Solar fAQ
To provide you with a better understanding of the process and the benefits of solar panels, we have compiled some frequently asked questions that we receive on a daily basis.
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Q: How can I determine if my home is ready for solar?
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To assess the suitability of solar systems for your property, various factors are evaluated. If you're wondering whether your house is solar-ready, the best course of action is to contact us. We will schedule an energy assessment at your convenience. Our team of professionals at Long Isalnd 4Clean Energy Solar will thoroughly evaluate every aspect of your property to estimate its solar power generation potential. This assessment will provide you with a clear understanding of the value and feasibility of your solar investment.
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What is the lifespan of solar panels?
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Solar panels, along with other system components, are designed to last at least 25 years. We provide a warranty that covers the panels, inverter system, and other parts. You can rest assured knowing that any system component that malfunctions within the next 25 years will be repaired by us. Furthermore, advanced testing suggests that some of the latest components we use can surpass their original warranty by an additional five to ten years.
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How long does the installation of solar panels take?
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Our installation team will arrive at your home on the scheduled day fully equipped to install your new solar panels. The majority of the installation work takes place outdoors. However, we may need brief access to the building to connect the system to the electrical panel.
Rest assured that we take pride in maintaining the cleanliness of the spaces we work in, and we clean up as we go to leave your home in pristine condition.
The duration of the installation process depends on the size of the job. It can range from half a day to two days. We provide accurate estimates of the installation time based on the specific scope of your project so that you have a clear understanding of what to expect.
Rest assured that we take pride in maintaining the cleanliness of the spaces we work in, and we clean up as we go to leave your home in pristine condition.
The duration of the installation process depends on the size of the job. It can range from half a day to two days. We provide accurate estimates of the installation time based on the specific scope of your project so that you have a clear understanding of what to expect.
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How often do I need to maintain my solar array?
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Solar energy systems require minimal maintenance while providing clean and reliable electricity. These systems are designed with few moving parts and built to prevent most issues. Cleaning the solar panels every three to five years is typically necessary to remove dust and debris that can accumulate on their surface. This maintenance ensures that your panels continue to generate energy efficiently, as initially projected in our energy analysis.
Under a maintenance contract, we offer cleaning services and ensure the proper functioning of your panels. We also conduct regular inspections to identify any faults or damages that may need attention, although they should be rare.
Under a maintenance contract, we offer cleaning services and ensure the proper functioning of your panels. We also conduct regular inspections to identify any faults or damages that may need attention, although they should be rare.
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Will I still receive an electric bill if I install solar panels?
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Yes, you will still receive an electric bill, but it will be significantly reduced compared to what you're used to. Before proceeding with the installation, we conduct a comprehensive energy study to determine the amount of energy your solar system can generate. This analysis gives you an estimate of the monthly production and potential savings.
Once your solar array is operational and net metering is in place, any excess energy you generate will be credited to your account. This surplus can be used to offset future utility costs. If you produce more energy than you consume in a given month, your only expense will be the standard monthly hookup fee, typically around $12 to $15.
Once your solar array is operational and net metering is in place, any excess energy you generate will be credited to your account. This surplus can be used to offset future utility costs. If you produce more energy than you consume in a given month, your only expense will be the standard monthly hookup fee, typically around $12 to $15.
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What happens during a blackout?
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When there is a grid outage, a conventional panel layout will cause your system to go down. This function is for safety. During a blackout, the grid needs to be protected from incoming sources, which is why your home will stop exporting. This safeguards machinery and any linemen who could be engaged in power restoration.
Even though you have solar panels, you will lose power along with the rest of the grid in this scenario. Major blackouts do occur, despite how uncommon they are.
Localized power problems may cause trouble even without a significant blackout. You can take into account the following scenario if you desire steady electricity even during maintenance windows or brief blackouts.
Even though you have solar panels, you will lose power along with the rest of the grid in this scenario. Major blackouts do occur, despite how uncommon they are.
Localized power problems may cause trouble even without a significant blackout. You can take into account the following scenario if you desire steady electricity even during maintenance windows or brief blackouts.
