Solar Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
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Please contact the support team via email at panasonicsolar@us.panasonic.com.
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Our Installer Locator provides listings of authorized installers in your local area.
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Look for experience, proper licenses, insurance, references, proximity, and a provider you can trust and work with. To ensure a reasonable price, solicit bids from several providers and compare offers. Ask these questions also:
- Do they provide a timeline and checklist?
- Do they offer on-site inspection and bill analysis?
- Do they provide a multi-year financial and energy prediction?
- Will they handle all paperwork, permits, utility agreements, etc.?
- Is there a full system warranty for five years (or more)?
- Have they accounted for shade, poles, wires or future buildings?
- Do they include annual maintenance checks or cleaning?
- Is there a monitoring package included, so you can view the results of your solar system over the Internet?
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Yes, before you install a solar system it is best to increase your home’s energy efficiency. Install energy saving LED lights and insulation, and upgrade to energy efficient appliances and windows, where possible. When your house is more energy efficient, the solar system you purchase can be smaller (and cost less!) to meet your energy needs.
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Solar systems should be oriented south or west to maximize performance. Shade affects solar system performance. Keep trees and bushes trimmed and wash panels as needed to keep off dust, dirt, and bird droppings. Allow space between your roof and panels to let air flow underneath and keep panels cool. Your installer can help with this.
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Yes, your solar system should be placed where there are minimal amounts of shade from trees, buildings, chimneys, satellite dishes or other objects.
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The amount of space your solar system needs depends on the amount of electricity you want to generate. Most homes require between 220ft.2 and 440ft.2, which is equivalent to a solar system size of 4kW-8kW using Panasonic solar modules.
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Yes, if your roof is old or requires repair, it is best to fix or replace it before you install a solar system. Please check with your solar provider for their recommendation regarding your roof.
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The ease of installation makes solar systems an easy choice for most people. Installation for a house usually takes 1-7 days depending on the size and complexity of your system.
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Talk with your solar provider about time requirements. Often, solar systems can be installed without the need for someone to be at home.
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Your solar provider will know the details of connecting your system to the electric grid and complying with local codes. They will advise you about any additional components that may be necessary.
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It is recommended to clean the panel surface twice per year to optimize production as per the cleaning instructions outlined in the installation manual. Ask your solar provider about a maintenance package, including cleaning, checking wiring and electrical connections, and checking the overall condition of your system.
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Weather conditions and cloud cover may vary from time to time and can affect the output of your system by plus or minus 12% per year. Thus, your system may produce more or less power than originally estimated. (Source: DOE)
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There are no moving parts to break (meaning no mechanical wear and tear) so systems will last for decades without failure. If the system stops producing solar power, contact your solar provider for a service call. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPAIR THE SOLAR SYSTEM YOURSELF.
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No. Solar panels are silent. However, the inverter may hum slightly. Racking may contract and expand which may cause some metallic noise.
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Yes, solar panels absorb various spectrums of visible and invisible light. But the energy produced by your solar system will be less on cloudy days than on clear and sunny days.
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Yes. Solar systems work in different weather conditions, and often work better in cold temperatures during winter months as colder temperatures cause an increase in the conductivity of metals and wires.
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It depends on the amount of snow and ambient temperature. However, if the solar panel is covered partially or entirely by snow, it can decrease energy generation.
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Solar panels are tested to meet certain safety requirements such as impacts of 1" hail, wind loads up to 50PSF, and certain fire standards. Your solar provider will attach and install your system to ensure it meets local code requirements.