Residential Solar Power Misconceptions
There are a surprising number of options when it comes to powering your home. While homeowners often assume that the local utility company will be the only way to get power to their home, renewable energy technologies have created more options. Solar panels, in particular, are a popular option when it comes to adding renewable energy sources to residential properties. Read on to learn about some of the myths attached to solar panel system design.
Myth: Solar Panels Will Damage Your Roof
There is a notion that the weight of the solar panels will damage the roof. However, solar panels are relatively light. Most roofs should have no issues with supporting the weight of these devices. During the installation process, the structural integrity of the roof will be inspected to determine whether it will have to be reinforced.
Myth: Solar Systems Provide Intermittent Power
Reliability is one of the most important considerations when choosing a power system for your home. There is a fairly persistent belief that solar systems will provide intermittent or otherwise unreliable power. While it can be easy to assume that the sun going down will cause this system to fail, high-capacity batteries can store enough power to get the home through the evening hours. Additionally, cloud cover will not be an issue for these systems as enough sunlight can make it through the clouds for the system to continue creating power.
Myth: It Is Difficult to Keep the Solar Panels Clear of Debris
It is essential to keep the solar panels free of debris as this will prevent the panels from being able to absorb sunlight to create energy. If the solar panels are on your roof, it may seem like knocking this debris off the panels will be difficult, but a high-powered hose attachment will allow you to use a jet of water to dislodge the materials that may have started to gather on the panels.
Myth: You Can Always Sell Excess Power to the Utility Company
One excellent way of defraying the costs of installing solar panels is through selling the excess energy to the local utility company. However, you should be aware that this is not always possible. Many utility companies do not allow customers to send their additional power to the electrical grid. Additionally, there are other companies that may allow this power to be sent through the grid, but they may not offer you compensation. Carefully reviewing the policies of your local power company is essential if you are to determine whether you will be able to sell your additional power.