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Can I Live Off-Grid Using Smart Solar Solutions?
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You're aware of the potential savings and environmental benefits that come with installing solar panels. This is a crucial question many homeowners ask themselves.
While smart solar solutions offer numerous advantages, it's important to note that your home will still remain connected to the grid. In most cases, rooftop solar panels alone may not provide sufficient power throughout the entire year. Technological limitations prevent the installation of battery backup systems that can power a family home for extended periods.
While smart solar solutions offer numerous advantages, it's important to note that your home will still remain connected to the grid. In most cases, rooftop solar panels alone may not provide sufficient power throughout the entire year. Technological limitations prevent the installation of battery backup systems that can power a family home for extended periods.
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What impact do solar panels have on the value of my home?
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Installing solar panels will significantly increase the value of your home.
This is not mere speculation; it is supported by numerous studies conducted in the real estate sector. Recent reports indicate that homes with solar panels sold for an average of 4.1% to 4.5% higher prices across the United States. In particular, the premium was even higher in New York, where solar-equipped homes sold for a 5.4% and more premium. If you consider the exorbitant electricity bills we all face, it becomes evident why such a premium exists.
In other words, your investment in green energy becomes a valuable resource not just for you, but also as a selling point for potential buyers if you decide to sell your house.
This is not mere speculation; it is supported by numerous studies conducted in the real estate sector. Recent reports indicate that homes with solar panels sold for an average of 4.1% to 4.5% higher prices across the United States. In particular, the premium was even higher in New York, where solar-equipped homes sold for a 5.4% and more premium. If you consider the exorbitant electricity bills we all face, it becomes evident why such a premium exists.
In other words, your investment in green energy becomes a valuable resource not just for you, but also as a selling point for potential buyers if you decide to sell your house.
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What is solar net metering?
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When designing a solar solution for your home, several factors are considered, such as the size of your residence, available roof space for panels, roof location and slope, and any potential obstructions like adjacent structures or trees that might cast shadows on the panels throughout the day. Through the use of satellite pictures, drones, and software, we can determine how much solar energy your home will generate throughout the year.
Solar energy production is not constant due to factors like the sun's lower position in the sky and shorter days in winter, resulting in lower productivity.
Solar energy production is not constant due to factors like the sun's lower position in the sky and shorter days in winter, resulting in lower productivity.
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How much all of this costs?
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The price of a solar panel is determined by various factors, including its capacity, the technology used in its manufacturing, the specific variant or model of the solar PV panel, its quality, the manufacturer, and the brand. Similar criteria apply to other components of the solar system, which collectively contribute to the overall cost.
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How should solar panels be kept and cleaned?
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To clean solar panels and remove loose debris, rinse them with clean water. Use a soft scrubber and soapy water from a bucket or mixing sprayer to gently scrub the surface of the panels.
Most manufacturers recommend cleaning solar panels every six months. There are professional panel cleaners available in the market, or you can opt for automated cleaners that can be programmed to clean the panels as needed.
Using a garden hose, you can wash the face of the panels in the early morning or evening. However, avoid spraying cold water on hot panels to prevent the risk of cracking.
Most manufacturers recommend cleaning solar panels every six months. There are professional panel cleaners available in the market, or you can opt for automated cleaners that can be programmed to clean the panels as needed.
Using a garden hose, you can wash the face of the panels in the early morning or evening. However, avoid spraying cold water on hot panels to prevent the risk of cracking.
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What do i need to do to keep the system going?
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Solar power systems typically require minimal maintenance and can last for years between checks. Rain should wash away the pollen and dust that settle on your solar panels. If your system is shaded by trees, regular pruning and maintenance of branches may be necessary to prevent damage from falling limbs, reduce shading, and increase energy yield. During exceptionally snowy winters, you may need to shovel snow off your roof to ensure maximum winter energy output. It is advisable to use a specialized tool for solar panels rather than metal or other hard surfaces to avoid damaging them while clearing snow.