How To Clean Solar Panels
Written by Barrier Insulation Inc

Solar Panel Cleaning

How can you properly clean your solar panels? Follow our step-by-step guide below!

What To Know Before Cleaning Solar Panels

Not all solar panels are the same or feature the same maintenance suggestions, so check the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning. Make safety your number one priority if you decide to do this as a DIY project.

Cooler days are better for cleanings since this minimizes the possibility of cracking glass as the water dries. Do not use a heavy-duty detergent for the cleaning process. Remember to turn the panels off before cleaning, refraining from touching the underside at any point. Call a professional for the job if you have any safety concerns.

Step 1. Clear Off Debris With A Soft Brush

  • Debris, such as dirt and dust, should be brushed away gently with a soft-bristled tool.
  • This cleaning process can be done from the ground if the brush is attached to an extension pole.
  • You will need a ladder in the event your brush does not come with an extension.
  • Wear a hardhat and harness when climbing onto the roof.
  • Start by gently brushing the individual panels.
  • Refrain from adding water to the brush at this time.

Step 2. Spray Panels Down With A Hose

  • A garden hose can be used to wash off any remaining dust or debris.
  • High-pressure washing can damage the panels, so don’t use an excess of water.
  • Damaging the panels with water could void warranties due to noncompliance with manufacturer specifications.
  • If a hose has a high-pressure attachment, it should be removed prior to cleaning.
  • Proceed with caution, carefully spraying each panel.

Step 3. Scrub With A Soft Brush And Water

  • Problem areas can be given extra attention with a sponge or soft cloth dunked into a bucket of clean water.
  • Use a gentle and repetitive motion to wipe away any spots.
  • It’s recommended to use water that is deionized or distilled.
  • Use a squirt of mild, gentle dish soap mixed with one part vinegar and eight parts water for stubborn spots.
  • Once the soap is rinsed, it may leave behind undesirable streaks.

Step 4. Measure The Cleaning Impact

  • Solar panels are rated for solar output within a specific range of watts based on system, location and environmental factors.
  • With low solar outputs, homeowners rely on power from additional energy providers that may drive up energy bills.
  • Review your bills both before and after cleaning your solar panels.
  • Clean panels will have lower energy costs, overall.

Step 5. Contact Professionals For Cleaning Needs

  • Contact a professional if you do not feel you can handle this task in a safe manner.
  • Removal of build-up is part of solar panel upkeep.
  • Remember that solar panels cannot be used while the cleaning process is ongoing.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Solar Panels
Written by Barrier Insulation Inc

How Long Do Solar Panels Last?

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, have a long lifespan and can provide reliable electricity generation for many years. The longevity of solar panels depends on various factors, including the quality of the panels, the manufacturing process, and environmental conditions. On average, solar panels can last for 25 to 30 years or more. Here are key considerations regarding the lifespan of solar panels:

  1. Manufacturer Quality: The quality and durability of solar panels can vary based on the manufacturer. Reputable manufacturers typically produce high-quality panels that are designed to last longer. When purchasing solar panels, it’s essential to choose a trusted brand.
  2. Materials and Design: The materials used in the construction of solar panels, such as the type of solar cells and protective coatings, can significantly impact their longevity. High-quality materials and designs can contribute to a longer lifespan.
  3. Environmental Factors: Environmental conditions play a role in solar panel longevity. Solar panels are designed to withstand exposure to the elements, including sunlight, rain, and snow. However, extreme weather conditions or harsh environments can affect their durability. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help mitigate environmental factors.
  4. Quality Installation: Proper installation by trained professionals is crucial for the longevity of solar panels. Improper installation can lead to issues such as water infiltration or physical damage, which can reduce the panel’s lifespan.
  5. Degradation Rate: Over time, solar panels will experience a gradual decrease in efficiency, a process known as degradation. The rate of degradation is typically low, with most high-quality panels losing about 0.5% to 1% of their efficiency per year. This means that after 25 years, a solar panel may still be operating at around 75% to 87.5% of its original efficiency.
  6. Warranty: Solar panels often come with performance warranties that guarantee a certain level of performance (typically around 80% to 90% of their initial efficiency) for a specific number of years, such as 25 or 30 years. This warranty provides assurance that the panels will continue to produce electricity for an extended period.
  7. Regular Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as cleaning the panels to remove dirt and debris, can help extend their lifespan. Periodic inspections to identify and address any issues are also recommended.

