

Optimize Energy Consumption

One of the simplest tips to mention, but often hard to put into practice, is using your energy wisely. Consider how often the TV is left on when no one’s watching, or how much power your air conditioning unit consumes when it’s running in a room that’s completely unoccupied.

If you could track these habits, you’d realize how much excess solar energy you could be storing on your battery – or even selling back to the grid via net metering.

To get a clearer picture, you can review your load profile to identify where and when you’re using the most energy.

Other ways to optimize include investing in programmable appliances (such as smart thermostats) and using Energy Star-rated devices, which are more energy-efficient.

Monitor Your System’s Performance

Many home solar systems come with apps or dashboards that track energy production and storage. By keeping an eye on these metrics, you can quickly spot any issues and have them addressed by a professional asap, ensuring your system runs smoothly and generates the most power possible.

If you choose microinverters for your system, you’ll be able to keep tabs on each panel individually. On the other hand, if you’re sticking with the traditional string inverter setup, you’ll need to invest in power optimizers to be able to track each panel’s performance on its own.

Enjoy Solar Savings Even at Night

As I mentioned, just because your solar panels are in sleep mode at night doesn’t mean the savings stop when the day ends.

At Avail Solar, we create a solar design that takes advantage of net metering arrangements and maximizes your solar battery investment, so you can slash those electric bills and turn them into savings instead.

Request a quote today or reach out to one of our solar experts!

Posted in Solar 101

String inverters have long been the standard in residential solar systems. However, microinverters – a technology that came a bit later – are quickly gaining popularity as more homeowners realize their significant benefits.  The question is, should you jump on the microinverter bandwagon or would you be better off sticking with the traditional inverter setup? In this article, I’ll take you deeper into what a microinverter is, how it works, and its pros and cons to help you make sense of it all and decide whether it’s the right choice for your home.

What Is a Microinverter and How Does It Work?

A microinverter is a small device attached to each solar panel in a photovoltaic (PV) system. It converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that your home can use.

Doesn’t a string inverter function the same way? Of course. However, unlike traditional string inverters, which handle this conversion for all panels collectively, microinverters work on a panel-by-panel basis…

This means that every panel converts its DC output to AC independently, directly addressing the primary limitation of traditional string inverters: if the central inverter fails, the entire solar panel system stops working.

In contrast, with microinverters, the rest of your system keeps operating even if one unit breaks down.

With that said, microinverters certainly come with several advantages, but like anything else, they also have their downsides.

Advantages of Microinverters

Localized Failure

Inverters tend to experience the most stress in a solar system and, therefore, are the components most likely to face performance issues or malfunctions.

In the case of microinverters, if one unit malfunctions or fails, the rest of your solar system continues to operate. You can still power your home with the energy harnessed by other panels, free of energy interruption.

On the other hand, if a central string inverter fails, the entire system goes offline until it’s repaired or replaced.

So, the real benefit of microinverters then is that they buy you time – time to address and repair any faulty units without losing power, and without experiencing the downtime that comes with waiting for service.

Flexibility for System Expansion

The thing with string inverters is that they’re designed to handle a set number of panels, and their capacity is usually determined when your system is first installed…

This means if you start with a smaller solar system today (perhaps due to budget constraints or limited space) you might not be able to expand your system that easily. 

With microinverters, you have a “decentralized” system that allows you to add panels in the future without thinking about overloading. As each panel gets its own microinverter, there’s no need for major upgrades, replacements, or rewiring of any existing equipment.

Flexibility for Panel Placement

Not all parts of your roof get the same amount of sunlight. Some sections receive less sunlight due to their direction, while others have steep angles or obstructions that cast partial shade, thereby reducing panel efficiency.

This becomes an issue with central string inverter setups since the weakest-performing panel drags down the efficiency of the entire string.

Microinverters, on the other hand, eliminate this problem by decoupling the panels. So, if one panel is shaded, only that panel’s output is affected – every other panel continues to produce energy at full capacity.

This means you don’t have to stress about forcing every panel into ideal conditions (although that’s always preferable). Microinverters ensure that each panel operates independently and always performs at its highest possible efficiency.

Compliance With Module-Level Rapid Shutdown Requirements

Module-level rapid shutdown (RSD) is a safety feature designed to de-energize individual solar panels quickly in the event of an emergency, such as a fire

Essentially, it ensures responders, maintenance workers, or anyone accessing the roof can do so safely without the risk of high-voltage electricity from the panels. For this reason, RSD has become mandatory in many U.S. states, including California, Texas, and Michigan.

Microinverters inherently meet module-level RSD requirements because they operate at the panel level – unlike string inverters which require add-on components for compliance.

Panel-Level Monitoring Capability

Microinverters let you monitor the performance of each individual panel, making it easy to identify which panels are malfunctioning or underperforming.

This level of detail simply isn’t possible with string inverters, which only provide system-wide or string-level data.

That said, if you’re someone who’s particular about individual panel performance – or deeply committed to going for the most optimal route possible (just like I am) – go with microinverters instead of string inverters.

Longer Lifespan

Let me preface this by saying that lifespan definitely depends on factors like component quality and environmental conditions. That’s why many homeowners report inverters breaking down as early as two years.

But for the purpose of comparing lifespans, let’s look at warranties instead.

Microinverters come with warranties of 20 to 25 years, while string inverters usually have warranties of 8 to 12 years. This means that with microinverters, you can expect to avoid the hassle of replacements for a long time.

Disadvantages of Microinverters

Higher Upfront Costs

Microinverters are built with a different technology and design compared to string inverters – and that alone drives up the price. 

Besides that, in a more practical sense, there also comes a point where using microinverters might actually exceed the cost of applying the traditional string inverter system.

Let’s crunch some numbers with a hypothetical scenario where you’re installing a 4 kW solar system – 12 solar panels, for example. Assuming the cost of each microinverter is around $300, for 12 panels, you’re looking at a total of $3,600 for microinverters.

Compare that with the cost of single string inverter capable of handling all panels of the 4 kW system, around $2,000, and you would save about $1,600 by choosing the string inverter setup.

