Solar Energy Systems FAQs

1. Why would I want to go solar?
   
   1. Solar energy can greatly reduce your electricity bill and a solar system will eventually pay for itself, by providing a great investment for the future.
   2. Texas electrical prices are on the rise. Since deregulation, prices have risen 40%. Our previous rates are only a hint of what we have in store … Many sources are now saying rates will double in just the next few years. Going green with solar gives you a hedge against inflation, rising electrical costs.
   3. Solar energy is good for the planet because it helps curb the effects of global warming. Solar helps reduce green house gases by offsetting fossil fuel-based electricity production such as coal and natural gas power plants.
   
   
2. How much solar energy will I produce?
   Each solar system is different and many factors must be considered to answer this question completely. Your roof pitch and roof orientation (degrees off due South), total system size and the type of panels and inverters will all affect your final production. A south-facing roof is the ideal location to place a solar system, but you will only loose 15% of your total solar generation, by installing a system on the west-facing areas. Our typical 3 KW system will produce 388 Kwhr a month.
   
   
3. Do I need to get a battery backup for my solar system?
   Most other companies ignore this question and say you don’t need to have or it’s just too costly to install. A battery backup system is ideal for Texas customers who experience power outages and electrical problems. Remember that when the power goes off on a traditional solar system, you are also without power. Systems at TX Wind and Solar will allow you to have 3 to 5 days of battery back up, a sub panel for your key circuits, and surge suppression for your entire home.
   
   
4. How large of a Solar System can I place on my roof?
   Most customers are not able to put enough solar panels on their homes to completely offset their electric bills. The defining factor is usually not budget, but the amount of available southern- facing roof area. A good simple rule to remember is that you will need 100 square feet of roof space for every 1000 watts of solar energy produced. Systems can be installed on any kind of roof, including composite shingles, clay tiles, flat roofs and standing metal seams. A ground mount system may be your answer if roof space is a problem.
   
   
5. How efficient are photovoltaic solar panels?
   Until recently, most panels installed were between 11-13% efficient. Recent technological advances have greatly improved panel efficiencies. Our panels are 18-21% efficient. This can really play an important role when roof space is such a premium. Remember that higher efficiency panels will require less roof space.
   
   
6. Why are panels at TX Wind and Solar so much greater in efficiency?
   Most other companies are using polycrystalline panels. TX Wind and Solar uses a monocrystalline panel. (See Glossary for panel explanations) Traditional systems are available from us, see a specialist for details.
   
   
7. Will the solar system be damaged by bad weather?
   The racking system and solar panels are designed to withstand up to 100 mph winds. Solar panels are also designed to withstand 1-inch hail at 60 mph. Hail insurance is available from us if you still are concerned.
   
   
8. How often does a solar system need to be serviced?
   Solar systems, once installed are fairly maintenance free. Cleaning your panels is a great way to keep up your efficiencies and we offer yearly cleaning services for you. Solar systems have been tested and found to perform for up to 30 years.
   
   
9. What kind of warranty does a solar system have?
   Most solar modules are covered by a 25-year power warranty. The racking system and inverters are typically covered under a 10-year warranty. TX Wind and Solar gives a 2-year warranty on installation.
   
   
10. How much will it cost to get a solar system installed?
    Each type of system, with its individual features and benefits is priced differently. In general, most systems run between 8-10 dollars a Watt. After tax credits and rebates, most systems are 50% less in price. Contact a specialist from TX Wind and Solar for more details.
    
    
11. What type of payback can I expect to receive on my solar investment?
    Calculating payback is something every company seems to do differently. You must factor in costs of future electrical prices, that are unknown, but increasing at an alarming rate, the final cost of your system (less tax credits and rebates), and what the lifetime (30 plus years) of a solar system can do for you. We have found that most payback periods are less than ten years, on solar only systems. Hybrid Wind systems have a 5-7 year payback.
    
    
12. Will I need to increase my homeowners insurance because of my purchase?
    Normally not, but be sure to check with your agent on your individual policy. Typically rates do not go up but it depends on your insurance company. You will need to consult with your agent to ensure you are properly covered.
    
    
13. Does TX Wind and Solar carry insurance when they install my system?
    Yes. This is extremely important to you and to us. Many new companies are not insured and not willing to provide proof of insurance to you. At TX Wind and Solar, you are covered.
    
    
14. Are their any disadvantages of installing a solar system?
    Solar systems are fairly expensive and initial upfront costs can run over $25,000 dollars. Tax credits and rebates help total system costs, but you must be prepared to front these costs.
    
    
15. Why do we use an Enphase Microinverter on our traditional solar systems?
    Traditionally, in a solar system installation all the solar modules or panels are connected to only one centrally-located inverter that converts all of the DC current from the entire PV array into AC power. An Enphase Microinverter System allows each module to have its own inverter resulting in a higher rate of effieciency for the entire array.

Click Here to see Frequently Asked Questions about Hybrid Systems




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