Will Solar Panels Produce Electricity on a Cloudy Day?

Yes! Contrary to popular belief, solar panels can still generate electricity even in cloudy weather. While direct sunlight produces the highest electricity output, solar panels can still generate a significant amount of power on overcast days.

Will Solar Panels Work during Winter Months?

Yes! Solar panels work based on the amount of daylight rather than heat, meaning they can produce electricity even in cooler temperatures.

Is a South-facing Roof necessary for Solar Panels?

No. While a south-facing roof is not absolutely necessary for installing solar panels, it is generally considered the most ideal orientation for maximising solar energy production. South-facing roofs receive the most sunlight throughout the day which allows solar panels to capture the maximum amount of solar radiation. However, solar panels can still be installed on roofs facing other directions and can generate a significant amount of electricity. Panels facing east or west perform at around 86% compared to south facing. The exact impact will depend on factors such as the angle of the roof, shading from nearby objects, and the specific solar panel technology used. To determine the feasibility of installing solar panels on a non-south-facing roof, it is advisable to consult with a solar energy professional or installer who can assess your specific situation and provide accurate recommendations.

Can Solar Panels Provide Electricity Continuously for 24 Hours a Day?

No. Solar panels require sunlight to convert into usable energy. They generate the highest amount of electricity around midday when the sun is at its highest point in the sky. During nighttime, solar panels do not generate electricity because there is no sunlight available. To have a supply of electricity during the night, solar panels need to be combined with energy storage systems such as batteries. These batteries can store excess electricity generated during the day and release it during nighttime or when there is less sunlight available. By integrating storage systems, it is possible to have a more reliable supply of electricity from solar panels and reduce your reliance on the grid.

What Amount of Roof Area is required for Installing Solar Panels?

The typical recommendation is at least an 8-panel Solar PV system, which can conveniently fit on the roof of an average 3-bedroom semi-detached house. However, some panels produce a greater amount of energy per square meter and other panel varieties, allowing you to generate ample electricity even with a smaller roof space.

How Long do Solar Panels Last?

Solar panels are designed to be durable and long-lasting. They contain no moving parts apart from the inverter, which reduces the likelihood of mechanical failure or wear and tear. The inverter should last around 10 years and is replaceable. The average lifespan of solar panels is around 25 to 30 years, although many systems continue to operate efficiently beyond that timeframe. Additionally, most solar panel manufacturers provide warranties of 20 years or more, ensuring the performance and durability of the panels.

Do Solar Panels require Maintenance?

Solar panels are relatively low maintenance. Occasional cleaning to remove dust, debris, or bird droppings is recommended to optimise their performance. Window cleaning companies often have the correct equipment to clean your panels for you. Solar panels are designed to be weather-resistant, so they can withstand rain and snow. It is advised to have a professional inspection every few years to ensure the system is functioning optimally.

Do Solar Panels Work when there is a Power Cut?

Your inverter will switch off if there is a power cut. This safety feature ensures that the panels do not continue to generate electricity that could potentially harm utility workers trying to restore power. However, it is possible to have a backup power system in place by incorporating a battery storage system into the solar panel setup. The excess electricity generated by the solar panels can be stored in the batteries, which can then be used to power essential appliances or the entire home when the grid is down.

Published on Monday July 17, 2023

Author: AW Electrics

Unveiling UK Solar Panels: Debunking Home Suitability Myths

Solar panels can be installed on various types of homes in the UK, however, there are myths around which properties are suitable and which ones aren’t.

At AW Electrics we want to dispel these myths to make it clear that solar panels can be a practical and beneficial option for many UK homes, contributing to renewable energy generation and potentially reducing energy costs.

Myth Busting UK Home Solar Panel
Suitability FAQ’s

Here are some popular myths about solar panels, and the corresponding reality:

Myth 1 – The UK doesn’t get Enough Sunlight for Solar Panels to Be Effective.

