Get matched with top solar panel pros in Dell Rapids, SD

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.

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.

Removing solar panels can be straightforward, but it’s not necessarily a simple process. Your contractor needs to prevent damage—not only to your panels but also to your roof and electrical system. Many systems are wired into the main electrical grid, and you’ll need to hire a licensed electrician to disconnect it.

The morning sun can be better for solar panels because it’s often brighter and clearer than the afternoon sun. The brighter the sun, the more energy solar panels produce. The strongest rays occur during midday, which tends to be prime time for solar energy generation. Most homes get a mix of morning and afternoon sunlight.