It’s worth noting that even after their stated lifespan, solar panels do not suddenly stop working but instead continue to produce electricity at a reduced efficiency. Many older solar panels continue to generate power for years beyond their warranty period.

When investing in a solar panel system, consider factors like the warranty, manufacturer reputation, and local environmental conditions. Regular monitoring and maintenance will help ensure your panels continue to perform efficiently for decades, making solar power an attractive and sustainable energy option.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation and solar services. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Fun Facts About Solar Energy
Written by Barrier Insulation Inc

Are Solar Panels Right For Me?

Read on to learn more.

Whether solar panels are right for you depends on a number of factors, including:

  • Your energy needs: How much energy does your home or business use each month?
  • The amount of sunlight your home or business receives: Solar panels need sunlight to generate electricity. If your home or business doesn’t receive enough sunlight, solar panels may not be a good option.
  • The cost of solar panels: Solar panels can be expensive, but there are many government incentives available to help offset the cost.
  • Your budget: How much money are you willing to spend on solar panels?
  • Your long-term goals: Do you want to generate all of your own electricity with solar panels, or do you just want to reduce your reliance on the grid?

If you are considering solar panels, we recommend getting a consultation from a solar installer. They can help you assess your needs and determine if solar panels are right for you.

Here are some additional things to consider when deciding if solar panels are right for you:

  • The age of your roof: Solar panels can be installed on roofs of all ages, but if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, you may want to consider replacing it before installing solar panels.
  • The type of roof you have: Solar panels can be installed on most types of roofs, but some roofs, such as metal roofs, may require special modifications.
  • The amount of shade on your roof: Solar panels work best when they receive direct sunlight. If your roof is shaded by trees or other structures, you may need to trim or remove the shade to get the most out of your solar panels.

Are Solar Panels Easy To Maintain?

Yes, solar panels are relatively easy to maintain. The most common maintenance task is cleaning them to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can reduce their efficiency. You can clean your solar panels yourself with a soft cloth and water, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.

Other than cleaning, there is not much else you need to do to maintain your solar panels. They are designed to last for many years with minimal maintenance.

Here are some tips for maintaining your solar panels:

  • Clean them once or twice a year, or more often if they are located in an area with a lot of dirt or dust.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning your solar panels.
  • If your solar panels are covered in snow or ice, you can gently brush them off with a broom. Do not use a pressure washer, as this can damage the panels.
  • If you notice any damage to your solar panels, such as cracks or broken glass, have them repaired by a qualified professional.

By following these tips, you can help keep your solar panels in good condition and maximize their efficiency for many years to come.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about solar panel maintenance:

  • Solar panels are covered by a warranty, which typically covers the cost of repairs or replacement for a period of 20 to 25 years.
  • The amount of maintenance required for solar panels will vary depending on the climate and environment in which they are located.
  • If you live in an area with a lot of dust or dirt, you may need to clean your solar panels more often.
  • If you live in an area with a lot of snow or ice, you may need to remove snow and ice from your solar panels more often.

 

Environmental Benefits Of Solar Energy

How much sunlight do I need to make solar panels worthwhile?

The amount of sunlight you need to make solar panels worthwhile depends on a number of factors, including:

  • The efficiency of your solar panels: The more efficient your solar panels are, the less sunlight you need to generate the same amount of electricity.
  • The size of your solar panel system: The larger your solar panel system, the more sunlight you will need.
  • Your energy needs: The more energy you use, the more sunlight you will need.
  • The location of your solar panels: Solar panels in sunny areas will generate more electricity than solar panels in cloudy areas.

Generally speaking, you need an average of 4 peak sun hours per day to make solar panels worthwhile. Peak sun hours are the amount of sunlight that is available at its strongest point during the day.

For example, if your home receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day, and you have a solar panel system that is sized to meet your energy needs, you can expect to offset about 100% of your electricity costs.

If you live in an area with less sunlight, you may still be able to benefit from solar panels, but you may need a larger solar panel system or you may need to supplement your solar power with other sources of energy, such as a battery or the grid.

It is important to talk to a solar installer to get a personalized estimate of how much sunlight you need to make solar panels worthwhile for your home.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about the amount of sunlight needed for solar panels:

  • Solar panels can still generate electricity on cloudy days, but they will not produce as much electricity as they would on sunny days.
  • Solar panels can also generate electricity in the winter, but they will produce less electricity than they would in the summer.
  • The amount of sunlight available can vary from day to day and from season to season.

By understanding the amount of sunlight you need to make solar panels worthwhile, you can make an informed decision about whether solar panels are the right choice for your home.