Although, I want to make it clear that this is a very simplified example. 

In reality, there are many factors to consider when comparing the two cost-wise, such as the complexity of installation, RSD requirements, personal preference, and so on – all of which are things I and the Avail Solar team takes into account before settling on either option. 

Potential Challenges With Maintenance

As I mentioned, microinverters come with warranties reaching up to 25 years, which says a lot about their lifespan, reliability, and low-maintenance features.

But here’s the thing. A microinverter can still fail, perhaps due to issues like suboptimal connections or manufacturing defects (this can happen even with reputable brands).

And since each panel has its own microinverter, it’s hypothetically possible for failures to occur at different times – one might fail today, another in a few months, and so on…

In this case, the cost isn’t the issue as the warranty will take care of it. The real concern is the inconvenience of having to call for service multiple times.

(Again, this doesn’t happen often, but it can absolutely happen.)

In contrast, with a string inverter setup, only one unit is needed for the entire array, which means you typically only need to call for maintenance once – usually, only if there’s a major issue with the inverter itself.  

Efficiency Losses in Battery Storage

Remember that microinverters work by converting the DC into AC electricity at the panel level. This means electricity generated by your solar system is already in AC form.

But, since most solar batteries are designed to store DC power, you would need an AC-coupled battery inverter to convert the AC back into DC for storage.

This means energy goes through three conversion stages, resulting in more energy loss compared to just two conversion stages in a traditional string inverter setup. 

When to Choose Microinverters

Personally, I’d recommend you choose microinverters only if:

  • Your roof/property gets a lot of shading, whether from trees, nearby buildings, or other obstructions; and
  • You’re planning to install a relatively small system say, 3 kW to 5 kW

Outside of these scenarios, you may want to consider a traditional string inverter setup with optimizers, which works just as well as microinverters in terms of improving shade tolerance and tracking individual panel performance.

Generally speaking, the costs between the two inverter technologies can be pretty similar. However, the nuances – such as your specific shading conditions, system size, and future expansion plans – will greatly influence which choice is better for your home. 

Need a Certified Solar Panel Installer to Help You Decide?

Making the right decision doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you have a solar expert guiding you throughout the solar transition process.

Before installing either microinverters or string inverters, we at Avail Solar first look at your energy consumption needs, long-term goals, and the specific conditions of your home. Once we have all that information, we make a decision that best fits your situation – eliminating all the guesswork from the process.

Request a quote today or give us a call to speak with one of our solar experts!

Posted in Solar 101

Just as we find the need to cook at the right temperature or drive the most fuel-efficient route, getting the most out of our solar panels requires more than just pointing them in any sunny direction. In this article, I’ll guide you through the best orientation and angle for solar panels, how they affect energy production, and what you can do to make the most of your setup even if your roof isn’t perfectly positioned.

What Direction Should Solar Panels Face?

In terms of orientation, the best direction for solar panels is south. This position is considered optimal for regions in the northern hemisphere as it allows solar panels to capture direct, consistent, and intense sunlight for most of the day.

Think back to those globe models in school and recall how the Earth leans to one side – this tilt represents the Earth’s axis. If you shine a flashlight on the globe, you’ll notice the light (the sun) focuses more on one side, specifically the southern half of the sky.

This tilt explains why the sun appears to move across the southern part of the sky during the day, and hence, why south-facing panels tend to “see” the sun better than other directions.  Let’s explore how orientation affects solar production in more detail.

How Orientation Impacts Solar Production

Orientation (also known as azimuth in some cases) refers to the direction your solar panels face, which is primarily north, south, east, or west. It could also be a combination of these primary directions (e.g. southwest, southeast), depending on the orientation of your roof. 

To understand how orientation impacts production, let’s examine the four primary directions.

South Facing

As I mentioned earlier, south-facing panels are the gold standard for solar energy production in the northern hemisphere. This way, solar panels are aligned with the sun’s path, capturing sunlight for the longest period each day.

Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) supports this. From the diagram above, south-facing panels generate more annual energy production compared to west- and east-facing by approximately 15%.

West Facing

West-facing panels aren’t far behind in terms of efficiency. In fact, an interesting study showed that south-facing panels slightly oriented a bit westward during the summer produced 40% more energy than panels facing directly south.

Still, west-facing panels generally don’t capture as much sunlight as south-facing ones do over the course of an entire day. However, they do benefit from prolonged exposure to intense afternoon sunlight.

This makes them an excellent choice for regions with peak energy hours starting as early as 12 noon (New York and Florida, for example). 

If you live in such areas, west-facing panels can help offset your energy usage during these costly peak hours by generating more power in the afternoon – an effective way to reduce your electricity bills.

East Facing

East-facing panels ​​generally produce less energy overall compared to south- or west-facing panels. They capture direct sunlight in the morning, but the duration of intense sunlight is shorter compared to the afternoon.

That said, they’re still a good option for settings with high early daytime energy needs. This might not apply to a typical household, but it surely does make a difference for commercial operations like factories, farms, and healthcare facilities.

Remember that solar panels work even without direct sunlight (I’ve touched on this in a previous article), which means that if you have panels perched on an east-facing roof, they would still generate energy in the afternoon.

North Facing

North-facing panels are considered the least ideal because, as I mentioned, the sun’s path is primarily in the southern sky, meaning these panels receive significantly less direct sunlight.

However, similar to east-facing panels, this doesn’t mean they won’t produce energy –just that their output will be lower. If your roof only supports a north-facing installation, there are workarounds you can consider, and we’ll get to that later on.

 

How Angle Affects Solar Production

The angle or tilt is basically how steeply your panels are angled relative to the ground. This angle affects how directly sunlight hits the panels.

Earlier, we discussed how the Earth is tilted on its axis. Tilting your solar panels is necessary to compensate for the Earth’s tilt, positioning them as close to a 90-degree angle with the sun as possible, so more sunlight can be absorbed directly.

A general rule of thumb is to tilt your panels at an angle equal to your home’s latitude. 

