Get matched with top solar panel pros in Brownstown, IL

Yes, you should tell your home insurance company about your solar panels. Even if you believe they’re covered by your existing policy, installing a solar panel system is a significant change to your home. This can affect coverage and premiums. By discussing your new solar panel installation with your insurance provider, you can be sure you have enough coverage and that the policy completely covers the panels against damage.

While you can install solar panels by yourself, it can be a complicated process full of lots of manual labor, risky roof work, and knowledge of electrical wiring. Most solar panel installation projects should be reserved for a trained professional—especially if you plan on connecting your panels to the electrical grid rather than for off-grid use, which doesn’t require utility services.

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. 

Solar panels should get at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily. It’s even better if sunlight reaches panels between the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This is enough to power a home, depending on your solar system’s size and energy needs. Remember that panels will generate some power under cloudy skies or in the shade, and many systems compensate for lower sun exposure by drawing energy from the grid or battery storage.