Schedule Your Solar Services Today!

Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial solar panel installation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Solar Panel Quotes
Written by webtechs

30 Solar Energy Quotes

U.S. Politician Ken Salazar once said, “I think the future of solar energy is bright!” Let’s take a look at some of the best solar energy quotes!

Quotes About Solar Energy

  1. “Solar power, wind power, the way forward is to collaborate with nature – it’s the only way we are going to get to the other end of the 21st century.” – Bjork
  2. “All energy is ultimately derived for the sun and harvesting it directly through solar power seems to be the best way to transition to renewable energy.” – Peter Rive
  3. “Because we are now running out of gas and oil, we must prepare quickly for a third change, to strict conservation and to the use of coal and permanent renewable energy sources, like solar power.” – Jimmy Carter
  4. “We need to drive the cost of solar energy down to where it’s competitive for bulk power generation.” – Jim Dipeso
  5. “The sun – that power plant in the sky – bathes Earth in ample energy to fulfill all the world’s power needs many times over. It doesn’t give off carbon dioxide emissions. It won’t run out. And it’s free.” – Susannah Locke
  6. “The use of solar energy offers huge potential for natural resource and climate protection, and for the expansion of renewable energies on the road to a future-oriented energy supply.” – Margareta Wolf
  7. “Solar energy is clean, renewable and easy to harvest – and Nevada is blessed to have no shortage of sunshine.” – Jacky Rosen
  8. “Solar power is clean, renewable and cost effective, but it also needs time to develop.” – J.D. Hayworth
  9. “The costs of solar energy across the world have come down so fast that its growth as a cheap, clean energy source has been exponential.” – Barry Gardiner
  10. “Even if you don’t care about the environment whatsoever, solar panels are really cool, and are an investment because they save money in the long run.” – Rutger Bregman
  11. “If anyone has a vested interest in space solar power, it would have to be me.” – Elon Musk
  12. “Solar energy is bound to be in our future. There’s a kind of inevitability about it.” – Jim Inhofe
  13. “Solar power is going to be absolutely essential to meeting growing energy demands while starving off climate change.” – Ramez Naam
  14. “We live in a world bathed in 5,000 times more energy than we consume as a species in the year, in the form of solar energy. It’s just not in usable form yet.” – Peter Diamandis
  15. “I’ve been very passionate about renewable energy for many years, particularly solar energy and its capacity to bring abundant clean, sustainable energy to millions around the globe.” – Richard Branson
  16. “Solar power is the last energy resource that isn’t owned yet – nobody taxes the sun yet.” – Bonnie Ratt
  17. “Once you got a solar panel on a roof, energy is free. Once we convert our entire electricity grid to green and renewable energy, cost of living goes down.” – Elizabeth May
  18. “The use of solar energy has not been opened up because the oil industry does not own the sun.” – Ralph Nader
  19. “We are like tenant farmers chopping down the fence around our house for fuel when we should be using Nature’s inexhaustible sources of energy – sun, wind and tide. I’d put my money on the sum and solar energy. What a source of power! I hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that.” – Thomas Edison
  20. “The whole idea of the solar project is to do something useful and replace dirty energy with clean energy.” – Nick Kelly
  21. “Every 24 hours, enough sunlight touches the Earth to provide energy for the entire planet for 24 years.” –
  22. “I see a lot of opportunity in internet-related start-ups and second is the solar business.” – Masayoshi Son
  23. “In just a few hundred years, we will have to cover the entire surface of the Earth in solar cells if we want to continue our energy usage.” – Jeff Bezos
  24. “Both solar and wind produce too much energy when societies don’t need it, and not enough when they do.” – Michael Shellenberger
  25. “The roof of my house is covered in solar panels. When I’m home, I’m a pretty green fellow.” – Bill McKibben
  26. “You know why we don’t have solar energy? It’s because the sun goes away each day and it doesn’t tell us where it’s going.” – Lewis Black
  27. “There is no shortage of solar and wind energy – and prices are rapidly falling. We can build a clean energy future at modest costs if we want to.” – Andrew Blakers
  28. “The holy grail… is being able to store solar energy for use when the sun isn’t out.” – Julie Franz
  29. “Customer solar energy generation reduces wear on utility lines because most of that solar power is used behind the meter and never travels through the wires.” – John S. Quarterman
  30. “With the cost of energy constantly on the rise, going solar gives you the ability to control rising energy costs and creates positive PR from choosing to go green at your operation.” – Mike Williams

Environmental Benefits Of Solar Energy

Schedule Your Solar Services Today!

Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial solar panel installation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

How Long Do Solar Panel Batteries Last
Written by webtechs

How Long Do Solar Panel Batteries Last?

Most solar batteries sold today will come with a 10-year warranty. However, the total lifespan of these batteries is closer to 20 years. To ensure your battery lasts as long as possible, it’s crucial to place it in area that is protected from inclement weather. Let’s take a look at some factors that can either increase or decrease lifespan of these batteries.

Factors Affecting Solar Battery Life

The majority of home solar battery units will last anywhere between 5 and 15 years. If you install a battery today, it’s very likely you’ll need a replacement in the future to match the 20-year lifespan of our solar energy system. Let’s take a look at the factors below that can impact the life of your solar batteries.

1. Type Of Solar Battery

Solar batteries will be made with one of three different chemical compositions, including saltwater, lithium-ion or lead acid. Let’s take a further look at the three types below.

Lead-Acid Batteries

For decades, these batteries have been used in off-grid energy systems. While they are an inexpensive option, lead-acid batteries do have a shorter lifespan when compared to lithium-ion batteries.

Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are considered the standard when it comes to home energy storage systems. They are lighter, more compact and come with a longer life expectancy than lead-acid batteries. Higher demand as of late has also helped to reduce the cost of these batteries by about 85%.

Saltwater Batteries

Saltwater batteries do not contain any heavy metals, unlike both lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries. Saltwater batteries are the most environmentally-friendly option, but as a newer technology, they remain somewhat untested.

2. Solar Battery Usage

The average life expectancy of a solar battery can be determined by how much it is used. Typically, most batteries are deep-cycle types, meaning they are allowed to discharge up to 80% of their stored energy prior to recharging.  There are a few battery banks that need to be discharged manually before recharging.

3. Solar Battery Warranty

Manufacturers of solar batteries usually offer a wide range of warranties for their products. Lead-acid batteries can be found on the low-end of the warranty spectrum, with lithium-ion batteries being covered for 10-plus years, on average.

4. Solar Battery Maintenance

Proper maintenance and care undoubtedly plays a role in how long the batteries will last. The average annually maintenance costs will range between $150 and $300. Repairs, meanwhile, can cost between $100 and $3,2000.

5. Temperature

Based on where you live, the place you choose to install the battery storage system can make a big difference. Your battery needs to be kept at an optimal temperature to maximize both life and efficiency.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Environmental Benefits Of Solar Energy
Written by webtechs

Environmental Benefits Of Solar Energy

Some of the most common reasons why so many home and business owners go solar are the environmental benefits. Solar panels will produce clean and renewable electricity without the unwanted emissions of air pollutants or carbon dioxide.

Less Dependence On Nonrenewable Energy

Going solar is a great first step toward maintaining an energy-independent home. Solar energy helps to reduce the overall dependence on nonrenewable sources like fossil fuels. Nonrenewable energy sources create many of the pollutants that have a negative impact on our air quality.

Nonrenewable resources are given this name simply because they will run out eventually. The faster the human race makes the full transition to renewable energy, the better for the environment and future generations.

Reduced Air Pollution

Fossil fuels are known to create lots of pollutants, including dirty air and smog. These are undoubtedly bad for the environment and your health. Electricity generated by solar power will drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions (specifically CO2), which is generated when fossil fuels are burned.

This has led to rising temperatures across the globe and climate change, which further leads to environmental and health problems. Going solar will ultimately reduce demand for fossil fuels, limiting the amount of greenhouse gases that are released into the atmosphere.

Reduced Water Usage

If an energy source does not burn fossil fuels for power, then it most likely uses water as a resource. Both hydropower and nuclear energy use lots of water to produce electricity. Solar panels generate their energy directly from the sun without the use of water and without having a negative impact on the ecosystem as a whole.

Combats Climate Change

As the amount of carbon trapped in the atmosphere continues to rise, so too will the amount of heat our planet retains. This trend will continue to affect climates in all different kinds of areas, causing warmer or cooler weather, with the potential of creating sudden and destructive storm patterns.

Scientists and climatologists agree that we need a renewable energy source to curb the negative effects to our climate. Solar energy is one of the ways that can reduce CO2 emissions and release less pollutants into the environment.

Better Long-Term Health For Humans

Cleaner air will result in cleaner lungs for mankind. In fact, the US Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy estimates that cleaner air could have a positive impact on humans with the possibility of saving up to 25,000 lives.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Solar Panels
Written by webtechs

How Much Do Solar Panels Weigh?

