Get matched with top solar panel pros in Flomaton, AL

In most cases, installing solar panels will not void your roof warranty. To keep roof warranties intact, check your written warranty or call the manufacturer to ask about clauses regarding roof penetrations. You can also protect yourself by getting written approval or a modified warranty that specifically allows the solar installation type you’re planning. Then, hire a professional solar installer that follows roofing manufacturer instructions and protects the roof during installation.

Although solar panels harness the sun's power, they come at an environmental cost. The manufacturing process requires large amounts of water and involves hazardous materials like cadmium, silicon, and gallium arsenide. These materials don’t pose safety hazards while the panels are in use but can pose a problem when left in landfills. Over time, hazardous materials can leach into the environment. This is why recycling solar panels whenever possible is better than taking them to landfills.

Learn about common solar blockers in your area to determine how often you should wash solar panels and the best cleaning method:

• Soot: If you have a fireplace, soot can disperse and accumulate on the solar panels.

• Debris, dirt, and leaves: These natural elements require light cleaning. Being close to trees or living in a desert area can cause more of these to accumulate.

• Pollen: Areas with a high pollen count require more frequent solar panel cleaning, and sticky plant material requires a deeper cleaning.

• Bird droppings: Bird droppings are binding and more difficult to remove. Keep this in mind if you live near a lot of surrounding trees. 

In most states, solar installers need to be licensed and insured as solar professionals, although some states don’t have specific requirements for installers. You can use our state licensing tool to check if an installer you’re considering hiring holds the proper licensing. No matter where you live, a member of your solar panel installation company must be a certified electrician to connect your panels to your home and the electric grid.