The solar roofing boom is here for real in the Bay Area, and we’re excited to see the solar revolution spread, bringing substantial energy efficiency to thousands of Californians and reducing both carbon emissions and our collective dependence on The Grid. That said, many “solar curious” consumers still feel somewhat intimidated by the prospect of switching over. To that end, we’ve prepared the following brief FAQ about solar roofing installations and system maintenance.

1. Will your system break?

As with any other electronic system, solar roofing can malfunction. However, most solar roofing systems come with lengthy warranties on their most important components. Depending on the company’s policy and the specifics of the part, warranties may last as long as 25 years.

2. What can you do to hedge against problems?

Keep your panels clean of debris, particularly after big storms and during the fall season; spot and repair problems before they grow and spread; and have professionals check your panels on a regular basis to ensure optimum performance.

3. How will you know that the system is working properly?

To prevent problems, you need to monitory your system’s function continuously. Fortunately, most solar companies monitor the systems they install and inform customers when problems occur.

4. What if you need to fix your roof?

Depending on the nature and scale of the damage, the solar panels may need to be removed first. Unfortunately, the solar company will not cover this cost. Thus, if you have an older roof, or you need to make repairs, take care of these issues before you install solar roofing. Another great way to avoid problems with finger pointing as solar and roofing companies claim the other is responsible is to have one company perform both a roof inspection and a solar installation for you, this way you have one party to deal with in the event of an issue and your installer has a greater incentive to ensure a perfect job.

Solar Roofing Puts Money in Your Pocket and Eliminates Green House Gas Emissions

Transitioning to a solar energy household can be exciting but also scary, especially if you’re used to using grid energy, and you’re already engaged in big projects, such as moving into a new home or finishing a big remodel. We can help! Call the Century Roof & Solar professionals at (888) 233-7548 or (510) 780-9489 or contact us from our website to learn more about your roofing options and to price out various energy saving strategies.

Researchers at the Pacific Energy Center in Northern California, for instance, found that solar panels engineered and deployed during the 1970s (when solar technology was really at the beginning) continue to deliver power today, four decades later, producing power ratings of around 80% of their initial capacity. That’s tremendous efficiency after 40 years of use and abuse – remember, these panels were some of the first ever built and used.

Analysts believe that most solar panels will bleed efficiency at a rate of about 0.5% annually. That means it will take 50 years for your panels to lose just a quarter of their original power.

Factors that may influence the longevity of solar panels:

1. Thin film panels may burn out faster than crystalline panels;
2. Harsh weather conditions (wind, rain, sleet, dust storms, etc) can pummel panels and shorten life expectancy;
3. Dirty, snow covered, scratched up panels are obviously going to get ground up faster;
4. Even after 25 years – a quarter of a century – most solar panels will continue to produce significant power, thus they will almost assuredly easily pay for themselves many times over.

Of course, the quality of your solar panel installation can also be crucial. Trust the team here at Century Roof & Solar to design, test, and engineer the best solar power solution for your home, business, or organization.

We have been the premier solar solution provider for the Bay Area since 1996, and we are masters at installing integrated photovoltaics. Learn about our possible solar solutions for you at www.centuryroofandsolar.com, or call us toll free at (888) 223-7548 to get your project questions answered by our seasoned solar specialists.

Sun image source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun