Solar Installers Cleland

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Installers

How do I maintain my solar panels?

Solar panels require minimal maintenance. Here are some basic maintenance tasks:

• Keep Panels Clean: Clean panels periodically to remove dirt, debris, and bird droppings, which can reduce efficiency. Rainfall usually cleans panels adequately, but you might need to hose them down occasionally.
• Visual Inspections: Regularly inspect panels for signs of damage, loose wiring, or other issues.
• Professional Maintenance: Consider having a professional solar installer inspect your system every few years to ensure optimal performance.

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells made of silicon. When sunlight hits a solar cell, it creates an electric current. Multiple cells are wired together to form a panel, and multiple panels can be combined to create a solar array.

Will solar panels work during cloudy days or at night?

Solar panels still generate some electricity on cloudy days, although their output will be lower than on sunny days. They do not generate electricity at night. This is why battery storage can be a valuable addition to a solar energy system, as it allows you to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night or during periods of low sunlight.

How do I know if my roof is suitable for solar panels?

A suitable roof for solar panels should have:

• Adequate Sunlight: Unobstructed sunlight for a significant portion of the day.
• Sufficient Space: Enough space to accommodate the desired number of panels.
• Structural Integrity: A strong roof structure capable of supporting the weight of the panels.
• Appropriate Orientation and Tilt: Ideally, the roof should face south (in the Northern Hemisphere) or north (in the Southern Hemisphere) with a tilt angle close to the latitude of your location. However, other orientations and tilts can still be effective.

A qualified solar installer can assess your roof during a site visit and determine its suitability for solar.