Solar 101 Archives - Page 2 of 3

Do Solar Panels Work on a Cloudy Day?

Posted on 14. January 2025 by Phill Stevens

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.

Load Profiling: What It Is and Why It’s Important for Homeowners

Posted on 11. January 2025 by Phill Stevens

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!

How Many Solar Panels Can Fit on My Roof?

Posted on 30. December 2024 by Phill Stevens

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!

Do Solar Panels Void Roof Warranty?

Posted on 26. December 2024 by Phill Stevens

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:

Go inside your house and find where the leak is happening.
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.

Solar Panels Hail Damage: What to Expect and Do About It

Posted on 18. December 2024 by Phill Stevens

We’ve all heard stories of solar farms and home solar panels being smashed by hailstorms. It’s particularly tough for those folks in areas where they have to deal with hail the size of golf balls or even grapefruits – and facing this more than once a year. But does this mean solar panels are doomed to fail under hail? Does it make them a bad investment as they’ll just get damaged and become unusable? In this article, we’ll clear up the confusion about solar panels and hail, and show you why solar remains a smart investment. We’ll also highlight the types of damage hail can cause and what they mean, and provide practical tips to protect your panels from harm.

Can Solar Panels Withstand Hail?

Despite news of hail damage, solar panels can indeed withstand hail. In fact, a shingle roof may fail way before your solar panels do.

When we look at their construction, the top layer of most panels is tempered glass, a material known for its high impact resistance. The thickness of this glass varies, and naturally, the thicker the glass, the more protection it provides.

But more importantly, solar panels undergo the rigorous hail impact test, a process that simulates real-world conditions during a hailstorm.

Here’s what it typically looks like: Ice balls of about 1 inch in diameter and above (the hail size considered damaging) are launched at the solar panel at speeds between 25 to 72 miles per hour, mimicking the fall speed of severe hail.

Panels are hit in multiple spots to simulate realistic scenarios, and they must remain intact without cracks or broken glass to pass and earn certification.

This procedure is only one of the many tests outlined in the UL 61730 and IEC 61730 standards to ensure the durability and safety of solar panels.

What Signs of Solar Panel Hail Damage Should I Look Out for?

Like our cars and household appliances, which undergo testing for durability but aren’t immune to wear and tear, solar panels can also sustain damage, especially in regions prone to frequent hailstorms.

According to the hail climatology map below, regions in the central U.S., such as Texas, Kansas, and Oklahoma, and parts of the east, experience hail larger than 1 inch – larger than what most panels are rated to withstand – at least 3 times a year.

If your panels have been impacted by hail, the most obvious signs of damage include dents and spiderweb cracks, although you might get away with only a few small scratches or cracks if the hail wasn’t as severe. Regardless, these greatly reduce your panel’s ability to absorb sunlight and can allow moisture and debris to penetrate. Ironically, the worst type of damage is the “invisible” microcracks. These tiny fractures form when hail hits with enough force to damage the PV cells beneath the glass, but without breaking the glass itself. The problem? Since you can’t see them, you might assume your solar panels are working fine, when in reality, hotspots could already be developing, raising the temperature of your panel’s internal components and increasing the risk of a solar panel fire.

How Can I Protect My Solar Panels from Hail Damage?

Here are a few practical steps you can take to protect your solar panels from hail damage.

Pay Attention to the Angle of Installation
If you’re in a hail-prone area, work with your installer to adjust the tilt angle where possible. Panels mounted at a slight angle are better at deflecting hailstones, as opposed to flat installations that take the full brunt of the impact.

For flat or low-pitch roofs, consider using racking systems that allow you to tilt your panels as this will help reduce the surface area exposed to hail. Just make sure the tilt doesn’t compromise energy generation or the system’s stability.

Choose High-Quality Solar Panels

When selecting solar panels, opt for those rated for hail resistance under UL 61730 or IEC 61730 standards. At Avail Solar, we exclusively install time-tested brands like the REC Alpha Pure, Hyundai Dual Black Max, and QCells QTRON BLK.