Reality: While it’s true that the UK has less sunlight compared to some sunnier regions, solar panels can still generate a significant amount of electricity. The UK receives enough daylight throughout the year to make solar panels a viable renewable energy option. Solar panels can generate electricity even on cloudy or overcast days, although their output may be slightly lower compared to clear sunny days.

Myth 2 – Solar Panels require a South-Facing Roof to Be Effective.

Reality: South-facing roofs are considered ideal for solar panel installations because they receive the most sunlight. However, east, and west-facing roofs can also be suitable, and advancements in solar panel technology have made them more efficient at capturing sunlight from different angles. Additionally, the pitch of the roof and the absence of shading are also important factors in maximising solar panel performance.

Myth 3 – You Need a Large Roof to Consider Solar Panels.

Reality: The size of your roof is not the sole determining factor for the feasibility of solar panels. While having a larger roof can accommodate more solar panels and potentially generate more electricity, solar panels can be installed on roofs of various sizes. A rough guideline is that you will need around 20 square meters of available roof space for a typical residential installation, which isn’t much bigger than a large car!

Myth 4 – My Roof is in the Shade, therefore is Not Appropriate.

Reality: It may be that your roof is not in full shade at all times of the day. Partial shading or intermittent shading may not rule out the possibility of installing solar panels. There may be options to maximise sunlight exposure to your panels such as trimming or removing nearby trees and vegetation. At AW Electrics we can visit your home to assess your specific shading conditions and provide tailored advice based on your situation.

Myth 5 – Flat Roofs aren’t Suitable.

Reality: While flat roofs may require some additional/ more frequent attention compared to sloped roofs, they can still effectively harness solar energy. The main consideration is regular inspection and cleaning to optimise performance by removing surface debris, dirt, or moss that can obstruct sunlight. Solar panels can also be mounted with a tilt or angle to maximise sunlight exposure if necessary.

Myth 6 – I don’t have any Loft Space for an Inverter.

Reality: The location of the inverter in a solar panel system does not need to be in a loft space. Inverters can usually be installed in other suitable locations, such as garages, cupboards, and utility rooms. It’s important to consult with a professional solar installer to assess your specific situation and determine the most appropriate location for the inverter based on your available space, electrical requirements, and safety considerations. At AW Electrics we provide guidance on the best solution to suit your needs.

Still Have More Questions?

Are you considering solar panels, but still unsure if your property is suitable?

Call AW Electrics today on 01142 134 610 to speak to a member of our knowledgeable, enthusiastic team and arrange an appraisal or click here to send us your question..

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Unveiling UK Solar Panels: Debunking Home Suitability Myths

Myth Busting UK Home Solar Panel
Suitability FAQ’s

Myth 1 – The UK doesn’t get Enough Sunlight for Solar Panels to Be Effective.

Myth 2 – Solar Panels require a South-Facing Roof to Be Effective.

Myth 3 – You Need a Large Roof to Consider Solar Panels.

Myth 4 – My Roof is in the Shade, therefore is Not Appropriate.

Myth 5 – Flat Roofs aren’t Suitable.

Myth 6 – I don’t have any Loft Space for an Inverter.

Still Have More Questions?

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Unveiling UK Solar Panels: Debunking Home Suitability Myths

Myth Busting UK Home Solar Panel Suitability FAQ’s

Myth 1 – The UK doesn’t get Enough Sunlight for Solar Panels to Be Effective.

Myth 2 – Solar Panels require a South-Facing Roof to Be Effective.

Myth 3 – You Need a Large Roof to Consider Solar Panels.

Myth 4 – My Roof is in the Shade, therefore is Not Appropriate.

Myth 5 – Flat Roofs aren’t Suitable.

Myth 6 – I don’t have any Loft Space for an Inverter.

Still Have More Questions?

Search

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Archive

Myth Busting UK Home Solar Panel
Suitability FAQ’s