We’ve created this solar panel FAQ as a way to help answer about general solar power, solar panel systems, the solar installation process, and more.
Most solar energy systems are connected to the electric grid, which means that when the power goes out, your panels will power down and won't be able to generate electricity. When the power grid goes down, your panels have a built-in safety feature that causes them to stop producing electricity automatically. This feature prevents your panels from pushing the electricity produced into the grid while utility workers try to repair them, which could have dangerous results.
Your electricity bill will likely look different than you're used to after you've made the switch to solar. Thanks to net metering, you can receive money back for overproduced electricity that goes into your local grid. Your electricity bill could reflect this credit as compensation for the amount of electricity received.
However, using more electricity than your system produces will pull power into your home from the grid. Each month, your electricity bills total your home uses minus the overproduced electricity produced by your solar panel system.
Net metering is the system that credits you back for your excess solar energy which could result in a payout from your local power company. You will only be responsible for paying for the electricity you pull from the grid that's beyond your solar production. These policies will vary by state, so it's a good idea to consult your solar energy consultant or research your specific area to ensure you have clear, accurate information.
If at any time you believe that your solar panel system is experiencing a problem, contact our support team as soon as possible at (850) 220-6533 or email [email protected] The sooner we know the problem and can investigate it, the sooner we can get your system back up and running!
Do you know how a residential solar panel system works? While it may seem complicated, there are only few key pieces to learn in order to get a complete picture of what your solar system can do!
If your solar panels generate electricity that surpasses your home needs, the excess energy flows through your utility meter and enters the power grid. Alternatively, if your usage exceeds the electricity your solar power system can generate, you can also draw electricity from the grid.
There are several variables to consider when determining the correct size for your solar system. Meraki Solar's team of experts will scale the size of your system based on your home's size, the amount of power your family uses, and a few other factors. Here are some things that we consider when calculating how many panels to put on your roof:
Before we install solar panels, we always take the time to discuss each homeowner's needs so that we can suggest a system that will meet or surpass expectations. Your solar energy system should produce enough power for your whole home to reduce dependency on the grid.
A solar panel system's cost varies depending on factors such as the number of panels required for your family, any roof updates needed, and more. Local factors can also affect the price of your system, like the costs of labor and materials. However, saving options are unique to each state, like tax credits, incentives, and more. Ask your solar energy consultant or a qualified financial advisor for more information and to see what's available for you!
One of the best things about solar is that it's made up of technology that requires minimal maintenance. The PV cells have no moving parts, so it's unlikely that your equipment will fail or need replacing during the lifespan of your solar panels.
The wiring may sometimes need replacement or repair if rodents or weather damage them, but that's generally on a case-by-case basis. Additionally, your inverter may need to be replaced around 10-12 years after your installation is complete.
The solar panels on your roof will typically stay clean and clear thanks to natural weather like rain or snow, depending on your region. Still, it can be helpful to get a professional cleaning occasionally in dry seasons.
During your installation, ask your solar installer for recommendations for qualified solar professionals that can visit your home to inspect your panels every 3-5 years to ensure everything is still working correctly.
Once you've decided to go solar, it generally takes about three to four months for the process from the initial meeting to installation. In that time, your installation team will design your system based on your needs and secure the necessary permits from the local government and any required agreements from your power company.
Project timelines may vary depending on the above factors, but your installation team will keep you updated as needed. Once all the required documents are secured, our team will schedule your installation. On your installation day, the team will install your racking system, the panels, the wiring, and the inverter.
Once installation is complete, your solar panel system will be inspected and pending approval by your county or local government. The solar panel installation is only considered complete once the inspections come back approved.
Our experts can install rooftop solar panel systems on just about any roofing material and structure. Solar panels are attached to the roof through a racking or bracketing system. This system secures them to your roof, regardless of the material. The most common roofing materials and structures that are successful with rooftop solar installations are:
Before installing the solar panels, there will be a thorough inspection of your roof and the condition of the existing materials to ensure the installation will be successful. If there are any repairs or replacements required, you will be notified by the inspector.
Additionally, if your roof has obstructions like a chimney, HVAC vents, peaks, etc., those aspects may impact the design and success of your solar installation design. If that's the case, your solar team can discuss other options with you on a case-by-case basis.
Going solar can initially seem overwhelming, but our experts are here to help you learn about solar energy and better understand what it can do for you and your family. Our customer-first approach will help take all the pressure off you so you can get back to living the life you love.