To confirm a panel meets these ratings, look for the certification label or mark on the back of the solar panel or the product data sheet provided by the manufacturer.

Use Hail Netting

Hail netting is a lightweight, flexible mesh designed to stretch over your panels like a protective shield and absorb the impact from hailstones. It is customizable, relatively affordable, and effective when secured properly.

Because of its material, hail nets may block some sunlight and reduce your solar panel’s production. However, it’s a price worth paying compared to dealing with a damaged and totally unusable solar panel.

Use Roll-Up Shutters

Like hail netting, roll-up shutters are a practical anti-hail solution that’s really worth the added cost if you’re in an area prone to massive hails.

These shutters look like those typical garage doors, although much smaller and oriented parallel to your solar panels.

You can conveniently control them from inside your home, closing them before a hailstorm and then opening them again once it’s safe so your panels can continue generating power.

However, this option is quite bulky and can take up space around your panels. Additionally, you will have to install them for each individual panel, which can be costly and impractical for much larger solar systems.

Continue Monitoring Solar Panel Performance
If you’ve visually inspected your panels and found no obvious damage, it’s still important to monitor your system’s performance.

A drop in performance could indicate hidden damage, like microcracks, which can cause your panels to overheat and potentially catch fire.

If you had your system installed by a professional solar company, you should be able to take advantage of their after-sales support, which often includes system monitoring, troubleshooting, and expert advice on the best course of action to take.

Should I Still Install Solar Panels Despite Hailstorms in My Area?

Yes, you should still install solar panels, and here’s why…

Firstly, you can opt for those anti-hail damage solutions we discussed earlier, such as the hail netting and roll-up shutters, to protect your solar panels. It’s a small price to pay for safeguarding an investment that saves you hundreds of dollars in utility bills.

Secondly, you may be able to count on your home insurance for your damaged solar panels. In fact, many policies cover hail damage – but you’ll need to check with your insurer to confirm the coverage and determine whether you need to adjust your policy or add a rider.

Lastly, the trend of solar panel adoption continues to grow, even in regions that experience frequent hailstorms. Take Texas, for example, which ranks second in total solar system installations, despite the challenges of regular hail.

That said, it’s clear that hail is not holding people back from reaping the financial and environmental benefits of solar energy.

Protect Your Solar Investment with Great After-Sales Support

At Avail Solar, our support extends beyond the installation of your solar system. We provide our valued customers with timely maintenance, cleaning services, and troubleshooting services – especially after hailstorms – to keep your system running at optimal levels.

Get in touch today to request a quote or discuss how we can help you achieve your solar energy goals!

Solar Panel Fires: How Common Are They & Should You Worry?

Posted on 6. December 2024 by Phill Stevens

With solar panels becoming a staple of home energy systems (and even a trendy architectural feature), it’s hard not to imagine the worst – coming home one day to find your roof engulfed in flames. Trust us, you’re not the only one wondering if the benefits really outweigh the risks. It’s a major concern among homeowners, and rightfully so. But, are solar panel fires actually something to lose sleep over or are the risks being overblown? In this article, we’ll tackle these questions in detail and share practical steps you can take to keep your home safe.

Can Solar Panels Cause Fires?

The short answer? No, solar panels themselves cannot cause fires. And here’s why…

The main components of solar panels – glass and silicon – are not flammable materials, meaning they simply don’t catch fire under normal conditions.

Now, aluminum, which makes up the panel’s framing, can burn – but only under extreme conditions (it doesn’t burn as easily as wood does). In fact, the aluminum actually forms a protective oxide layer on the panel’s surface, which helps prevent fires, even in extreme heat.

And here’s a thought: If solar panels could easily combust, no one would be foolish enough to risk installing them in places like deserts, right? The reality is, solar panels are thriving in some of the hottest desert regions in the world, doing exactly what they’re supposed to.

So, if solar panels themselves aren’t the problem, what actually causes a solar panel fire?

What are the Main Causes of Solar Panel Fires?