For example, if you live in Utah, with a latitude of about 40°, your panels should be tilted at 40° as well. The further you deviate from the ideal angle, the less sunlight your panels will capture, and the less efficient they’ll be at generating energy.

Now, does this ideal tilt change? Yes it does, and it changes with the seasons.

In winter, when the sun is lower in the sky, a steeper tilt is more effective, while a shallower angle works better in the summer. 

You won’t usually find panels that are completely vertical or entirely flat. Although interestingly, the same study I mentioned earlier found that even horizontal panels – those lying flat – can be surprisingly efficient under certain conditions.  

However, it’s standard practice for certified solar installers to set the angle to a fixed position calculated to be the most optimal for your home’s energy needs throughout the year.

Which Matters More, Orientation or Angle?

Between orientation and angle, orientation has a slightly greater impact on energy production, and thus, matters more.

A well-tilted panel facing the wrong direction won’t perform as efficiently as a south- or west-facing panel with a suboptimal tilt.

Other Ways to Maximize Solar Production

Even if we know the best direction and angle our panels should face to maximize solar production, we’re ultimately limited by how our roofs are designed and oriented.

If you have a flat roof, you’re in luck, as you may have more flexibility to adjust the panels to the optimal position. The same goes for those with extra ground space to install ground-mounted panels.

The good news is that maximizing solar production is way more than just getting the perfect angle and direction

Here are a few ways that I find are the most effective in helping you squeeze out more energy from your system.

Solar Battery

With roofs in different directions, some of your panels will peak in the morning (east-facing), while others peak in the afternoon (west-facing). 

Instead of wasting that excess energy during low-consumption times, a solar battery allows you to store it for evening use, when everyone’s home and demand spikes.

Solar Panel Cleaning

Regardless of which direction your panels are facing, things like dirt, pollen, and bird droppings can accumulate and reduce your panels’ efficiency. 

Consider cleaning your solar panels more often especially if you live in an area with wildlife or during pollen-heavy season.

Minimizing Shade

Even if your solar panels are perfectly positioned to face south, their efficiency can take a hit if obstructions like trees or buildings cast shadows over them for long periods.

And in many cases, you’re better off relocating the panels to a spot with more consistent sunlight, even if it’s not the ideal orientation.

For overhanging branches causing shade, you can simply trim them to let sunlight pass through.

But if relocating or trimming isn’t practical, consider pairing your panels with microinverters or power optimizers. This way, shaded panels won’t drag down the performance of your entire solar system.

There’s More to Solar Design Than Just Direction

By now, you know that getting the most out of your solar system involves more than just direction…

At Avail Solar, we take a detailed approach – considering panel efficiency, system size, and all the other factors we’ve discussed – to create a solar design that fits your home and energy needs.

Beyond that, we offer end-to-end services, guiding you from the planning stage through installation and ongoing support, to make your transition to solar as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Request a quote today and start saving with solar energy!

Posted in Solar 101

Just because solar panels are the first thing you see perched on a roof or in someone’s backyard doesn’t mean they’re the only components of a solar PV system… There’s actually a lot more going on behind the scenes to harness the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity your home can use. In this article, I’ll go into all the parts that come together to make a solar PV system work. By the end, you’ll have clear expectations of what’s involved, so you can better plan for adding solar to your existing home – or a new one if you’re building from scratch.

What are the Components of a Solar System?

The primary components of a solar PV system are as follows:
  • PV Panels
  • Racking and Mounting
  • Inverter
  • Solar Battery
In addition to the parts of a solar system mentioned above, we’ll also tackle other essential solar components, including those that ensure homeowner safety, connect your system to the electric grid, and protect your solar panels for the long haul.

Solar PV Panels

A solar photovoltaic (PV) panel is a component that converts sunlight into electricity. Each panel is made up of smaller units called solar cells, usually made of silicon. 

When sunlight hits these cells, it excites electrons and creates an electric current – a process known as the photovoltaic effect.

Simply put, solar panels serve as the “engine” of your system. They’re arguably the most important part of the setup because, without them, there would be no electricity generated – just like a car wouldn’t run without an engine.

Given how much energy a typical household uses, you’ll rarely see just one panel on a roof. Instead, multiple panels are combined to form what’s called a solar array

In fact, for an average home in the U.S., a system usually consists of 15 to 20 panels. As to how many you can fit on your roof, it depends on many factors like your panels’ power and efficiency and your usable roof space.

When it comes to panel types, monocrystalline panels are generally more efficient than polycrystalline panels, though the latter tend to be more budget-friendly. There are also thin-film panels, which are lightweight and cost-effective, but are generally the least efficient option. Most residential solar panels are about 5 to 6 feet tall, 3 feet wide, and range from 1.5 to 2 inches in thickness. As to weight, a single panel can weigh around 40 pounds. Keep in mind that the exact dimensions and specifications can vary depending on the brand and model.

Solar Panel Racking and Mounting

PV racking and mounting systems are the hardware that secures your solar panels in place, either on your roof or on the ground. They keep your panels stable even in tough weather conditions like wind or snow, and maintain the correct angle for optimal sunlight exposure.  Roof Mounted Systems Roofs often leave large, unutilized spaces that homeowners would rather put to better use – hence why many opt to install solar panels on their roofs. Apart from the ample space, the roof’s elevation and excellent sun exposure make it an even more ideal spot for solar panels. Roof-mounted solar panels can be installed in four ways: Rail-Based Mounting System In this setup, rails are installed parallel to the roof surface, and solar panels are attached to these rails with clamps. The rails are secured to the roof with mounting brackets that are drilled into the roof, as you can see in many asphalt shingle roofs, tile roofs, and flat roofs.  Rail-Less Mounting System As the name implies, rail-less systems do away with bulky rails. Instead, the solar panels are directly attached to the roof using brackets or clamps. It’s something you’ll want to consider if you have a metal roof or shingle roof, or if aesthetics or weight reduction is a concern.

