Surely you have seen and heard about solar systems, solar panels and other things powered by solar energy such as portable battery chargers, backpacks that have a solar panel integrated to charge a laptop, certain movable traffic warning signs as well as solar powered street lights. Most likely you have seen solar panels on rooftops, you may even have seen a ground-mounted solar system. Have you ever seen or thought about a solar panel awning or a solar canopy? You may wonder why you would mound solar panels on a canopy or awning, let’s look at why these types of solar systems would be of interest.

Solar systems can have all different sizes depending on the intended purpose. While rooftop or ground-mounted systems are designed to offset a family’s electricity usage a canopy or awning system can have the same or other purposes. Have you looked into going solar just to find out that your roof is not positioned ideally to fit enough solar panels on it to offset your annual electric usage, or maybe your roof is not solar friendly, maybe it has a lot of shading or a lot of small spaces rather than one big area.

Solar Panel Awnings and Solar Canopies Explained

Rooftops are the traditional way to install solar panels for homes, which is also why rooftop solar systems are usually the first thing people think of when they think of solar systems. However, there are several other spaces that can be utilized for solar. Here at Solartime USA we have installed several solar systems on rooftops, we have also used carports, awnings, canopies and gazebos to place solar systems or complete solar systems. Solartime USA has also built stand alone gazebos for customers that wanted to use the solar panels to heat their pool, in conjunction build a beautiful outdoor living space with seating, tables and maybe a grill that will heat their pool. Some build awnings or canopies to help add electricity to their existing system or they used the smaller system as sort of an entry system to going solar and plan to extend it at a later point.

We have customers that have a solar system installed already and look to add to their system because their family’s electric needs have changed, they may have had relatives move in and they now need to offset more electricity, but they have no room left on their roof. Maybe there is shading on the remaining roof or the positioning of the roof is not ideal for solar panels, this is where utilizing awnings, carports, canopies or even a stand-alone gazebo come into play and offer a great addition or alternative to traditional solar systems.

Solar Panel Awnings

Solar panel awnings can serve a dual purpose, they can help with providing shade to the side of your house that is too hot to use as an outdoor space around your house, often, especially here in Texas the sun beams at a side of your house during the day and makes that space unusable for outdoor activities, it also creates a challenge to keep your house cool. A solar panel awning is a great addition to your home, it can be a beautiful structure added to the side of your home that now shades the house from the sun, keeps the house itself cooler and provides an outdoor space that can be used for entertaining and family gathering and to make it even better the solar panel awning can produce plenty of solar power to help offset your electric needs.

Solar panel awnings or canopies can be a great addition to your home. They can easily add a fantastic looking outdoor living space, providing both shade and an aesthetically pleasing structure to your property, increasing your property’s value as well.

Solar Panel Canopies

Solartime USA has built some great looking solar canopies where the structure itself is made of great looking and sturdy wood posts with solar panels as roof, providing shade but still letting light through. Solar canopies can be placed anywhere you have room on your property, some solar canopies are also used to heat pools, or in addition to a solar system that may not have enough room on a roof. Some people also have extra buildings such as shops or guest houses that they want to have solar powered which is where you can see how versatile solar installations can be.

What are Solar Carports?

Since more people are purchasing electric powered cars, some may already have a solar system installed and decide to build a solar carport as a charging station for the electric car. Often carports provide a great space for additional solar panels, or as an integrated space for a complete solar system. Even people that don’t yet have a solar system can benefit from a carport with solar when they purchase an electric car, the solar system can provide the electricity needed to charge the car without adding additional cost to their energy costs.

Contact the Solartime Experts for Dallas Solar Installation 

When you are considering solar panel installation in Dallas, TX, either as a complete system or as a stand-alone for electric car charging or pool heating be sure to check with our experts here at Solartime USA. We have plenty of options available for you and the expertise to build and install your awning, canopy, car port or gazebo. Give us a call at (972) 675-7725 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation for Dallas solar installation.

Solar energy (or green energy) is a renewable energy source, such as wind and hydroelectricity. We’ll dive deeper into pros and cons of solar energy. As we all know, nothing is perfect. So no matter how great something is there may be at least a couple of not-so-great points about it – even if those points are just a matter of opinion. 

The most basic level of solar energy is (of course) energy from the sun – hence “solar” energy. Here in North Texas, we get an average 234 sunny days a year! What can we do with all that sun? Does it make sense to go solar? How do you use solar energy? How much will it cost? Is it difficult to “go solar” and how much effort will it take on my part?