Solar panels are not flammable, but that doesn’t mean they are entirely fire-resistant or fire-proof either. After all, they’re still part of an electrical system, and electrical faults can create fire risks, just like with any other electrical equipment.

That said, mosts solar panel fires are the result of defects in their electronic components. And what’s likely to happen when there’s faulty wiring or configuration? Electrical arcing.

Electrical arcing happens when the electricity “jumps” across a tiny gap or space as a result of electrical defects or loose connections.

This ionizes the air between the disconnected points, creating a high-temperature plasma.

When this plasma comes into contact with something flammable – like leaves or twigs stuck under the panels or lying nearby – well, you can guess what happens next: A fire.

Now, there are two main culprits we can point our fingers at here:

Factory defects or low-quality solar panels and components
Improper, non-compliant solar panel installation

If you’ve got your panels from trusted, reputable brands, the likely culprit is improper installation – especially if it was carried out by inexperienced installers or sometimes, as part of a DIY project.

How Common are Solar Panel Fires?

Solar panel fires are exceptionally rare and are far less common than other types of household fire risks.

A 2022 study even found that for every 1 megawatt (MW) of solar power installed, there are just about 0.0289 fires per year. To put that into perspective, 1 MW of solar power typically serves about 172 homes – which means the fire risk translates to less than 1 in 5,800 homes per year.

That said, the odds of a solar panel-related fire are so low they’re practically negligible, making them statistically one of the safest components of your home.

What Safety Measures Can I Take to Prevent Solar Panel Fires?

Solar panel fires may be rare, but a few proactive steps can make them even less likely.

Choose Microinverter or DC Optimizer Systems

Unlike traditional systems, microinverters convert DC power to AC directly under each panel, eliminating the need for high-voltage DC cables and complex isolator setups. This greatly reduces the chance of electrical arcs.

An added bonus is the rapid shutdown feature, which automatically turns off your solar system during faults or blackouts.

Keep Solar Panels Debris-Free

Regularly check for and remove flammable debris like leaves, twigs, or bird nests that might accumulate under or around your panels. These materials can ignite if exposed to electrical arcs.

Also, there’s good advice out there saying installing critter guards can help. But keep in mind that animals can still chew through them. So, we recommend taking a good look at your solar panels more often.

Lastly, shading (usually caused by bird droppings) is another issue to watch out for as this may cause overheating and spark a fire if flammable materials are nearby. Thankfully though, most modern panels have diodes that allow current to bypass shaded or faulty cells, reducing the risk.

Still, better safe than sorry. While many claim cleaning your solar panels twice a year is enough, we say do it as often as you can, especially if you live in an area with lots of leaves or wildlife.

Monitor Your Solar Panel’s Performance

Most systems come with online monitoring tools that let you track your panel’s output. Doing so will help you spot any underperforming panels, which may indicate issues like loose connections, short circuits, or overheating.

Each solar panel has a manufacturer-stated output (usually in Watts), which tells you how much energy it should generate under ideal conditions. If your panels’ performance falls below their expected output, they may be at risk of malfunctioning or even catching fire.

Ensure Your Solar System Is Properly Labeled

After having your solar panels installed, confirm that your solar system is properly labeled. The installer should ensure that key components, like the inverter and disconnect switches, are clearly marked. This helps you and emergency responders quickly identify and isolate the system in case of a fire or other emergency.

Check Your Roof’s Fire Resistance

For modern homes, this is less of a concern thanks to improvements in building materials and stricter fire safety codes. However, older homes with combustible roofing materials, like wood shingles, do exist and still present a risk. Considerations like adding a fire-resistant layer over your roof are necessary.

Opt for High-Quality Solar Panels

Cheap or defective parts, like inverters, connectors, or junction boxes, can fail and cause electrical malfunctions. Always stick with reputable brands with a track record for safety and durability.

Get a Certified Solar Installer

As mentioned, improper installation is one of the top reasons solar panels can become a fire risk.

Certified installers are trained to set up systems correctly, using organized wiring to prevent hazards like friction against the roof. We’re also able to interpret and implement electrical safety codes properly, making sure your system is safe and legally compliant.

