Following are answers to frequently asked questions regarding Clean Power Resources, Inc and the solar industry. If you do not find the answer you are looking for, please email us at info@cleanpowerusa.com

• Does a solar system work in cold weather?
  Yes, it actually will work better because the cold temperatures cause an increase in the conductivity of metals. However, with the new inverters on the market, we can design a system for hot weather efficiency as well.
  
• Should I repair my roof before installation?
  Yes, if the roof is in disrepair or you are planning an upgrade in the near future, it would be beneficial to replace or repair it before installation. We will work hand in hand with your roofing contractor to design the most esthetically pleasing and highest power producing PV system possible. If your roof is in need of repair or replacement in the next five years or so, it is highly recommended that you replace or repair it as part of the solar installation project. To perform such work before solar is installed, removal of the PV system and reinstallation after the roof is complete would require unnecessary costs. Additionally, solar panels not only extend the life of many roofing materials and also provide an additional measure of insulation to your home from heat and cold. We will work hand-in-hand with your roofing contractor to design the most aesthetically pleasing and highest power-producing PV system possible.
  
• Will weather affect my solar system?
  Solar panels are tested to meet certain safety requirements such as impacts of hail, wind loads, and fire standards. Clean Power Resources will install your system to meet all engineering specifications and your local permit and planning department requirements.
  
• What maintenance is required?
  These systems require little to no maintenance. Since there are no mechanical parts to break or corrode like water solar systems, your electrical solar system is virtually maintenance free. Basically, make sure the modules are clear of bird droppings and dust. Clean your solar panels as needed (approximately twice per year) with water and a soft brush. Each time it rains, your job is done. Also, make sure the system is operating properly by monitoring the metering system from time to time. Other than that... There isn’t much else to do except calculate your savings each month!
  
• How can I maximize the power my solar system produces?
  It is imperative that your solar electric system is designed correctly and installed in the proper location in order to maximize your investment. A system placed facing the wrong direction or in a position that will be shaded part of the day will not produce enough power to make your investment worthwhile. Clean Power Resources, Inc. has the technology to determine where shade will affect performance anytime throughout the year. The experts at Clean Power Resources, Inc will provide you with the very best design for maximum production.
  
• How does solar electricity work?
  Silicon wafers laminated under non-reflective glass in solar panels collect photons from the sun and turn this into DC electrical power. This power then flows to an inverter which transforms it into usable voltage as AC electrical power. That power is then fed into your metered panel to provide you with your own generated power. Proper engineering and design will provide you with the right size system for your home so as to virtually eliminate your utility bill for electricity. Clean Power Resources has a great reputation for designing systems that meet each individual homeowners needs.
  
• What is the difference between a Grid-tied and a Grid-tied system with batteries?
  A Grid-tied photovoltaic system produces solar electricity during the day which at times should actually spin your utility meter backwards. A Grid-tied PV system with batteries provides the same benefits as the system without batteries but, this system will provide limited electricity if the grid fails. Since the battery back up system cannot produce power for everything in the home or business, a “critical load” panel is set up to provide emergency power to important circuits. An emergency generator with an automatic transfer switch can also be installed instead of or in combination with the battery back-up unit. In either case, they system will respond immediately to a power failure and provide alternative emergency power. The system provides enough electrical power to provide emergency lighting and minimal comforts during prolonged electrical outages.
  
• What are the economic benefits of a Solar Electrical System?
  A solar electrical system protects you from future rate increases and allows you to “fix or freeze” your utility rates for the next 30+ years. Systems are designed to lower---or in many cases eliminate--your monthly electric bill! The best part is that you are adding a significant value to your home, yet your property taxes will not increase because of the upgrade.
  
• How much do these solar power systems cost?
  It depends on your electrical usage and your service area. Residential systems can range from $15,000 to $100,000 but once you deduct your local utility company rebate plus federal and state tax credits, the cost could be lowered by as much as 70%. For example, in some cities, if you qualify for the maximum state and federal tax and have a generous rebate from the utility company a $40,000 system end up costing approximately $12,000. That may sound like a lot but it doesn't take long to pay it off if your bill is averaging $300-$400 per month. If you would like to find out what your cost and savings could be, call for a free site visit and quote. (See contact us links on this site.)
  
• How long do these systems last? What is the warranty on these systems?
  Photovoltaic systems have been around for over 55 years
  so far and the original systems are still working just fine.
  Yet the accelerated testing is giving us numbers like 40-42 years with a 2% per year decrease throughout the system's life. The limited warranty is 20-25 years on the solar modules, 15 years on the inverters and 10 years on support material and labor involved in the installation.
  
• What is the maintenance on these systems?
  These systems require little to no maintenance. Because there are no moving parts in a solar power system, there is nothing to go wrong. Basically, make sure the modules are clear of bird droppings and dirt and trees aren't shading the system. Also, make sure the system is putting out its proper power during the year by glancing at the metering system from time to time. Other than that... keep smiling every time you see the sun and knowing it is working for you all day long.
  
• How much roof area do these systems take?
  Approximately 100 square feet is needed for every kilowatt of PV power installed. A flat roof offers the flexibility of being able to direct the panels for optimum output or install them flat. However, if your roof line is variable as most homes are, it is important to only place your PV panels on southerly facing sections for proper power production. Solar power systems can be installed flush or tilt mounted and on ground mounted racks if you have the property. Some of the side benefits of roof mounted solar power systems are; it produces an insulation affect reducing air conditioning and heating needs which in turn lowers your utility bill.
  
• Does a solar electrical system have enough power to run all my major appliances?
  A solar electrical system is connected to your electrical main and is designed to offset all power usage within your home or building—this includes air conditioning and all major appliances! It does not directly support any individual energy consumer.
  
• What do I do next if I want to see about getting a system on my house or business?
  Call us, FAX us or email us for further information and options. We will follow up with a free evaluation and site visit.