Standing Seam Clamps

Standing seam metal roofs are arguably the best type of metal roof for solar panel installations. Here, clamps attach directly to the seams of the metal roof, without the need for any drilling.

While most mounting systems involve drilling into the roof, the “damage” is often minimal, especially when done by a certified solar installer. And if a roof leak does occur, a reputable solar installer will likely cover the repairs under their solar workmanship warranty, just as we do at Avail Solar.

Ground Mounting Equipment

Ground mounting is the way to go when roof mounting isn’t ideal or practical. For instance:

  • Your roof is not structurally sound enough to support your panels, 
  • You have a roof with many irregularities (chimneys, multi-level sections, etc.), leaving less usable surface.
  • Your roof is shaded by trees, buildings, or other obstructions.

Popular systems for ground-mounted solar panels include the following: Fixed-Tilt Mounting System This system uses aluminum or galvanized steel framing to securely hold solar panels at the top while providing a stable base on the ground. However, panels are locked at a fixed angle, just as roof-mounted systems are tied to the roof’s orientation. The only difference is that the angle of ground-mounted panels can be independently optimized to capture the most sunlight year-round. Bear in mind that ground preparation will be necessary. Vegetation must be cleared, and the land graded for stability before steel posts are driven into the soil or set in concrete footings. Tracking Mounting System This setup is structurally similar to fixed-tilt setups but differs in functionality. Here, the panels move throughout the day, following the sun’s path to maximize energy production. With that said, additional components are required, such as motorized trackers and control systems, which add to the complexity and cost. Pole Mounting In areas with steep terrain or significant elevation differences, pole mounting may be the best solution. In this system, panels are mounted on single or multiple poles, rather than a large racking system spanning the entire array. Because the poles are installed at individual points on the ground, there’s no need to prepare large sections of land.  However, you’ll have to see that the structural design is sufficient so the poles and footings can withstand external forces and remain stable.

Ballasted Mounting System In a ballasted system, your solar panels are held in place by weight – typically dirt, gravel, or concrete – rather than being anchored into the ground. It’s a great alternative where digging is not practical due to poor soil conditions.

Inverter

Your solar panels generate direct current (DC) electricity, while most of our household appliances run on alternate current (AC). The inverter is the key component responsible for flipping this DC into usable AC. That means, without an inverter, the energy from your panels wouldn’t be suited for home use, and thus, useless. For most residential solar setups, a single inverter is usually sufficient to handle the system’s capacity. However, larger or more complex designs may require multiple inverters. The type of inverter you choose also plays a role since different models come with varying power capacities. Among the types of inverters, string inverters are the most common for home solar. You’ll typically find them installed near the main electrical panel.

They work by linking all your solar panels in series (a “string”) and converting the DC electricity from the whole string at once, which makes installation pretty easy and straightforward. One downside, however, is that the performance of the entire string depends on the weakest panel. If one panel is shaded or dirty, the output of the whole string is reduced. Additionally, you won’t be able to monitor the performance of individual panels – only the string as a whole. Even so, it shouldn’t be a deal breaker, and I personally wouldn’t worry about it too much.  As long as your panels get plenty of sunlight, stay free of shade, and are cleaned regularly, this issue is unlikely to cause headaches, and your string inverter should perform efficiently.But if you’re really concerned about those performance issues, you might want to consider adding power optimizers to each of your solar panels, or opting for microinverters instead.

A solar battery stores the energy your solar panels generate for use later. Lithium-ion batteries in particular can last up to 10 to 15 years and are basically maintenance-free.

Now, solar batteries are not mandatory. In fact, many homeowners have successfully cut their electric bills without ever needing one. 

So, when would you actually need a solar battery? Here’s what I usually tell homeowners who ask me that very question:

  • When net metering arrangements in your area aren’t favorable
  • When time-of-use (TOU) pricing rates apply, and peak-hour electricity rates are too expensive (I’ve touched on load profiling and TOU rates in a previous article)
  • If your goal is to go off-grid and fully achieve energy independence

Given their long lifespans and the benefits they offer, solar batteries are a really good investment on top of your solar panels, and I’d highly recommend you add one to your home solar setup if your budget allows.

Other Solar Components

Disconnect Switch

A disconnect switch is a device that shuts off the flow of electricity in your solar PV system. It’s particularly useful in emergency situations, as well as during maintenance or repairs, to prevent electrocution and damage to your equipment.

For safety purposes, they are usually installed in easily accessible locations, such as near the inverter or on the exterior of your home.

Utility Meter

The utility meter measures the electricity flowing between your home and the grid. In a solar PV system, particularly under a net metering arrangement, this meter is often a bi-directional meter or net meter.

This component not only lets you earn credits for the excess electricity your panels send back to the grid but also keeps a record of how much energy you’re exporting.

Hail-Protection Accessories

In hail-prone areas in places like Texas and Oklahoma, accessories such as roll-up shutters and hail netting are commonly used to protect solar panels from hail damage. Solar panels are already rated to resist hail, and using these accessories should give you more peace of mind.

Customized Solar System Design for Your Home

Knowing what your solar investment includes is one thing, but ensuring your system can meet your energy needs, cut your electricity costs, and deliver big savings is another.

With Avail Solar, you’ll have a team of personal solar advisors guiding you from the planning phase through to installation and maintenance. We use only the best, tested products, creating a design tailored to your energy goals and budget.

Request a quote today or call us to speak with one of our certified solar installers!

Posted in Solar 101

If you’re still in the “considering stage” of making the switch to solar, a thought you might have pondered on more than once is, “If it’s too cloudy outside, will my solar panels work?” The good news is, solar panels do work on cloudy days. In this article, we’ll explain how they perform on overcast days, their efficiency in such conditions, and how you can maximize their energy production.

How Do Solar Panels Work?

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells, which are made from semiconductor materials like silicon. 

When sunlight hits these cells, it excites the electrons, creating an electric current (direct current or DC) that is then turned into usable power (alternating current or AC) for your home. 

Essentially, as long as sunlight is present, your panels will continue to produce energy. And the more sunlight they get, the more energy they can generate. 