Should I Worry About Solar Panel Fires Happening to My Home?

Not really. As we talked about earlier, the fire risk is incredibly low. Plus, with more people installing solar panels every year, it’s clear that safety concerns aren’t holding anyone back.

For your peace of mind, most homeowners’ insurance policies cover damages caused by solar panel-related fires. Still, it’s a good idea to double-check if your solar panels are covered by home insurance or if necessary adjustments are needed.

Choose a Trusted Solar Panel Installer for Your Home

At Avail Solar, we only choose the best products in the market and strictly adhere to standards and local regulations for solar panel installations.

Our aim is to make your switch to solar as smooth as possible – from design and permitting to installation and ongoing maintenance – so you won’t have to face issues down the line. Request a quote and start enjoying the benefits of solar energy today!

Can You Install Solar Panels on Metal Roof?

Posted on 4. December 2024 by Phill Stevens

The short answer? Yes, you can absolutely install solar panels on metal roof without any worries. And before you even ask:

No, solar panels won’t damage your metal roof or cause leaks.
Yes, metal roofs are more than capable of supporting the weight of solar panels.
And no, having a metal roof won’t negatively impact your panel’s performance (in fact, it’s the opposite)

From our years of experience, we find metal roofs to be the perfect pair for solar panels. Firstly, they’re incredibly durable, with lifespans of more than 50+ years – far beyond the lifespan of your solar panels (which typically last around 25 years). Secondly, metal roofs are naturally energy-efficient. Their reflective properties help keep your home cooler, which complements the energy savings you’ll get from solar panels. Read further to learn more about the installation process and how it varies depending on the type of metal roof you have, as well as answers to common questions to clear up any confusion you have about solar panels on metal roofs.

Solar Panels Installed on Standing Seam Metal Roofs

One of the most common types of metal roofs for solar panel installations is the standing seam metal roof. They’re easy to distinguish from corrugated or ribbed metal roofs due to the raised seams running along the edges of the sheets.

With standing seams, solar panels can be installed without drilling holes in the roof.

This is how it works: The solar panel racks are attached directly to the seams of the roof, using special clamps that would have to be tightened just enough to hold the panels in place, without doing any damage to the roof or panel components.

And because no holes are required to be drilled, there’s no need for messy sealants for leak prevention. This makes the installation a lot cleaner and safer.

One drawback, however, becomes apparent if your roof has a steep pitch. The wide, flat surface between the seams doesn’t provide much grip and can be slippery. So, installers will have to take extra care moving around, which can mean additional time for work, and thus, a higher installation cost.

Solar Panels Installed on Corrugated or Ribbed Roofs

The other common type of metal roof where solar panels are often installed is the corrugated (or ribbed) metal roof, which one can easily identify due to its wavy, ridged appearance.

Unlike standing seam roofs, which don’t require penetrations, corrugated roofs need to be drilled into. Specific attachments are screwed into the roof, and a sealant is applied between the bracket and the roof to prevent leaks where the screws go through.

Now, should you worry about the holes? Not really. An experienced solar panel installer should be capable of sealing the gaps properly. Plus, installers usually offer strong warranties for solar panels to cover any roof issues during installation.

If there’s an advantage a corrugated roof has over a standing seam roof, it is that it provides more traction. The closer spacing of the corrugations allows installers to “anchor” themselves as they walk across the roof. There’s less risk of slipping, and the installation process can be quicker.

Can Metal Roofs Handle the Weight of Solar Panels?

Yes, metal roofs can handle the weight of solar panels. To give you an idea, solar panels add around three pounds per square foot of weight to your roof, which is minimal compared to the overall strength of a well-built metal roof.

If you do have an older roof or one that has previously been damaged, it’s always a good idea to double-check. You can consult a structural engineer or a certified solar panel installer to make sure your roof can manage the added weight of solar panels.

Do I Need to Make Any Modifications to My Metal Roof Before Installing Solar Panels?

