Solar panels absorb the sun’s energy throughout the day and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. Most homes and businesses run on alternating current (AC) electricity, so the DC electricity is then passed through an inverter to convert it to usable AC electricity. At that point, you either use the electricity in your house or send it back to the electric grid for a credit.

The amount of power your solar energy system can generate is dependent on sunlight. As a result, your solar panels will produce slightly less energy when the weather is cloudy, and of course, none when the sun is down. However, thanks to Net Metering, your system will send any excess energy it creates back to the electric grid in exchange for a credit, which you can redeem when you aren’t producing energy, like during the night or when your panels are covered in snow or ice. This whole process saves you money by reducing your energy bills.

Believe it or not, solar panels still function when they are covered in snow, albeit at a reduced capacity. In Ontario, our climate is such that combined with fewer daylight hours during the winter season, panels won’t produce enough electricity to power your home. However, don’t fret! This is completely normal, and your production during the summer should offset this via grid credits. As such, it is still possible to offset 100% of your energy consumption with solar panels.

Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. However, your property value will only increase if you own (rather than lease) your solar panel system. In most parts of Canada, a system will actually increase the value of your property more than a kitchen renovation.

If your solar panel system is connected to the grid, it will shut off in the event of a blackout. This is to prevent emergency responders and electricity utility repair personnel from being injured by your panels sending power back to the grid. However, certain inverters allow homeowners to create a closed-loop system during a blackout, or provide backup power paired with a battery. Ask us about these options!

If you own a home or property that has a pitched roof, your maintenance costs should be…zero! The system may require adjusting during the first year, which is completely covered by our comprehensive, 5-year workmanship warranty. The most common reasons for damage are human interaction, and critters such as squirrels or birds. Fortunately, Execon installs a proprietary critter guard system on every installation, included in the price. Our panels come with a 25-year warranty, and our inverter warranty is for 10 years. With proper maintenance, systems can last as long as 40 years!

Solar energy systems can last 25 to 40 years, and it can be costly to remove and reinstall them if you need to replace your roof. If your roof needs maintenance in the near term, you should complete it before you finish your solar installation. The Execon Roofing and Solar team is fully equipped to re-roof your home or business before installing solar panels.

After your system is grid-tied and commissioned, an Execon technician will help set up your energy monitoring system that will show in real-time what your system is producing 24/7/365. This app for your smart device will not only give you the reassurance that your system is functioning properly it will also allow you to become a solar advocate – by showing it to everyone you know!