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The best solar panels to withstand hail are those rated UL 61730. These solar panels are certified to withstand hailstones up to 3 inches in diameter and travel at speeds up to 88 mph. IP68 solar panels are the next most resilient solar panel. Solar panels without these ratings can handle hail up to 1 inch in diameter that travels up to 50 miles per hour. If you live in an area with frequent or severe hailstorms, purchasing UL 61730 solar panels is often worth the investment.

The best way to save money on solar panels is to take advantage of federal and state solar incentives. For example, the solar investment tax credit (ITC) offered by the federal government can save 30% of your total—if you can take the entire credit, which is based on income taxes owed—or an average of around $9,000. You can check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) for state and local incentives that could save you even more.

Yes, it is possible to install solar panels on a tar and gravel roof, but it is not the ideal roofing material for a solar installation. The process requires roof penetrations to install the solar racking system. While installers will seal these penetrations, they still increase the risk of leaks. This risk is higher on tar and gravel roofs, which are often flat. Flat roofs are more prone to leaks than sloped roofs because they can pool water during heavy rain and hold snow for longer periods, exposing the roof to more moisture.

Ideally, you want to place them facing true south. This is different from what a compass shows, which is called the magnetic south. You can find true south by using an online calculator as long as you know the longitude and latitude of your property. Solar panel placement is key to maximizing the energy you generate, so this is an important step.