When it comes to installing a new solar system, most homeowners only think about the actual solar panels. But did you know that there are a number of enhancements that can further optimize your solar installation investment? Your solar provider may offer various add-ons, like critter guards or even edge skirts. But do these add value? Are they worth the additional cost?
Here is a review of some of the most common solar enhancements. This can help you determine if they add benefits to your home solar system.
Critter Guards
SunPower® solar panels are mounted on your home’s rooftop in a way that leaves a small space underneath each panel. This enables any debris that collects from wind, rain, and snow to roll off the roof. However, in some cases, this space can become an attractive shelter for small animals.
For areas with large bird populations, netting can be used to prevent them from nesting underneath your solar panels. Critter guards can also protect the system’s wires from being chewed or damaged by small rodents such as squirrels or rats. These guards are strips of metal screening secured to the outside of the solar panels. The edging creates a barrier that prevents small animals from entering the spaces surrounding your system. In some locations, there are few major disturbances from birds and other small animals looking for a safe haven. But if this is an issue you think you might experience, your local SunPower dealer will be able to discuss the options with you.
Edge Skirts
SunPower solar panels are known for their curb appeal. That sleek aesthetic goes beyond the solar array when front edge skirts are part of the installation. By obscuring the mounting hardware, edge skirts help the panels seamlessly blend into your roof. While they aren’t a necessity, edge skirts are perfect for the homeowner who wants a completely finished look.
EV Chargers
Having an EV charger at home is incredibly convenient for electric vehicle owners. First, there’s no need for electric vehicle (EV) drivers to search for public charging. Secondly, an EV typically takes from one to a few hours to charge each day for a local commute. That’s time that can be well spent if the EV is charging in a place that accommodates the lifestyle of its owner.
Approximately 40% of electric vehicle owners also own a solar system. While it is a sustainable choice, it’s an important economic one as well. Electric vehicles require a large amount of power to charge. A solar energy system can help make up the deficit by providing clean energy to homeowners — with no surge in their utility bills.
Sea Bright offers homeowners the opportunity to install an EV charger during their solar installation. This gives homeowners access to premium, eco-friendly products with the ease of one seamless installation experience. We can discuss the possibilities during our consultation.
Solar Batteries
Solar batteries are rising in popularity as homeowners want to protect their homes and families from power outages. According to SunPower’s Energy Sense Index, two out of five homeowners worry about power outages every month of the year.
SunPower’s SunVault™ storage system has the capability to ease blackout anxiety. Based on system size, design, and the customer’s needs, SunVault can be used as a reliable backup energy source that powers part of the whole home. Homeowners no longer need to sacrifice comfort and safety when unexpected outages occur. With batteries, they can keep the power on for necessary appliances like refrigeration and HVAC. And with the right engineering, you may also be able to charge the electric vehicle or complete a load of laundry.
But solar batteries can provide more than just peace of mind; they may help homeowners save on their utility bills. Depending on how homeowners prefer to use their storage system, solar batteries can be put to use during peak demand times when utility rates are often higher. This can help reduce costs by reducing those additional charges. Because of this, highly intelligent solar storage systems like SunVault are a great investment for homeowners with a SunPower solar system.
The right solar system enhancements can help homeowners save money, prevent common issues from arising, and raise home aesthetics. Better yet, many of these options are affordable and easy to integrate. For further details, reach out to us via a FREE Quote.
1 The ability to provide electricity during an outage will vary based on the amount of energy stored in the battery, wattage, duration of use of devices and appliances connected to the system, the battery’s ability to recharge during daylight hours, and other factors. Additional hardware may be required to power your HVAC system. Storage systems should not be relied upon as a power source for critical medical devices.
