Why should I choose Century Electric?
At Century Electric, L.L.C., we take pride in our ability to deliver the option of solar photovoltaics as an alternative energy resource to our customers. We wholeheartedly believe in this industry and the social, economic, and environmental benefits that follow its growth. As one of the few solar contractor firms within the Quad City area, we understand that this is a modern technology that is still unknown to a good portion of the general population. For this reason, we strive to provide our customers with the necessary information that will supplement their pursuit of this unique renewable resource in order to ensure a fair and practical experience. Call us today to receive a preliminary solar evaluation and system quote completely free of charge.
What happens to solar panels when it’s cloudy?
Even though clouds seem to minimize the amount of sunlight we receive, they hardly eliminate it altogether. Therefore, solar panels will continue to operate even in cloudy conditions but, due to the lower quality of light, the panels will operate less efficiently.
Do I need to worry about solar panels in snow?
Solar panels have an interesting ability to maintain themselves in snowy conditions. On a sunny day, even in winter, solar panels retain heat very well due to their structural design which will effectively clear snow from the surface of the system. You may help this process manually if desired, however, we always request that you proceed with caution and act responsibly around electricity
What happens when power goes out?
Unless there is battery backup to supplement your solar system, the system will shut down when the grid does. If the system continued to feed electricity into the grid during a black/brown out, it could endanger line-workers as they repair the grid.
Will the solar array put holes in my roof, or be too heavy?
When installing, we will have to penetrate the roof to anchor the solar system to the rafters within. We treat each penetration extensively providing a water tight seal, which we guarantee with every rooftop installation. A typical aluminum roof-mounted solar array weighs a little less than 5 lb/ft². For the standard framed roof, this will have no effect on its structural integrity.
Does my roof need to face directly south?
In order to achieve the maximum power output, the system will need to be oriented toward true south. However, this is not necessary. Solar systems will still generate copious amounts of electricity if oriented further east or west. Be aware that the greater the distance from true south that a system is oriented, the greater the system efficiency loss.
How will my utility bill be Affected with a solar system?
The utility bill will be drastically reduced. If the sun is shining, the loads that you require throughout your daily tasks will be powered from your solar system without interaction from the grid, as long as those loads don’t exceed the maximum system power output. All power used from your solar array is power that you didn’t have to purchase from the utility.
Why should I install a solar system on my home?
The utility bill will be drastically reduced. If the sun is shining, the loads that you require throughout your daily tasks will be powered from your solar system without interaction from the grid, as long as those loads don’t exceed the maximum system power output. All power used from your solar array is power that you didn’t have to purchase from the utility.
Why should I go solar now? Aren’t innovative technologies on the way?
The industry is rapidly evolving and improvements are being made. However, the new technology is still unproven. Also, the incentives available to solar customers will expire if not utilized within their predetermined time frame.