With that in mind let’s discuss solar energy. Since you are reading this blog post, you obviously want to know more about solar energy, which is very exciting for us here at Solartime USA. We have a passion to help people understand solar, and we want to help you go solar as well. 

What are the Disadvantages of Solar Energy?

So, are there no disadvantages of solar energy? While there are many, many advantages to going solar, there are also some drawbacks of solar energy. Like with anything, no matter how great something is there are always downsides and it’s the same for solar energy and solar systems for your house.

Not All Roofs Are Created Equal

The space needed for a solar system is a disadvantage for some people. You do have to have an adequate roof, or space on your property for a ground mounted solar system. 

Shading can be a disadvantage as well, if you have too many shade trees and don’t want to trim them, it may not make sense to install a solar system. However, talking with one of our specialists may result in finding a solution around your roofing or space challenges.

Can Be Pricey Without Financing

One main concern for many people when considering whether to go solar or not is cost, and that could be seen as a disadvantage for some. Let’s dive into the cost issue a little deeper. 

While the cost of solar systems has come down drastically and continues to become more and more affordable, there is still some cost involved, of course. This is where it is important to deal with a local solar company that you can trust, like Solartime USA. 

We are knowledgeable about both Federal and potential local credits/rebates and will ensure you can take advantage of all the tax credits and rebates available for you. 

It is also important to realize that when you do go solar, you can control your energy costs. Solartime USA offers $0 down and financing options that allow you to keep your monthly payments about the same or less than your current electric bill. 

Materials to Make Solar Panels Are Not Always the Safest

There is some concern over the hazardous and toxic materials that go into solar system manufacturing. In the long run, the smaller carbon footprint outweighs the impact of solar manufacturing on the environment.

Solar energy is a clean energy, meaning there is no pollution involved in converting solar energy into usable electricity. It is also a renewable, natural, and clean resource. We will not run out of sunlight and it is always available at no cost to us. Pollution does not come from solar energy harvesting and use. 

Weather Based Intermittency

One main disadvantage is that you cannot use your solar system at night. When there’s no sun shining you can’t use solar energy. This should not necessarily deter you from going solar. 

You are still connected to the electric grid through your electric provider so you can use your electric company’s energy when solar energy is not available. Then during the day if you produce more electricity with your solar system than you use, you can send surplus energy back to the grid to receive credits for that energy and help ease the demand on the grid as well. 

Considering location as it relates to use of solar energy, the more sunny days the better. However, going solar is still a great choice, even in “wetter climates” where it rains more (and is more cloudy). We are in a good location here in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area for going solar as we can really benefit from all the sunshine. 

In trying to list the pros and cons of solar energy, the amount of sunny days in our area is certainly on the “pros” side. Other locations in the country and in the world are not quite as sunny as the Dallas-Ft. Worth is. However, even places that don’t get as much sun as we do can benefit from using solar energy. While bright sunshine allows solar panels to harvest the most solar energy, the sun’s rays can still be harvested on cloudy days. 

It Can Be Hard To Find Quality Installers

Once the installation process is underway, people might worry about what could go wrong. Solartime USA offers professional installation followed by a final inspection to make sure everything has been properly secured and configured. 

What are the Benefits of Solar Energy?

When weighing the pros and cons of solar energy, the benefits are substantial. Along with feeling great about doing something to improve the air quality for our planet, you also have economic advantages such as saving money on bills and increasing your property value.

Reduces Carbon Emissions For a Greener Planet

The benefits of solar energy to the environment is something that Solartime USA is proud to be a part of. With growing concern over global warming, it’s becoming more and more important to reduce our carbon footprint. Going solar helps reduce those carbon emissions that scientists believe to be contributing to climate change. 

Huge Impact On Your Electric Bill

While with some utility companies you see an increase to your electric bill, with solar your payments stay the same. You take control of your energy costs and you are no longer tied to rising energy costs – this leads to energy independence. 

Which leads to the next point, going solar can be a very simple process with the right local and honest solar company such as Solartime USA , the process is very simple. You simply give access to your annual electric usage graph, your address and our experts can draft up a proposal for you that we will then go over with you to find out your ideas, desires and energy needs for your home. All the paperwork and permitting will be taken care of by our experts, so essentially all you have to do is decide you want to go solar and we can take care of the rest. 