In most cases, you won’t need to make any major changes to your metal roof before installing solar panels. However, if your roof is nearing its end of life or you discover it has some serious issues, modifications might be necessary.

After all, you wouldn’t want to install solar panels only to realize your roof needs replacing soon after.

The best approach is to talk to a solar panel installer or, as mentioned, a structural engineer who can provide you with a more detailed inspection of your roof.

Will Solar Panels Damage a Metal Roof?

No, solar panels won’t damage your metal roof – that’s if they’re installed properly.

As discussed, for standing seam metal roofs, no roof penetrations are involved since the racking is simply attached to the seam. On corrugated roofs where drilling is necessary, using the right sealing material and technique should keep your roof protected and secure.

The only real risk of damage comes if the installation is done improperly, which is often the consequence of choosing someone unqualified or inexperienced for the job.

Do Solar Panels Affect the Warranty on My Metal Roof?

It depends on the details of your roof’s warranty. For some roofing companies, installing solar panels won’t void the roof warranty as long as a certified solar panel installer handles the job.

To add to your peace of mind, know that many solar installation companies also offer their own solar panel warranty, which covers roof damage that may occur during the installation of your solar panels.

Can I Use Thin-film Solar Technology on My Metal Roof?

Yes, you can, and thin-film solar panels actually fit perfectly with standing seam metal roofs.

These panels are lighter and more flexible than traditional solar panels, which means they add less structural load to your roof. This makes it more likely that your existing roof can handle the additional weight without issue.

How Do Metal Roofs Compare to Asphalt When it Comes to Installing Roof-Mounted Solar Panels?

Compared to metal roofs, asphalt roofs are generally more prone to hail damage. If this happens, you’ll need to remove your solar panels entirely and reinstall them once the roof is repaired/replaced. This process is not only a hassle but can also be quite costly.

On the other hand, metal roofs are much more resistant to hail, which makes them a preferred choice in areas where hailstorms are common.

Another point to consider is this: Asphalt tends to absorb more heat, which can get trapped between the panels and the roof. This potentially reduces the efficiency of your solar panels.

Metal roofs, being highly reflective, prevent heat buildup. In that sense, your metal roof actually adds to the total energy efficiency of your home.

Should I Install Solar Panels on My Metal Roof DIY?

We’re not against DIY solar panel installation, but before you grab your toolkit, make sure to consider the risks involved.

If things go wrong with a DIY setup, it could decrease your solar panel’s performance or even damage it completely. Fixing that can get pretty expensive, plus, your solar panel warranty could end up being voided.

DIY installation could also lead to unintended roof damage, which can end up being more costly to fix than if you had just called a professional to handle the job. And yes, that could void your roof’s warranty as well.

Lastly, depending on where you live, you might not even be allowed to install solar panels DIY. Many states or cities require a certified professional for the job. Skip that, and you could run into issues getting a solar permit or even face fines.

Certified Solar Panel Installers for Your Metal Roofing

At Avail Solar, we provide up to 30 years of bumper-to-bumper workmanship warranty, covering both your solar panels and the roof they’re installed on.

We’re here to make your transition to solar effortless – from design and permitting to installation and ongoing maintenance – so you can start enjoying the benefits of solar power as soon as possible. Contact us and speak with one of our solar experts today!

Selling a House With Solar Panels: What to Expect

Posted on 2. December 2024 by Phill Stevens

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

Do You Need a Permit to Install Solar Panels?

Posted on 1. December 2024 by Phill Stevens

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.

How Many Solar Batteries are Needed to Power a House?

Posted on 26. November 2024 by Phill Stevens

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:

Appliance	Power Rating (Watts)	Usage (Hours)	Energy Consumption (Watt-Hours)
Refrigerator	150	5	750
LED Light (x5)	50 (10 each)	5	250
TV	100	2	200
Laptop	60	3	180
Ceiling Fan	75	5	375
Microwave Oven	1,000	0.5	500
Phone Chargers (x3)	15 (5 each)	2	30
		Total:	2,285

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.