This explains why the time of day solar panels work best is typically between 10 am and 4 pm when the sun is highest in the sky. And in terms of seasons, they produce the most energy during late spring and summer when the days are much longer.

Of course, this isn’t always the case, as the sun could be shining at noon today and be totally dark and cloudy the next day – which then raises the question…

Do Solar Panels Work on a Cloudy Day?

Contrary to popular belief, solar panels still work on a cloudy day, and here’s why.

The misconception likely comes from the idea that if the sky isn’t beaming with bright light strong enough to cast a shadow, such as in gloomy or cloudy weather, there’s no sunlight to fuel solar energy production. This isn’t entirely true.

The truth is, solar panels don’t need direct sunlight to produce energy. They can capture indirect or even reflected sunlight that’s diffused in the atmosphere, allowing them to continue producing energy even in cloudy weather.

However, by simple intuition, sunlight is not as strong on overcast days, and it’s expected that solar panels don’t generate energy at their full potential as they would on sunny days.

How Efficient are Solar Panels on a Cloudy Day?

On cloudy days, solar panels can still generate electricity, but at a much lower efficiency compared to sunny days. 

The energy produced on these days can be anywhere from 10% to 25% less than their full-rated capacity, and it could be even lower if the cloud cover is particularly thick as this makes it harder for the panels to capture sunlight.

To put this into perspective, let’s say you have a 10 kW solar system. On a bright, sunny day, your system might generate the full 10 kW of power. But on overcast days, you could see only about 7.5 kWh to 9 kWh of energy produced.

Do Solar Panels Work in the Rain?

Just like on cloudy days, rain doesn’t stop your solar panels from working. But you can expect energy production to drop significantly, as rain often comes with thick, dense clouds that block much of the sunlight from reaching your panels. 

On a more positive note, rain can help wash away dirt and debris that may have accumulated on your panels, which ultimately helps with your panels’ efficiency for the sunnier days ahead. This also reduces the effort on your end as nature has done the solar panel cleaning for you.

Do Solar Panels Work at Night?

As mentioned many times earlier, solar panels can work with less sunlight. But when it’s nighttime and there’s zero sunlight? No, they won’t work (they’re called solar panels, after all).

But this doesn’t mean you can’t power your home with solar at night. There are a couple of ways to make this happen:

One is if you enter into a net metering arrangement with your utility provider. Here, any extra energy your panels generate during the day goes back to the grid. In exchange, you get credits that let you draw electricity from the grid at night.

Secondly, you can add solar batteries to your solar system. This allows you to store extra energy your panels generate during the day so you can use it at night or during extended periods of cloudy weather.

You might have to shell out a large sum for this additional investment, but considering modern solar batteries have long lifespans and can serve you for years, it’s definitely a worthwhile one.

How Can I Maximize Solar Production on Cloudy Days?

To account for energy loss on cloudy days, here are some tips to get the most solar production out of your system:

Choose High-Efficiency Panels

On average, solar panels are rated to be at least 19% efficient, with higher-end models reaching up to 23%. We recommend opting for the latter if your budget allows.

Consider Installing a Larger System

You may plan to upsize your solar system in advance by 10 to 25 per cent – accounting for the energy reduction that cloudy conditions can cause (as we discussed earlier). 

A local solar panel installer can assist with this, as they are familiar with your area’s conditions and can optimize the system design to better handle cloudy days.

Adjust the Tilt of Your Panels

Your latitude typically determines the best angle for your panels to capture more sunlight. That said, it may be worth the effort to adjust your panels’ tilt depending on the season. For example, a steeper tilt during winter would allow them to catch more light since the sun is lower in the sky.

Regular Maintenance

By now, you understand that clouds can reduce your solar panel production. But imagine if dirt, grime, bird droppings, or other debris build up on your panels. This would lower energy output even further and even damage your solar panels’ internal components.

To avoid this, make it a habit to inspect your panels regularly. If you notice any buildup, it’s best to clean them right away. This isn’t difficult as simply rinsing them with tap water will do.

Should You Go Solar if You’re in a Cloudy Climate?

Yes, you absolutely should! Cloudy climates may not seem ideal for solar panels, but take a look at the state of New York. 

Despite having one of the lowest average annual solar radiation per square meter per day (a metric that already factors in overcast days and seasonal changes), it still ranks among the top 10 states for cumulative solar photovoltaic capacity as of writing.

This shows that solar panels can still be viable and beneficial even in less-than-ideal, cloudy conditions.

At the end of the day, how much you can benefit depends on how well your solar system is designed for your specific location. And a reliable solar panel installer can definitely help you with that.

Get a Custom Solar Solution for Your Home

At Avail Solar, we tailor your solar system design for maximum efficiency and cost savings, so you can get the most out of your system even on cloudy days.

For us, no two installations are the same – our approach is rooted in understanding your energy needs while ensuring the system complements the aesthetics of your home.

Request a quote or call us today to discuss your requirements.

Posted in Solar 101

When we want to make sense of our electric consumption, most of us simply check our electric bill to see two things: how many kilowatts we’ve used and how much it’s costing us.  While this quick glance tells you the dollars spent, it doesn’t offer the full picture of your usage habits, which is crucial if you’re really serious about lowering those bills for good. The solution to this problem – something that I find is often overlooked because many aren’t aware of it or don’t understand how it works – is load profiling. This involves analyzing graphical insights into your electric consumption throughout the day or over a certain period. In this article, I’ll explain what a load profile is and how it looks, how you can use it to cut your electric bills, and how it plays a role in saving money if you decide to invest in solar energy.

What is a Load Profile?

A load profile is essentially a record or chart that shows how much electricity you use at different times of the day, over a specific period.

The vertical axis represents your energy consumption, typically in kilowatts (kWh), while the horizontal axis shows the time of day.

With your consumption plotted against time, you get a clear visual of your usage patterns – when you’re using the most power, when you’re using the least, and how this changes throughout the day or even across seasons.

Let me illustrate how load profiling works through an example. 

