You’ve probably noticed solar panels on more and more homes in our area. They are exploding in popularity. The idea is to convert sunlight into electrical energy to use in your home to reduce your energy bill, but we've found many customers are running into issues after they get the panels installed by sub-standard solar companies.
Solar panels are a big investment, if you have a problem after installation getting help can be a challenge with some companies. That is why it is important to work with a solar partner that you can trust.
HONESTY, INTEGRITY, AND EXPERIENCE
The Solar Revolution was founded in 2010 in Boulder, Colorado with the goal of providing superior quality solar solutions with honesty and integrity at our core. With decades of combined experience, we design and install reliable systems, using the highest quality products, in accordance with industry best-practices. We pride ourselves on our work ethic and taking the time to get the job done right.
Below are a few things you should consider before going solar.
Consider the condition of your roof.
The most common spot for PV installations is your roof and it is the main culprit when things go wrong. By definition, the roof is usually connected to a building, which means one wrong move can seriously impact the entire structure.
That’s why a proper assessment of the roof needs to be our number one priority. It is important to remember that some roofs simply aren’t well-designed for PV installations.
Trying to fight that is just asking for trouble.
Here are some of the elements to consider:
Age: Today’s solar panels boast a lifespan of about 20 years, but if your roof may need to be repaired or replaced before then it might make sense to get a roofing company out for their recommendations.
Strength: Solar panels add considerable weight and stress to the roof, so we will need to make sure it’s sturdy and healthy enough to support the additional weight and strain. This holds especially true if you’re working on an older roof.
Condition: Beyond the wear and tear of the initial installation, the roof needs to be in good enough condition to support regular system maintenance throughout its lifetime.
If we determine your roof isn’t up to snuff, we'll work with you to locate a local roofing company. We can often offer combined services, including a new roof or roof repair and a solar installation as a package deal. This will ensure that you have a quality roof and solar system that can be used with minimal additional maintenance for the next 20 years.
Careless, Sloppy Installation
Dragging panels or racks across the roof, being careless about our heavy tools, or leaving junk behind can result in holes, leaks, clogged drainage systems, moisture buildup, ice dams, and massive damage to the roof’s structural integrity. Ensure that your installation crew is up-to-date in all their certifications and has received proper hands-on solar training.
Installing Panels in Shaded Areas
If some panels need to be installed in partially shaded areas, the entire system will suffer and might not perform as well as if exposed to direct sunlight all day long.
Most people don’t realize that solar panels are most commonly installed in series, which means that one shaded panel will affect the entire system’s performance.
There are two solutions to this problem:
Avoid installing panels on partially shaded areas of the roof.
Trim back or cut down any trees that may affect system performance.
Alternatively, if the shading issues aren’t caused by trees and rather neighboring buildings or mountains, it might be better to consider a ground-mounted system if possible.
Make sure you get Solar Panels that are compatible with Battery Packs
Even if you are not considering battery packs for your installation you don't want to limit your future options. It is also a compelling benefit should you chose to sell your home at some point in the future.
The Solar Revolution can help you with expert advice installation, and replacement even if you purchased your system from another supplier. We will also be happy to review your system for you to see if this or other maintenance issues need to be addressed.
Just contact us and we'll setup a no charge system review or new system assessment.