Increases Your Homes Value

Home buyers know that when they buy a home with a solar panel system already installed, they stand to save lots of money on electricity. For this reason, installing solar panels is like putting a pool in the backyard. It’s a positive feature that adds value to your home.

Protection Against Rising Electric Bills

As stated previously, one of the good things about solar energy as a source of electricity for your home is more independence. You won’t have to worry about spikes in your utility billing. Also with solar, you can sell your surplus energy for credits.

Low Maintenance Costs

With solar energy systems, you can expect little to no maintenance.  Just sit back and enjoy the savings.

What We Have Learned About Going Solar

So, in summary, there are more advantages than disadvantages to solar energy, and even the few disadvantages can easily be overcome and are minor.

All these are good points on the advantages column for solar energy. So how complicated is it to use all that beautiful sun to power your home? Is that where all the disadvantages to solar energy usage lies? 

Well, no, of course there is cost involved in going solar, and it can be confusing to think about going solar. However, our experts here at Solartime USA can make the process of going solar very easy for you. You can find out more from our Dallas solar experts here at Solartime USA with a free, no obligation consultation.

Contact the Solartime Experts for Dallas Solar Questions and Installation

Let us help you go solar, or at least figure out whether going solar is a good option for you. We are located right here in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area and have the expertise to secure all rebates, refunds and tax credits for you. Our professional installers are guaranteed to install a beautiful solar system for you. 

We handle the entire process for you, from finding the right financing, dealing with HOA, getting permits, arranging appointments with the electric company (to name a few).  All you have to do is decide to go solar and we’ll handle the rest. 

For professional installation of solar panels in Dallas, call (972) 675-7725 to set up an appointment. Or fill out the contact form.

So you are pondering the question of whether or not solar panels are worth it in Texas. After all, it’s a big investment and you want to make sure that your hard earned money is well spent. So, are solar panels worth it in Texas?

Solar panels are a long term investment, so it’s normal to weigh the pros and cons to determine whether or not they are worth it. One of the first questions many curious homeowners ask when they come to Solartime USA is how long will their new solar panels last. Will they last 2,5, 10 or even 15 to 20 years? That last estimate would get you excited, right? That would certainly make your investment well worth it. So how long do solar panels last? Below, we’ll delve into the lifespan of solar panels and how they degrade over time.

Average Lifetime of Solar Panels

We have fantastic news for you! Most solar panels have a 25-year warranty and, even better than that, 4 out of 5 panels are known to last well past their 25-year warranty. The long lifespan of solar panels makes investing in them here in North Texas even more attractive. In fact, there are not many other add-ons or appliances for your home as durable as solar panels. While there are a few solar panels that carry only a 10 or 15 year warranty, even those are likely to last well past the warranty end date and you always have the option to choose one of the many solar panels that do have the 25 year warranty. 

Solar Panel Degradation Rate

There is such a thing as a degradation rate for solar panels, which just means that as time goes on, your solar panels start to produce less energy. However, this should not happen before their warranty ends. Even then, it’s important to realize that, according to a study done by the National Laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy, the average solar panel energy output only falls by about .8% each year.

Standard Solar Panel Warranties

The standard warranty period for solar panels is 25 years and, during this time, the manufacturer guarantees that the solar panels will work at peak efficiency. The warranties that are attached to solar panels give buyers an expectancy of their solar panel lifespan based on how much it is expected to degrade each year. So, in essence, the warranty attached to a solar panel matches its life expectancy. 

What Types of Solar Panels Last the Longest?

Of course, as with so many products you purchase, quality makes a big difference. High-quality equipment solar panels can make a huge difference in the performance and longevity of your solar panels. 

Here are some of the solar panels that are known to be high quality:

• SunPower                             
• Q CELLS
• Canadian Solar
• JinkoSolar
• Trina Solar
• REC Solar
• LG
• Panasonic
• Silfab

Out of these solar panels, SunPower, LG, and Panasonic make the best solar panels in 2020 due to their high efficiency, competitive pricing, and the great 25-year warranty offered by each brand. These companies’ solar panels provide durability and reliability with premium protection and fair prices, making them the brands with the best solar panels available.