When you turn on your AC, TV, or washing machine simultaneously, the load increases because all these appliances are pulling power from the grid or your energy source. Once everything’s turned off at night, your load becomes very low.

These load variations are captured by a smart meter or an energy monitoring device. Then, based on the obtained data points, a load profile is generated, representing your consumption visually as a graph.

In a typical residential setting, this graph usually shows:

  • A low point of energy use in the early morning (around 6 am), when most people are still sleeping
  • A rise in energy use in the morning (around 7 am) as people wake up, cook breakfast, and start their day.
  • A dip in energy consumption during the middle of the day, when people are out at work or school.
  • A big spike in late afternoon to early evening (around 5 pm to 7 pm) when people return home, turn on the lights, cook dinner, and switch on the TV.
  • Another drop late at night as everyone winds down and goes to bed.

If humans were robots programmed to follow the same routine every day at the same time, our load profiles would stay the same for life. But in reality, this isn’t the case. Your load profile will vary based on different factors (and I’ll discuss these in a bit). For example, your family might consume more electricity on weekends compared to weekdays, or you might use more cooling in summer and heating in winter. The holiday season can also change your load profile due to extra lighting and hosting.

Do You Need a Load Profile?

If you want to be meticulous about your energy consumption, track your usage habits closely, and keep more of your money instead of handing it over to your utility company, then yes, you will certainly need a load profile.

As I mentioned, a load profile gives you a detailed, time-based view of your energy consumption. It doesn’t just show you how much energy you’ve used in total, but also tells you when you used it, which helps you:

  • Pinpoint exactly where you can reduce energy use by cutting down on unnecessary appliance consumption – no more guessing or relying on assumptions.
  • Optimize when to use electricity to take advantage of lower rates during off-peak periods (especially if your utility provider uses Time-of-Use pricing) and avoid paying for demand charges during peak times.
  • Plan for renewable energy sources, like solar power. With a clear load profile, you’ll have a solid idea of how big your solar system should be to offset your electric consumption.

To be clear, there’s nothing wrong with just looking at your bill, seeing how much kWh you’ve consumed, and calling it a day – that’s how things have worked for years. 

But again, this traditional approach lacks what a load profile can provide – insights into the timing and patterns of your energy usage. This can serve as a baseline for your current habits and a solid point of comparison should significant fluctuations in your energy bills occur in the future.

What Factors Affect Your Load Profile?

The slightest change in your electricity consumption can impact your load profile, but some factors tend to cause a more drastic effect. These include:

Location

The climate and weather in your area impact your energy use for heating, cooling, and lighting. For example, in colder climates, heating will increase energy use in the winter, while in warmer climates, cooling will be the main factor in the summer.

HVAC Usage

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are major energy consumers. The type of HVAC system you have and how efficiently it runs will influence your load profile, especially during periods when it’s in use.

Other High-Load Consuming Appliances (Pools, EV, etc.)

Appliances like electric vehicle chargers or pool pumps can create spikes in your energy use, and this shows up often as short-term, high-energy peaks on your load profile.

Lighting

Lighting use can cause small, consistent spikes in your energy consumption, especially during the evening. Homes with many rooms that need lighting or those with shorter daylight hours in winter will have higher lighting-related consumption.

Electric Rate Pricing Plan

Your utility provider may offer different electric rate pricing plans that influence when and how much you pay for electricity.

A common pricing arrangement is the Time-of-Use (TOU) pricing, where electricity costs more during peak hours (e.g. late afternoon) and less during off-peak hours (e.g. nighttime). 

In this setup, you’ll want to shift high-consumption activities to off-peak hours to cut your electric bill. This shift in behavior will ultimately affect your load profile.

Net Metering Arrangements

Homeowners with solar systems can send excess energy back to the grid and, in return, earn energy credits on their electric bill – a popular system called net metering. This helps flatten your load profile, as you’ll draw less energy from the grid.

Unpredictable Future Consumption Behavior

There’s no way to predict for certain if, say, you’ll bring in new electronics, host a relative for a few days, or transition to a work-from-home setup. The bottom line is that these behavioral shifts can affect your consumption patterns, which would then introduce new peaks or trends in your load profile.

How Do I Determine My Load Profile?

Millions of modern smart meters have been installed across the US, automatically recording electricity usage and sending the data to utility companies.

In many cases, your utility company generates the load profile report for you. Alternatively, many utility companies offer online portals or apps where you can access your load profile directly.

Can I Apply Load Profiling When Investing in Solar?

Absolutely. In fact, analyzing your load profile is the way to go to get a better sense of how much potential savings a solar system can offer you.

When you have a good understanding of your daily consumption patterns, you can determine the ideal solar capacity to cover your energy needs. This, then, helps you figure out the size and the number of solar panels required to match your usage habits.

What’s more, is that it also gives you an opportunity to think ahead about generating excess solar energy for savings.

For example, if your load profile shows lower consumption in the middle of the day – perhaps because you’re away from home – you might consider either storing this energy in solar batteries for later use or taking advantage of net metering arrangements, whichever option gives you a more favorable savings outcome.

Cut Your Bills and Save Big With Solar

At Avail Solar, our goal is to make the transition to solar as simple as possible for homeowners. We help you move away from expensive grid power, turning those electric bills into solar savings instead.

Our team of certified solar energy experts will design a system that matches your exact energy needs and patterns. We also provide personal advice on solar storage options and net metering arrangements, so you can enjoy even bigger savings.

Request a quote or call us today to speak with one of our energy experts!

Posted in Solar 101

When you look at your roof from afar, you can easily picture rows of solar panels perched neatly on top, soaking up the sun. But when you think about how many can actually fit – especially with things like valleys across the slope or a dormer sticking up – it’s not always so clear. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to figure out how many solar panels can fit on your roof, and how much energy it can potentially generate, so you can truly understand how solar can work for you.

How Many Solar Panels Can Fit On My Roof?

How many solar panels you can fit on your roof depends primarily on your roof’s usable space and the dimensions of the solar panels you plan to install.