On average, solar panels weigh around 40 pounds.

How Much Does A Solar Panel Weigh?

Solar panel weight will vary by manufacturer, but the standard 60-cell panels will still weigh an average of 40 pounds. Some commercial solar panels can weigh up to 50 pounds.

How Much Weight Do Solar Panels Add To A Roof?

For flat roofs, these solar panels typically add about five pounds per square foot. For pitched roofs, meanwhile, panels add about 2.8 pounds per square foot, according to SolectEnergy.

Generally, residential solar panels are 65-by-39 inches with an average weight of 40 pounds. If your roof need some repairs or a replacement, though, it’s strongly recommended to make any adjustments prior to solar panel installation.

Average Solar Panel Dimensions

To find the best panel size for your home or business, it’s important to know the standard sizes that are available today. Each and every panel will consist of solar cells, sized 6-by-6 inches in most cases. Based on the number of cells, there are two common types of panels: residential solar panels (60 cells) and commercial solar panels (72 cells).

Here is a look at the typical dimensions and weights of these types of solar panels.

Residential Solar Panels:

  • Average Length: 65 inches.
  • Number Of Solar Cells: 60.
  • Average Width: 39 inches.
  • Average Depth: 1.5-2 inches.

Commercial Solar Panels:

  • Average Length: 78 inches.
  • Number Of Solar Cells: 72.
  • Average Width: 39 inches.
  • Average Depth: 1.5-2 inches.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation and solar services. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Solar Panels
Written by webtechs

How Long Does It Take To Install Solar Panels?

From the initial meeting with licensed solar professionals to the final inspection, the solar panel installation process can take anywhere from 2-6 months to complete.

Solar Panel Installation Process

This process involves a few key steps to ensure your desired solar system works best for your home and location. The five typical steps in this process include signing a contract, the design phase, acquiring all necessary permits, installation and inspections.

Step 1. Finding Installer And Signing A Contract

Typically, this process will begin with a meeting between the homeowners and licensed professionals. At this time, you can discuss costs, benefits of going solar and design options.

Step 2. Design And Engineering

Once a contract is signed, the experienced solar technicians will visit your home to detail every last bit of the solar energy system design. The professionals will ensure the system is perfectly suited for your home and installation.

Estimated Timeline: 30-45 Days.

Step 3. Permits And Materials

The installers will pull all necessary permits for your installation once the system design is finalized. Homeowners can expect this process to take at least one month.
Estimated Timeline: 30-40 Days.

Step 4. Installation

Once the town has approved the permits for the system, you will be contacted to schedule an installation date. The installation process should take 3 or less days, but on-site issues can arise, occasionally.
Estimated Timeline: 1-5 Days.

Step 5. Inspections

Inspections will be performed after the system is fully installed.
Estimated Timeline: 15-30 Days.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation and solar services. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

How To Install Solar Panel On Roof
Written by webtechs

How To Install Solar Panel On Roof

If you are planning to install solar panels onto a roof for your next DIY project, follow our 10-step guide below!

How To Install A Solar Panel On A Roof

Use our step-by-step guide to effectively and efficiently install solar panels onto a roof.

Step 1.

  • Carefully lay out the locations of the stanchions needed to support the solar panels on the roof.

Step 2.

  • Screw each stanchion through the roof into a roof rafter.
  • Make sure the stanchion flashing fits beneath the roof shingles.
  • This will ultimately prevent roof leaks.

Step 3.

  • Use stainless steel bolts to fasten the upper and lower aluminum rails to the stanchions.
  • Then use an impact driver to tighten the bolts.

Step 4.

  • Measure diagonally across the end of the upper rail all the way to the end of the lower rail.
  • Repeat this to measure the opposite diagonal distance.
  • If these measurements are equal, the rails are square.
  • Adjust one of the rails if the measurements are not equal.

Step 5.

  • Install the middle rail, which needs to align with the upper and lower rails.
  • Run electrical conduit and wiring up to all the solar panels.

Step 6.

  • Next, install a micro inverter below each solar panel.
  • This effectively wires the panels in parallel with each other.

Step 7.

  • Attach a 6-gauge bare copper grounding wire to each inverter at this time.
  • This will ground the entire system.

Step 8.

  • Make the wire connections from one area of one array of solar panels to the next.

Step 9.

  • Set the solar panel onto these stanchions.
  • Snap the plug connections together.
  • Screw the retaining clips to the rails in order to secure the panel.