How to Make Your Solar Panels Last Longer

There are no moving parts involved in operating your solar system, which means there is nothing that will break down from wear and tear. The likelihood of your solar panels getting damaged by hail or other storms is slim to none, however,  solar panels do deteriorate slightly over time. Though they do experience some deterioration over time, our panels will continue to function very well and you most likely won’t even notice the slight decrease in production. But is there something you can do to make sure your solar panels last longer?

Have Solar Provider Come for Regular Checks

Just like you take your car in to get the oil changed in regular intervals, it’s a great idea to have your solar panel installer come on a routine schedule to check up on your solar system. Our experts here at Solartime USA perform an inspection of all connections between the main service and inverter as well as all connections between the solar panels and inverter. We also clean the inverter and perform an analysis of systems compliance with current building and fire code. A routine checkup like this can ensure that your solar system is running at peak performance.

Replace Central Inverters After 10 Years

It is important to point out that while your solar panels have a 25 year warranty and are expected to last well past that time, the average inverter warranty given to homeowners is about 10 years. The average inverter lasts 10-15 years which means you may have to replace your inverter at least once before your solar panel warranty ends. So you may want to consider investing in a warranty extension for your inverter. Another option is to invest in a micro inverter. A micro inverter is a new alternative to the common central inverters and they have a lifespan of about 25 years, which lines up with the lifespan of your solar panels. 

Keep Solar Panels Free from Debris and Other Materials

Some simple maintenance you can perform yourself is keeping your solar panels free from debris and other materials. When you first install your solar panels, your installer should be sure not to put your solar panels under large trees that cast shade or drop branches on top of the panels, so this shouldn’t be a huge concern in the beginning. There are some homeowners who also invest in solar panel critter guards to keep animals from damaging the panels.

Ready to Go Solar? We’re Here to Help!

Our solar consultants here at Solartime USA are specialists in their field. We have the expertise to offer you solar panels that we know will last the course of their warranty and beyond and the experience to back up our choices for you. Solartime USA has been a Dallas solar company for a little over four years, however, our parent company has been in the business of installing solar panels in Europe for well over 12 years. In that time we have helped over 21,000 families and businesses to go solar. 

Give us a call at (972) 675-7725 to schedule a free consultation and get a free quote or fill out the online contact form. We are happy to meet with you however you feel comfortable. We can meet virtually via Facetime or Zoom, we can meet over the phone, or we can even meet in your front yard to stay safe.

So much has changed over the last several months. To adjust to a new normal, we look to creative solutions to new challenges – especially the economic ones. 

Higher utility costs have families seeking ways to reduce expenses including how to save on the electric bill.

How Will Coronavirus Change Our Lives?

Due to the public health concerns of the current situation, most companies have decided to have their employees work remotely. 

This is a responsible way to handle the workforce as a preventative measure to protect people in our efforts to contain and isolate the spread of the virus. 

With schools, stores, restaurants, and offices closed, whole families spend entire days at home on their electronic devices. This means an increase in electricity bill costs.

Will The Coronavirus Epidemic Have An Impact On Higher Electricity Bills? 

These days working from home is the most reasonable accommodation an employer can offer to his or her employees. Thankfully, companies across the country are able to continue to work as usual – only the work location has changed. 

Some may love working from home and some may not, but the reality for everyone working full-time from home instead of at the workplace is higher energy consumption that leads to higher electricity bills. 

Because we spend more time in our homes, we consume more energy with the increased use of electric appliances, lights, cooling, or heating. 

On top of this, children are consuming more energy. Distance learning means that kids rely on information technology and the internet more than ever. Studying, working, or watching movies means heavy use of electronics such as laptops, computers, and handheld devices. This significantly contributes to an increase in energy costs.

Seeing a sharp increase in utility expenses causes families to look into how to save on electric bills.

How to Save Money on Energy Bills

Those who have their own solar system installed enjoy energy independence. Because they produce their own electricity, they don’t have to be concerned about higher electricity bills. This is particularly helpful now that families are at home more and consuming more energy.

Solar panel systems allow us to reap the benefits of the best renewable energy source – the sun. It’s one of the top ways to save money on energy bills.

Watch this fun video made by one of our customers! It shows how solar energy is a part of their everyday family life spent mostly at home and also how they save energy costs.

In these uncertain times, abrupt changes and restrictions have caused many goods to be in short supply. Rest assured that we have all the necessary tools and parts on hand to install your new solar energy system. 