At a glance, it looks like a matter of simple division – divide the roof size by the panel’s dimensions. A 1,600 square-foot roof (the average roof size according to data from the Angi website) could fit about 91 average-sized solar panels measuring 17.5 square feet each…

But this approach isn’t entirely practical. Bear in mind that roof size doesn’t always equal ‘usable space’. Rather, usable space is your roof area minus certain factors that can limit your installation, such as:

  • Obstructions like chimneys, vents, skylights, and other features that take up space
  • Roof irregularities including valleys, ridges, and multi-level designs that complicate panel placement
  • Shading from trees, nearby buildings, or other objects that may reduce the amount of sunlight reaching your panels
  • Clearance needed from the roof’s edges and apex, typically 8 to 16 inches, to prevent wind uplift and allow for maintenance

With that said, here’s a more accurate way to calculate how many solar panels you can fit on your roof:

Step 1: Measure Your Roof’s Usable Space

Start by measuring the total area of your roof. Then adjust for obstructions, irregularities, shading, and clearance requirements to calculate the usable space.

Step 2: Know the Size of the Solar Panels You’ll Buy

Solar panel sizes vary by brand and model. You can check the manufacturer’s website for the specific measurements of the panels you intend to purchase.

If you’re simply aiming for a quick back-of-the-envelope calculation, know that residential panels typically measure around 5.4 ft by 3.25 ft (17.5 square feet).

Step 3: Calculate the Number of Panels

Once you know your roof’s usable area, divide it by the size of one panel. 

If your roof has 350 square feet of usable space, for example, you can fit approximately 20 panels (350 ÷ 17.5 = 20). Bear in mind that this is just an estimate, and factors like your panel’s layout and spacing can affect the final number.

How Much Solar Power Can My Roof Generate?

When you’ve sorted out how many panels your roof can accommodate, your next question will likely be, “How much power can they produce?”. Having been in the solar industry for several years, here are the key factors homeowners should consider when calculating their solar energy generation potential.

Solar Panel Power and Efficiency

Beyond the quantity of your solar panels, each panel’s power output or wattage greatly influences how much energy you can yield. 

Most residential panels generate between 250 and 400 watts. If you have 20 panels with an average output of 250 watts each, your system’s total capacity would be 5,000 watts (250 x 20) or 6 kilowatts (kW)…

If you have 400-watt panels instead, you’ll generate more power in the same amount of space – 8 kW to be exact.

On top of wattage, efficiency also matters. This is basically your panels’ ability to convert sunlight into power. Most panels stand at 19% efficiency, although much newer models could reach up to 24% efficiency.

Peak Sunlight Hours

The amount of energy your system produces also depends on how much sunlight your area receives. If your location gets an average of 5 peak sunlight hours per day, a 6 kW system can generate about 30 kWh (6 kW x 5 hours) daily. 

Bear in mind that sunlight hours vary by season. In Utah, for example, June (summer) sees nearly 8 peak sunlight hours per day, but this drops to just 2.5 hours in December (winter), based on NREL data.

Accounting for these seasonal changes would give you a more accurate estimate of your system’s annual production.

Roof Orientation and Tilt

Orientation refers to the direction your roof faces – north, south, east, or west. Solar panels mounted on south-facing roofs receive the most consistent and direct sunlight throughout the day and across seasons.

East- and west-facing roofs still capture sunlight but generally produce less energy since they only capture light during specific parts of the day –​​ morning and afternoon, respectively.

Tilt, on the other hand, is the angle at which your roof is inclined – which is also the angle your solar panels adopt. This tilt should ideally match your geographic latitude to allow panels to absorb sunlight perpendicularly and maximize their efficiency.

Will the Energy My Roof Generates Be Enough to Cover My Energy Needs?

To know whether your roof’s solar output can meet your household’s energy needs, you’ll need to compare your system’s production to your electricity usage.

Earlier, we’ve discussed how you can calculate the potential energy generation of the solar system you plan to install.

Next, you should take a look at your recent monthly electric bill to find your average energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Check this number against your system’s potential energy output.

Using the example of a 6 kW system that generates 30 kWh daily, you can estimate its monthly output by multiplying by 30 days: 30 kWh x 30 = 900 kWh. 

If your household consumes around 900 kWh per month (close to the average energy use of a U.S. household), this system would likely meet your energy needs.

That said, I want to stress that your system’s not always going to produce exactly 30 kWh every day. Seasonal changes and daily weather patterns can affect peak sun hours, so energy production will vary throughout the year.

Can I Have ‘Too Many’ Solar Panels on My Roof?

If your roof has enough space to accommodate and properly fit the panels, having “too many” solar panels won’t typically be an issue at all. Still, here are a few things I’d suggest you bear in mind if you’re planning to add more roof-mounted panels:

Additional Cost

This is a no-brainer, but to really stress it: The more panels you install, the higher your upfront costs will be.

Your Roof’s Structural Capability

Newer roofs can, with no doubt, handle the lightweight nature of solar panels. But if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or its warranty period, I’d recommend considering a replacement first.

Even so, you shouldn’t worry too much about whether your existing roof can handle your solar panels or not. During the solar permitting process, professionals will investigate your roof’s suitability and let you know if major repairs or reroofing is needed.

System Compatibility

Solar systems are designed to match the capacity of their inverters. Connect too many panels to your inverter, and it may overload or even become damaged. By working with a certified solar installer, you can ensure your system is properly designed and sized to function optimally right from the start.

HOA Regulations

If you live in a community governed by an HOA, there may be restrictions on the number of panels you can install or where they can be placed. Make sure to check with them first before proceeding or better yet, seek the assistance of a solar installer who can work through such regulations for you.

Turn Your Roof Into a Solar Powerhouse

Anyone can install solar panels, but not everyone can do it in a way that maximizes energy production and lowers your utility bills year-round.

With Avail Solar, you’ll have a partner throughout the entire process. From design and permitting to installation and ongoing maintenance, we ensure your system works efficiently to save you money – without the hassle of contacting multiple people or worrying about the details. Get in touch with us to request a quote or discuss your home’s energy needs today!

