Investing in Renewable Energy is a Great Choice.

Thousands of homeowners are making the switch to solar energy and experiencing the positive benefits. Whether you’re looking to reduce your electric bill, help the environment, or create a better future for your family, you can do all three with West Coast Solar. We want to help you make the best solar system decisions possible, so we answer some common solar questions.

Benefits of Working with
West Coast Solar

• We’re Northern California’s trusted solar experts
• We’re working toward the same goal of being eco-friendly
• We’ll customize your solar power design to meet your needs and specifications
• Our unwavering dedication to our clients
• We provide thorough roof inspections to enhance our guarantee
• We genuinely love what we do
• Our technicians handle the entire installation — no subcontractors
• We provide a range of full-service solar solutions
• Easy installation process
• We offer great financing and warranty options

A Safe, High-Return Investment

Many California solar systems have a return on investment that rivals traditional investments. This is because of the substantial cost savings from going solar. The solar equipment we install exceeds traditional investments in that the initial investment is typically paying for itself within ten years, and then the following 15-20 years are at a profit.

What is the estimated return on investment when it comes to a home solar power system? Our team usually starts with your current electricity bill: What if it disappeared? After your initial investment pays for itself, you can see significantly reduced, eliminated, or even credited electric bills. If you look at any moderate to long-term investment, solar power is near the top of the list when it comes to homeownership.

What are the benefits of utilizing solar energy?

If you install a solar power system on your property, you will reduce or eliminate your electricity bill, and you protect your bank account from the rising energy costs. You can save money, but it will depend on your solar system, your local electricity rates, and solar policies. Going green and utilizing solar energy is a smart investment no matter where you live.

How does solar energy affect the environment?

Solar energy has many positive environmental benefits. Similar to other renewable energy sources, solar power use reduces carbon-emission significantly, which helps reverse climate change. It’s called clean energy because the installation, and operation of solar components results in significantly fewer pollutants in the air.

The quickest way to find out how much you currently pay for your electricity each month is to take a look at your electricity bill. You can also call your utility service provider and request the information, too.

How will a solar system impact my property value?

A home with a solar power system installed will typically sell for more than an equivalent home without solar installed. If you own your home, installing solar power is a smart investment, not only for your energy bill but for the value of your property.

What Are The Environmental Benefits of Installing Solar Panels?

The environmental benefits of installing solar panels on your Northern California home or business are tremendous. Solar is the most abundant and affordable renewable energy resource that can dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reduce your carbon footprint. Not only that, unlike fossil fuels, solar doesn’t harm the environment when harnessing its energy. That said, coal and natural gas release carbon dioxide that contributes to air pollution, where solar does not. Because solar doesn’t contribute to smog and pollution, it can actually help improve the quality of the air we breathe, which can reduce health care costs and improve our quality of life. 

How does a solar photovoltaic

(PV) panel work?

Solar panels collect the sun’s rays and convert it into direct current (DC). Your home uses alternating current (AC), so as the DC energy transfers from your solar panels to your electrical unit, it will pass through an inverter, changing the power from DC to AC.

Do solar panels produce energy when the sun isn’t out?

If the weather is cloudy, your solar panels will produce slightly less energy as a result. The amount of power your panels produce is reliant on sunlight. However, you are able to purchase battery banks to store energy for later use. Installing a solar power system is a smart move regardless of where you live.

Do solar panels allow off-grid living?

Yes. Solar power systems, including battery banks, allow for off-grid living. Although an off-grid system does cost significantly more to install, it is an option for those looking to completely disconnect from the traditional energy grid.

Will I stop receiving an electricity bill if I install solar panels?

Unless you go off-grid with your energy use, you will still receive your regular energy bill, even if the energy company is reporting you owe $0 or they owe you a credit. You can dramatically reduce your energy bill with a solar power system.

What will solar system maintenance cost?

A solar power system typically has a lifespan of between 20-30 years. The maintenance cost is low if anything at all. Unless your system takes damage, or you pay someone to clean the panels after a snowstorm or otherwise, you won’t have to worry maintenance costs.

Are Solar Panels Easy to Maintain?

Maintaining your solar panels year-round is relatively simple! A good rule of thumb is to inspect your panels seasonally to determine if maintenance is needed. Check for damage, obstructions, or debris buildup. Generally speaking, you can use a garden hose to rinse your panels of debris like pollen, dust, ash from wildfires, and leaves. If you live in an area that gets snow, you’ll want to carefully clear snow and ice covering your solar array. Just make sure to use the proper safety equipment to keep you and others safe, and avoid using abrasive tools or harsh chemicals. When spring rolls around, this is a great time to schedule a solar panel inspection to ensure the optimal function and integrity of your solar panels. 

How Do I Clean My Solar Panels?

Cleaning your solar panels is simple enough, but the most important thing to keep in mind is your safety! First, check your owner’s manual for warnings and cleaning recommendations. You can also contact your friends at West Coast Solar to see what we recommend for your specific solar panel system. 

Once you’re ready to clean your panels, make safety a priority! Use a safety harness, wear a helmet, watch your footing, and always have someone to spot you when cleaning off rooftop panels. To clean your panels, all you need is some warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Never use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaning tools like scrubbers and brushes, or powerwashers. All of these items can damage the panels and interfere with their ability to function as they should.

What Happens to Solar Power During a Blackout?

In most cases, your solar power system will be shut off. This ensures the power company’s technicians are not injured due to your system sending energy back to the grid. However, if you have a battery bank installed in your home, you can use stored energy until the power comes back on or you run out.

What Are The Advantages of Rooftop Solar Panels?

Installing rooftop solar panels may actually benefit the structure and longevity of your roof. Solar panels can help protect your roof from the elements such as rain, snow, and other debris, which can reduce roof repair costs. Not only that, solar panels capture the sunlight that would normally hit your bare roof. As it does this, your solar panel array can work to shield your shingles from UV rays, thereby extending the life of your roof. In addition to safeguarding your shingles from the elements and UV rays that cause degradation, your solar panels provide shade on your roof while absorbing the heat that the sun produces. This can work to cool your home during the hot summer months so you don’t have to run your air conditioner as frequently, which cuts down on energy costs.

Schedule A Free Consultation

The entire West Coast Solar team is excited to help you optimize your energy potential. Connect with us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and learn more about a home solar panel system or a commercial solar panel installation. We look forward to hearing from you!