We offer contactless consultations by phone or video. After the consultation is complete, we will design a system specifically for you. Our entire installation process is safe. There’s never been a better time to go green and save money on energy bills! 

For more information, call us at (972) 675-7725 or contact us online to schedule your appointment today!

Does homeowners insurance cover solar panels? This is a common question among prospective solar panel buyers, and if you yourself are looking into the solar panel market and are interested in installing panels to your home, you’ve likely had this question cross your mind. Luckily, we’re here to answer. 

The average cost of a 10KWh system is about $28K (before your 26% Federal Tax Credit), which is a hefty price tag for most homeowners. The cost of repairing or replacing damaged solar panels can add unwelcome financial strain for homeowners, so it’s only natural to worry about potential damage to your solar panels caused by hail or other weather conditions. You know that protecting your investment is important, but how do you go about insuring your solar panels? Don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate the waters of solar panel insurance.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

Good news! Solar panel insurance coverage is actually included in most homeowner’s insurance plans and policies. Most homeowners insurance policies cover the solar panels themselves and, because the rooftop mounts are considered a permanent structure on the house, they are also covered. If you find out that your insurance company doesn’t cover solar panels, it may be time to shop around for a new policy.

If you live in Texas or an area known for hailstorms, you might be wondering whether your current insurance policy will cover hail damage to your solar panels.

We can put your mind at ease for two reasons: most insurance policies do hail-damaged solar panels. The second reason you shouldn’t be too concerned is that solar panels are actually extremely durable and difficult to dent or break. Solar panels are very sturdy, and the likelihood of them getting damaged during a storm by hail falling from the sky is slim to none.  

The news a day after a hail storm hits will likely show an endless cycle of situations where hail knocked out car windows, house windows, damaged roofs – but believe it or not, solar panels are often left completely intact.  In fact, when Solartime USA gets called to remove the solar panels from a hail-damaged roof while the roof is being replaced, the panels usually end up being unharmed and reinstalled later. You can rest easy knowing that this prized addition to your house is safe and covered by homeowners insurance in the event they do get damaged in a storm. Solartime USA’s solar panels are monitored 24/7 so chances are we would most likely know of any damage to your panels before you are even aware. Our solar panels also come with a 25 year warranty on the off chance anything does damage your panels. 

While your solar panels are probably covered by your homeowners insurance for damages related to hail, most insurance plans won’t cover a defective inverter that has stopped working. Luckily, the inverters and solar panels are covered by manufacturer’s warranties, which will take care of repairing or exchanging your inverter in case of malfunction. So, now that you know that your solar panels are most likely covered by homeowner’s insurance, you’re probably wondering whether this will drive up your premiums.

Do Solar Panels Increase Home Insurance Premiums?

It’s important to check with your homeowners insurance policy but, generally speaking, your premium shouldn’t go up after installing solar panels. If you end up getting a ground mount or installing your solar panels on a car port or other structure, your policy may increase. Depending on the size of your solar system, you may need to increase your policy limits; however, the increase is usually minimal. In fact, Solartime USA’s customers with ground mounts have reported that their homeowners insurance only increased between $3 and $5 a month!

Because we are local to the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, our knowledgeable Solartime USA consultants can give you more detailed information about solar panel insurance coverage in the area. Once you are ready to install your solar panels, we will check with your insurance company and provide the necessary paperwork to add them to your policy. However, it’s always a good idea to inquire with your insurance company ahead of time. 

Solartime USA is your One-Stop-Shop for Solar Panels

The professionals at Solartime USA are happy to assist you with the entire solar system process, from the original free quote and personal design, to coordinating the entire process with all trade professionals, inspectors, electric companies, to getting all your permits. Solartime USA is your complete “one-stop-shop” for solar panels. We are a family owned and operated company serving Dallas/Ft Worth with the ability to service your solar panel purchase from beginning to end and well beyond. We aim to have you become part of our Solartime USA family. Give us a call at (972) 675-7725 or fill out the contact from and we will call you within 24 hours to set up an appointment that is convenient for you.

If you currently have solar panels installed on your home or business or are considering investing in a solar power system, it is worthwhile to consider adding a home energy storage system as well. There are multiple benefits to having both a solar system and an energy storage system in use. Depending on where you live or work, one of the main perks of having your own energy storage system is avoiding disruptions in service during a natural disaster or storm. Using a combination of solar panels and an energy storage system also provides protection against electricity prices, which continue to rise.