Posted in Solar 101

You’ve probably heard all sorts of things about solar panels and roof warranties. Some say they’ll void your warranty entirely, while others insist there’s nothing to worry about. It’s enough to make anyone scratch their head and wonder, what is really true?  I decided to take it upon myself to dig deeper and clear up the confusion. Read further as I explain the truth behind the misconception of solar panels and roof warranties.

Do Solar Panels Void Roof Warranty?

After having reviewed the warranty pages of several major names in the residential roofing industry – no, installing solar panels will not void your roof warranty, provided the installation is done correctly

Let’s explore further what this means by looking into the common misconceptions surrounding the subject.

Misconception #1: Installing Solar Panels Can Damage Your Roof and Void the Warranty 

As long as the solar installer follows the roofer’s guidelines for installing solar panels, your roof shouldn’t be damaged, and your roof warranty will remain intact.

These guidelines typically involve using specific mounting hardware, like racks, brackets, and flashings, for the panels. 

And for this reason, installation should always be done by a certified solar installer who understands and strictly complies with these requirements. 

However, even if damage occurs, whether accidental or necessary (such as drilling into the roof to secure the racking), you don’t need to worry about your warranty getting invalidated…

While the roofing warranty won’t likely cover this damage, your solar workmanship warranty most likely will. 

As for the rest of the roof that remains unaffected, it will remain covered by your original roof warranty.

Lastly, to clear up any concerns about solar panels damaging your roof – quite the opposite is true. Solar panels act as the first line of defense against heavy rain, snow, and hail, which actually helps extend the life of your roof.

Misconception #2: Removing Solar Panels Can Damage Your Roof and Void the Warranty

Solar panels are mounted on the roof via a rail system, which is designed not only to securely hold your panels in place but also to allow them to be easily detached from your roof when needed.

Pair that with a certified solar company to get the job done, and your solar panel system should be removed without any unnecessary roof damage.

In the event that roof damage occurs during removal (for example, if a shingle gets torn), your solar installer’s workmanship warranty – not your roof warranty – will cover that specific damage. 

Although, one related point worth mentioning is that, in most cases, the cost of removing and reinstalling the panels will fall on you as the homeowner. You’ll want to check with your home insurance to see if they can cover this cost.

Misconception #3: Solar Panels Are Too Heavy and Will Cause Roof Structural Damage, Voiding the Warranty

Solar panels typically weigh around 40 pounds, ​​about the same as a small luggage bag you’d carry through the airport. This weight is minimal for your roof and, in most cases, won’t cause any damage that would void your warranty.

A general rule of thumb I stand by is, the younger your roof, the better. A newly built roof is at its peak strength and condition, and will likely outlast the typical 25-year lifespan of your solar panels. 

If you’re concerned about your existing roof’s ability to support your panels, rest assured that during the solar permitting phase, it’s our responsibility as solar installers to assess your roof’s condition and provide you with actionable recommendations before doing installation work.

What Situations Will Void Roof Warranty?

Roof warranties are typically only voided if the solar panels are installed incorrectly, and this usually stems from poor workmanship and low work standards by the solar installer. Some ways this can happen include:

  • Installing solar panels on a roof that wasn’t designed with the load-bearing capacity needed for solar panels.
  • Failing to properly seal and weatherproof the roof after installation, leading to leaks or water damage.
  • A solar panel installer causing significant damage to the roof, either through reckless negligence or lack of proper training (which is common in DIY applications).

That said, it’s not just the solar installation side of things that can mess with your roof warranty. The risk of it being voided also come when other roofing work is involved, particularly when you hire a different roofing contractor for repairs or extra work.

In this case, your warranty with the original roofer is void. And that makes sense – if the original roof has been altered, the roofer wouldn’t want to take responsibility, especially if the second contractor’s works leads to issues.. 

It’s always best to get in touch with your roofing contractor, or visit their website to review the specific terms of their roof warranty, particularly in relation to solar panel installation.   

Who’s Actually Responsible for Repairing My Roof When I Have Solar Panels Installed?

If your roof is damaged or malfunctions due to the installation of your solar panels, the responsibility to repair or replace it falls on the solar installer under their workmanship warranty.

On the other hand, defects on your roof’s valley, around a chimney or skylight, or in other areas far from your panels should be taken care of by your roofing company.

Say, you experience leaking a year from having your panels installed. How can you figure out whether that’s a solar installation issue or a roofing issue?

Here’s a simple litmus test I often share with homeowners:

  1. Go inside your house and find where the leak is happening.
  2. Trace the leak to its source by looking at the backside of the roof above it.

If the source lines up directly under where the solar panels are attached, the problem likely comes from the solar installation. In this case, we can say your roof warranty is partially void as it won’t cover the roof repair, but rather your solar company’s ​​warranty.

If the leak emanates elsewhere, then it’s probably unrelated to the solar panels and would therefore fall under the roofing company’s warranty.

What Types of Roofing Materials are Most Affected by Solar Panel Installations?

When we say a roof is “affected” by solar panel installations, we’re referring to anything that might involve drilling holes, removing nails, or prying materials.

At Avail Solar, we’ve worked on various types of roofs, but tile roofs – like clay or slate – are the ones we find to be the most affected. These tiles are brittle, and installing solar panels often requires cutting or removing them to make room for the brackets.

On the other hand, metal roofs, particularly standing seam metal roofs, tend to be the best for solar installations. No holes are needed to be drilled as brackets can clamp directly onto the seams.

That said, we always take proactive steps to fix issues before they become problems, such as properly sealing affected areas and conducting a test run to check for leaks before finishing the job.

Install Solar Panels Without Worrying About Your Roof

Our professional solar installers at Avail Solar have successfully installed thousands of systems in Utah and across other states in the U.S. We’re proud and confident in our work, which is why we offer solar warranties of up to 25 years.

Request a quote today or contact us to share your solar needs with one of our experts.

Posted in Solar 101