Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Power

At Saskatoon Solar, our customers ask many questions about solar power. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about solar energy.

How Does Solar Power Work?

When sunlight hits the solar panels, it triggers a chemical reaction that generates a Direct Current power. This power flows to the inverter, transforming it into an Alternating Current power. This conversion is vital because your home and the electric grid run on AC power. From there, the power flows into your home to run appliances and provide lighting or to the power electric grid. Also, you can divert solar panel energy to a battery and store it if you have an excess supply. A battery operates as a DC power source.

What Are the Benefits of Solar Power?

Solar energy system installation can save you money on your monthly electricity bills. Also, you safeguard yourself against increasing or fluctuating electricity rates. The money you'll save by installing a home solar energy system depends on the local solar policies and utility rates. Nevertheless, installing a solar power system is a wise investment, no matter where you live.

Will My Solar Power System Generate Electricity on a Rainy or Cloudy Day?

Yes. Solar panels don't generate electricity at night. However, they will produce electricity on a rainy or cloudy day. But they will generate more electricity on sunny days. For solar panels to produce electricity, they require direct sunlight. Therefore, they create more electricity when more sun hits them. But they will still produce electricity even if it's only bright sunny some hours during the day.

How Does Installing a Solar Power System Benefit the Environment?

Besides the financial benefits, solar power systems benefit the environment. Any renewable energy source has numerous health and environmental benefits. Solar power system installation reduces greenhouse gas emissions, enabling you to participate in reducing climate change. Also, solar energy has fewer air pollutants, such as particulate matter and sulfur dioxide, which has numerous health problems.

What is the Cost of Solar Panels?

Solar power price has dropped significantly over the last decade. However, the cost of solar panels depends on various factors, including size, brand, and type. Please get in touch with us to get an estimate for your solar panels. Our experts can also guide you to install solar panels to produce the necessary power for your home or farm.

How Does Roof Orientation Affect My Solar Power System?

Roof orientation influences your solar panels' direction, which affects the amount of electricity they produce. Northerly orientation is usually the best. However, a professional solar installer will consider your roof orientation to place the panels in their best locations and maximize electric production.

Should I Clean Solar Panels After Installation?

Most solar panels are self-cleaning. When it rains, surface runoff will drain dust and debris away. However, your solar panels might collect debris, dust, and bird droppings if it doesn't rain for an extended period, reducing the amount of electricity they produce. Therefore, checking and cleaning your solar panels might be necessary. Use a soft cloth and a horse to clean your solar panels.

Can Solar Panels Increase My Home's Value?

Yes. Solar panel installation increases a property's value. Most property buyers prefer homes with solar power systems because they lower monthly electricity bills. Moreover, they avoid the cost of installing solar panels upon moving into residences with solar power systems.

Can I Get Free Solar Panels?

Nothing is free in life. However, you can lower the cost of installing solar panels by exploiting federal or state government tax incentives. Please research the available tax incentive programs to determine what can work best for you.