Should my Solar System Face a Specific Direction?
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
1y ago
It is common knowledge that in the US, rooftop solar panels perform best when they are positioned toward the south. In the Northern Hemisphere, solar panels facing south will provide the most significant amount of electricity. Given that the United States is in the northern hemisphere, it is best for households to install solar panels facing south. In some circumstances, however, that might not be a choice. You might need to install your solar panels on a different part of your roof if your house is surrounded by trees or if the south side of your house is highly shaded by mountains or other o ..read more
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Inflation Reduction Act Brings Back The 30% ITC Solar Tax Credit for Another 10 Years
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
1y ago
On Tuesday, August 16th, 2022, President Biden officially signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. According to a summary by Senate Democrats, the plan, which was approved by the Senate earlier this month and the House of Representatives last week, has an estimated cost of $437 billion, $369 billion of which will be used to fund investments in "Energy Security and Climate Change." "The bill I'm about to sign is not just about today, it's about tomorrow, it’s about delivering progress and prosperity to American families." -U.S. President Joseph Biden Solar Investment Tax Credit A tax credit ..read more
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The US Solar Industry Now
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
1y ago
For quite a long time, the American solar panel industry has been dependent on imports from countries in Southern Asia. Recently, the supply and availability of solar panels and products have significantly decreased, according to research by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SIEA) into the effects of tariffs on all imported solar panels and products. While these tariffs benefit US Solar Manufacturers, the demand for solar installation in the US continues to exceed supply. New Investments In order to promote innovation in domestic solar manufacturing and recycling, the Biden-Harris Admin ..read more
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A Guide to Cleaning Your Solar Panels Safely
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
1y ago
For the best solar energy production, solar panels need to be exposed to as much sunlight as possible. Dust and dirt can decrease the amount of light that the panels receive, which would reduce their effectiveness and dependability. Therefore, users of residential solar should understand how to maintain their solar panels. Read on for a short tutorial on how to clean solar panels safely. Essentials for Safety & Cleaning To maintain your solar panels without harming them, you'll need non-abrasive, and non-corrosive cleaning materials as well as other tools listed below: An extension ladder ..read more
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4 Ways to Reduce Costs When Going Solar
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
1y ago
 Going solar generally necessitates a sizable initial expense. Even though the upfront expense would be more than compensated by years of energy bill savings, some homeowners may feel intimidated and decide not to make the investment. Why Do Solar Panels Cost So Much? Solar panels are expensive because of how they are made and installed. Modules are made from a variety of materials, silicon being one of them. Despite being a frequently used chemical, getting silicon in its purest form requires precise technology, which raises the cost of making solar panels. In addition, batteries and inverte ..read more
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The 120% Rule
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
1y ago
Homeowners planning to install solar PV systems frequently ask, "What is the 120% rule?" To carry out its purpose of safeguarding life and property from electric risks, the NEC (National Electrical Code) has established various chapters, including the 120 % rule. The Main Service Panel (MSP) of your home receives electricity from your new solar power system. MSP’s have a predetermined capacity that is measured in amps. It is crucial to make sure the additional current from the newly installed solar doesn't overload the MSP's capacity as a safety precaution. This crucial regulatory principle kn ..read more
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Are There Specific Roof Types Better Suited for Solar Installation?
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
2y ago
Installing solar panels requires a solar racking system, which secures solar panels and inverters to a variety of surfaces including roofs. The equipment is built to be easily installed onto most existing rooftops, however, there are a few roofing types that might require retrofit. The common roof types that are most appropriate for solar panel installation are outlined below. In addition to roof type, quality and condition should also be considered. Because most solar panels have a lifespan of 25-30 years or more, they must be installed on a roof that can last at least that long. Before going ..read more
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Can Your Roof Handle the Weight of Residential Solar Panels?
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
2y ago
If you live in an older home and haven't had your roof inspected recently, you may be wondering if your roof is capable of supporting the weight of a solar system. This is a perfectly reasonable thing to ask. You may also be interested in learning just how much weight a typical solar array will add to your roof and how much space they will require. Solar panels vary in sizes and weights depending on the manufacturer, however, most panels sold in consumer markets have comparable proportions. Read on to discover how much a typical residential panel weighs compared to a commercial sized panel, an ..read more
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The Advantages of Solar Energy You May Not be Thinking About
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
2y ago
These days it is pretty common to see solar panels on the rooftops of homes throughout the country. People who have a system installed are pleased about their decision and are enjoying the benefits. Those who have not yet made the move to using renewable energy, may be wondering - are solar panels worth it? There are many things to consider before deciding whether to add solar to your home.  Let's start with the most important question for anyone thinking about switching to solar energy: "What are the benefits of going solar?" Solar power has been known to save people money on electricity ..read more
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Federal Solar Tax Credits Available—What You Need to Know
DIY Solar Power Blog
by Elizabeth Bollefer
2y ago
Households who choose to install residential solar panels may be eligible for federal and state incentives. Solar Tax Credit Explained A tax credit is a one-to-one decrease in the amount of income tax you would typically have to pay. A $1,000 federal tax credit, for example, lowers your federal income tax liability by $1,000. The federal tax credit is commonly referred to as an Investment Tax Credit, or ITC, although it is not the same as the ITC available to firms that own solar panels. The Federal solar tax credit can be claimed on federal income taxes for a percentage of the cost of a solar ..read more
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