Get matched with top solar panel pros in Patten, ME

You’ll need to make sure you have a big enough solar panel to meet your well pump’s power demands, but you can use solar power to fully operate your well pump. It’s also a good idea to have battery storage to hold the solar power so you can still use your well pump after dark.

Insurance companies aren’t against solar panels, but they may have concerns about the risks and costs of insuring solar. The type of policy, where you live, and the insurance company itself matter. Extreme weather can damage solar panels, and faulty installation or electrical malfunctions pose a fire risk—this, in turn, can increase insurance company liability and payouts. However, you’re likely to keep coverage as long as you have a pro install the solar system, keep it maintained, can pass a solar panel inspection, and update your homeowners policy to include solar.

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 cases, solar panels are covered by homeowners insurance because they are considered a permanently attached part of the home, and you may not need additional coverage. However, it is essential to read the fine print of your specific policy to understand the extent of the coverage, as some policies might only cover certain types of damage, such as hail. Always check with your insurance provider before installing solar panels to ensure your policy provides adequate coverage for your investment.