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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. 

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.

On average, a typical fridge uses 115 kWh per month. With eight hours of sunlight per day, a 100-watt solar panel can produce 30 kWh per month. This means you’ll need at least four dedicated panels to power the refrigerator with solar energy. Consult with a solar power specialist to get a more accurate estimate.

Yes, installing solar panels or a solar roof can increase your home's value by approximately 4% to 6%. For a home with a median value of $429,000, this could translate to an increase of around $17,000. A well-maintained solar installation appeals to environmentally-conscious buyers and those looking to lower their utility bills, often helping homes sell faster and at a premium in areas with high electricity rates. However, the exact increase in value depends on factors like the local real estate market, energy costs, and available solar incentives. It's also important that the system is correctly installed and maintained; an older or poorly maintained system may not add significant value, particularly if it's near the end of its lifespan. Other solar features, like panels on a shed, can also boost your home's value.