Step 10.

  • Complete the electrical work by extending the wires from the solar panels, through the new electrical meter and into an electrical sub-panel.
  • Perform this task from inside the basement.

How Much Does Solar Panel Installation Cost?

The typical cost for a 7kW solar system of panels runs around $24,500. This price is dependent on how many watts of power your home will use, multiplied by the current rate of solar panels (per watt) in Arizona. An average home in the valley of the sun will use around 7 kW. The cost of $24,500 includes installation costs and materials.

According to HomeGuide, solar panels will cost about $7 per square foot in Arizona. Prices will range from $4-$10 per square foot. Typically, commercial solar panels in Arizona will cost between $2.50-$3.50 per watt, meaning business owners can expect to pay $3.00 per watt, on average.

Are Solar Panels Worth It?

If you are wondering whether solar panels are worth the investment for your commercial property, the answer is a resounding yes! Solar panels can offset electricity costs by upwards of 75% per month. Additionally, business owners can deduct up to 85% of the system cost from their taxes.

Here is a look at a few of the benefits of solar panels:

  • Reduces electricity costs.
  • Quick return on investment.
  • Maintenance free.
  • Power costs will be locked in for years to come.
  • Huge tax rebates for businesses.
  • Can be financed with no money down and/or low monthly payments.

How Much Money Can You Save With Solar Panels?

Solar panels can save you thousands of dollars throughout the lifetime of these panels. The average homeowner in Arizona can save upwards of $20,000 over the next 20 years following installation. Most homeowners will experience savings between $10,000-$30,000 over 20 years time.

Can Solar Panels Boost Your Home’s Value?

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, installing solar panels can increase your home’s value by $20 for every $1 reduction in annual utility bills. This means that a solar energy system that saves $400 per year on utility bills will ultimately boost your home’s value by $8,000.

There are mixed views by many home experts, though. They believe the value of solar panels truly lies in the eyes of the potential buyer. Some may see it as a plus, others may see it as a negative. Solar panels are just like swimming pools or fences in that regard. It really depends on what the buyer is looking for in a new home purchase.

Once you’ve found the right buyer, there is no doubt these systems will increase your home’s overall value. Enjoy the countless savings on utility bills in the meantime.

Schedule Your Solar Services Today!

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation and solar services. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Solar Carports Costs And Benefits
Written by webtechs

Solar Carports Cost

On average, a solar carport costs about $3.45 per watt for the year 2023, according to EnergySage. Costs are dependent on how much you pay for electricity and the size of your solar system. Solar canopies will help you save even more if your facility uses a lot of electricity. You can quickly lower your bill by using solar energy throughout the peak charging hours.

Residential Solar Carport Cost

Residential solar carports will cost anywhere from $3.45 to $3.99 per watt for installation. In total, a carport will cost between $67,275-$1,332,800. The highest figure accounts for a large 1,000kW system, which covers more than 68,000 sq. feet.

*Costs are according to SolarElectricSupply

Commercial Solar Carport Cost

For the most part there will be no difference between commercial and residentials models when it comes to cost per watt. Commercial carports will cost an average of $3.45 per watt. Energy Sage has done research to show that business owners can sometimes save more than $70,000 per year by installing solar carports. Commercial carports are undoubtedly more popular than residential carports in the U.S.

Solar Carport

Solar Carport Benefits

These ground-mounted solar panels continue to be installed in parking lots across the country. The carports do not require any extra construction or land, as they can be built on pre-existing lots. Here are a few environmental and monetary benefits of solar carports:

1. Reduce Energy Costs

This is the biggest reason why so many home and business owners opt for solar carports. Electricity costs can be unpredictable, rising at an alarming rate throughout the years. Solar carports will help you control your electricity costs and keep them steady for a long time. Solar systems will help stabilize a company’s cash flow. This allows flexibility to invest in other areas of the industry or business.

2. Efficient Use Of Space

As mentioned above, installing a carport will require no new construction to the existing parking lot(s). Instead, these carports will simply add convenience and comfort to your employee or customer experience. Carports not only protect from sunlight, but can help shield vehicles from any sort of inclement weather.

3. Adaptability

Carports can be used to fit the needs of any business, big or small. Everything from style to size can be customized with these carports. The construction can be completed quickly and the savings will begin to pile up almost instantly.

4. Reduce Carbon Footprint

Your business can have sustainable operations benefiting both the environment and community once these carports are installed. Consumers do tend to support companies that commit long-term to sustainability.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

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