General FAQ's
Could you really charge an electric car for free using solar energy?
If you have an electric car, or are considering one, being able to charge it for free, reducing your fuel costs and impact on the planet, is possibly the biggest benefit on offer. Planning to power a property and electric car with solar energy will require a larger solar PV system, so it’s worth mentioning this in the planning stages.
Do I need a South-facing roof for solar panels?
Solar panels work well on any roof facing South, SE or SW. Although solar panels will perform better and produce more electricity if they are South facing, they will still perform around 86% (compared to South facing) either facing due East or West.
How much roof space do I need for solar panels?
Solar panels can be fitted to your roof or on your land. With the choice of systems we have a PV system can be fitted to any roof size or type.
Is constant sunshine needed for solar panels to work?
No, solar panels work in all daylight conditions and work at their optimum at 10ºc. In fact, if it gets too hot they start to become increasingly inefficient.
Will they work on a cloudy day?
Solar panels still work well, albeit not at full capacity, on a cloudy day. Solar panels in hot sunny countries are bound to gather more energy, but don’t be fooled into thinking that they won’t work well in the UK. They don’t need constant direct sunlight to work and can still generate electricity when the weather is cloudy.
How do I compare different makes of solar panels?
Your panel choice will usually combine several factors including aesthetics, value for money, performance, track record and guarantees. Your SIG Roofing team and suppliers know the market and can advise you on the panels that will suit your needs.
What guarantees will my solar panels come with?
Solar panels will come with a manufacturer guarantee of the panels performance. Different manufacturers offer different guarantees. Your SIG solar team and suppliers can advise you on the panels that will suit your needs.
How long will my solar panels last for?
Solar PV systems have no moving parts apart from the inverter and as such have very long life spans. You should expect the panels to last for at least 25 years, a drop in performance is expected over this time but only a few %.
How long does it take to install solar panels?
Most domestic solar panel installations take no more than a day with minimum disruption. Typically, the scaffolding will be erected a couple of days before the solar PV installation team arrive. The installers will then mount the panels on the roof and install the inverter, finally carrying out the internal wiring.
Do solar panels need cleaning?
Solar panels are generally self-cleaning if positioned at an angle of over 15 degrees. However it is advised to visually inspect them annually and rinse if necessary. Most window-cleaning companies have a reach-and-wash system and should be able to clean your panels.
How do solar panels connect to the electrical supply in my home?
The electricity produced by solar panels is converted from DC (direct current) by the inverter to AC (alternating current), which all properties are run on. The electricity is then taken from the inverter via an AC cable to the distribution board, where it is used to power the circuits in the property.
With solar panels can I come off grid?
Solar PV panels alone will not give electricity 24 hours a day as they only produce electricity in daylight hours. You would need alternative energy sources or a battery system as well as Solar PV panels to be able to come off grid.
Will solar panels work when there is a power cut?
If there is a power cut your inverter will switch off, which stops any generation from your solar panels entering the property. This is a safety feature to protect workers who may be repairing the grid.
Do I need to change my electricity meter to an export meter if I have solar panels?
If you want to be paid for any the excess electricity you generate you will need to have a smart meter, most electricity suppliers are installing them free of charge for their customers if you don’t already have one.
How much could you save?
The key question we all ask when it comes to Solar Panels. At SIG Roofing, whether you’re a homeowner, an installer or a roofer, we’ve made it simple for you to find out.
Using our unique mapping tool, get a personalised estimate, see the panels on the roof of your choice and importantly, see how long it takes for a solar setup to pay for itself.
How many solar panels will my home need?
The more solar panels that are installed, the more energy they’ll be able to generate. The number of solar panels you’ll need will depend on your energy usage and the size of your property. The number required will be calculated from your energy bills and available space to install them.
How does solar benefit the environment?
It’s a great renewable source of energy, unlike fuels such as coal which has a finite supply, meaning it will eventually run out. Plus solar energy is environmentally friendly because it doesn’t generate green house gases. Renewable energy technologies will help you reduce your carbon footprint, meaning you’ll personally be doing your bit for the environment.
What is a solar battery?
More often that not, solar panels are generating more energy that can be used around the home at any one time. All the excess energy is then sent to the electricity grid, meaning that you’re losing out on energy being generated by your panels. By including a solar battery as part of your solar PV system, you can hold onto the unused energy to use during the night when your solar panels aren’t generating any energy.
How much do solar panels cost?
The cost of a solar panel system will vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels are needed, so it’s tough to give an exact price but on the whole, solar panels are around 70% cheaper than they were in 2010.
How much does the installation of solar panels cost?
In addition to the price of the solar panels, you’ll need to consider the installation too. The price of the installation will vary from installer to installer, so it’s a good idea to compare multiple quotes, which will give you the greatest chance of getting the best possible deal. By taking a few minutes to complete our online form, we will match your needs with installers in your area who will each be in touch to provide a free quote. You’ll get up to 3 free no-obligation quotes, which you can then compare to find the best installer for your solar PV installation.
Which manufacturer is making the best solar panels?
As the solar market has grown, the number of solar manufacturers has increased. This gives you great variety and choice but can also make your decision-making that bit harder. We sell solar panels from our tile suppliers of Marley / BMI / Wienerberger as an In Roof pitched solution but we also have OEM suppliers for In and On Roof and for flat and industrial roofs.
What’s the difference between solar PV and solar thermal?
Solar PV panels are used to generate electricity, whereas solar thermal – also known as a solar hot water system – is used to provide domestic hot water around the home.
What are bifacial solar panels?
Bifacial solar panels not only generate energy from the side facing the light but the back too, which makes them able to deliver your home with more energy than a conventional solar panel. These are most beneficial on flat or industrial roofs with a light coloured surface.
Is it worth investing in solar?
There’s no doubt about it; solar PV panels are the most popular type of renewable energy with homeowners. Over 500,000 UK homes already have solar PV panels and the numbers are continuing to grow. Solar panel costs have dropped dramatically, so there’s really never been a better time to invest. The benefits too are impossible to ignore: lower energy bills, a reduction in carbon emissions and potentially increase the value of your home.
Contact us
For more details on the range of solar solutions for your next project contact us on: [email protected]
