There are several important components that go into most solar panel setups that are used today, and many clients who utilize these products like to understand some of the simple basics on how they work. One great example here is the inverter - what exactly is this component, which different types are found in today's solar panels, and what should you be thinking about with regard to an inverter if you're having solar panels installed on your home or building?

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer a wide range of residential and commercial solar panel installation services to clients around SLC, Utah and Boise, Idaho. Here are some basics on what solar inverters do, their common types, and some important considerations within this area for any new solar client.

Solar Inverter Basics

For those who are just learning about solar power, it's important to understand the basic functionality of the entire system when discussing the inverter. Your solar panels are built to absorb sunlight and transform it into DC power, or direct current. However, most standard homes today actually use AC power, or alternating current - this is where the inverter comes in.

The main purpose of an inverter is to convert the DC power produced by solar panels into usable AC power for your home or building. This allows you to use the energy generated by your solar panels for appliances and electrical systems throughout the property. Inverters also regulate the amount of power flowing from your solar panels to prevent damage or overloading.

In layman's terms, think of the inverter as the bridge between your solar panels and your home's electrical systems. It takes the energy from the panels and transforms it into a usable form, making solar power a viable option for powering homes and buildings.

Types of Solar Inverters

There are three main types of inverters commonly found in residential and commercial solar panel setups:

  1. String Inverters: The original inverter type invented for solar panels, these are connected to a string of panels and convert their combined DC power into AC power. This string of panels is found at a centralized location, usually installed somewhere easily accessible on the property so they can be serviced without trouble. These are the cheapest option but may not be the most efficient - and they may require more maintenance over time.
  2. Microinverters: These are individual inverters that are installed on each solar panel, unlike string inverters which handle a whole string at once. They help keep efficiency high by ensuring each panel operates independently - if one panel underperforms, it won't affect the rest of the system's output. These are usually more expensive and may require additional maintenance, but they offer better efficiency.
  3. Power Optimizers: These are similar to microinverters in that they're installed on individual panels, but their purpose is slightly different. They optimize power output for each solar panel, then send the DC power to a centralized string inverter for conversion to AC power. This option offers high efficiency and some flexibility with panel placement, but they can be more expensive than string inverters.

Important Inverter Considerations

When choosing an inverter for your solar panel setup, there are a few key factors to consider:

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, our team is well-versed in all types of solar inverters and can help you choose the best option for your specific needs and budget. We also offer regular maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly. Don't hesitate to contact us with any questions or to schedule a consultation for your residential or commercial solar panel installation project, whether you're in SLC, Utah or Boise, Idaho.

There are a few common reasons why homeowners often look to make the switch to solar power as their primary power source in the home, from sustainability priorities to cost efficiency factors, and one great example in this latter category is high electrical bills. Homes that use lots of power on a regular basis can benefit in especially large ways from the switch to solar - but what are some of the reasons why your bills might be high in the first place, prompting such a change?

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer a wide range of commercial and residential solar power installation and related services to clients around SLC, Utah and Boise, Idaho. We help clients assess all their energy and power needs within the home, plus advise on how our solar panels will be able to meet your needs in a more sustainable way. Here are some of the most common causes we see for high electric bills when clients come to us looking for solutions, plus the value of a solar power system for offsetting these needs.

Common Reasons for High Electric Bills

There are several major factors that may be causing your energy bills to skyrocket, including the following:

The Power of Solar for Offsetting High Electric Bills

All of these reasons play a role in high electric bills - but how can solar power help with them? For starters, solar systems can help reduce the amount of electricity needed to power a home. By using energy from the sun, solar panels can generate their own electricity to meet a portion or all of a home's energy needs.

Additionally, if your state offers net metering programs, you may be able to receive credits for excess energy produced by your solar system that is sent back to the grid. This can help offset electric bills even further, potentially resulting in zero monthly costs for energy. Furthermore, solar panels are more efficient and cost-effective than ever before, making them a viable option for homeowners looking to save on their energy bills.

Other Tips for Lowering Electric Consumption

Now, even if you install a solar power system, there are still measures you can take to help lower your electric consumption and reduce your energy usage even further. These include:

Switching to solar power can help homeowners reduce their monthly electric bills significantly, while also promoting sustainability and reducing carbon footprints. Contact us at Intermountain Wind & Solar to learn more about how we can help you make a smooth transition to solar power for your home or business, whether you're in SLC, Utah, Boise, Idaho or any nearby area of either state.

If you're set to have solar panels installed on your home or building in the upcoming days, weeks or months, the actual day of installation itself is one you may be eagerly anticipating. It's also one where some basic preparations should be considered, ensuring that your space and everyone who spends time in it are ready for the big day. 

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer a wide range of solar panel installation services to clients around Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho, bringing quality solar power to numerous homes and businesses alike. Here are some basics on how to prepare your home or building and its occupants for the day of solar panel installation, plus some essential tips on what will happen that day and how to be ready for it. 

General Roof Check and Prep

At least a day or two ahead of time, take a walk around your property and do a visual inspection of your roof. If you notice any loose or missing shingles, have them fixed beforehand. This will save time and make it easier for the installation team to start work on the solar panel system right away.

If you're planning on having a new roof installed, be sure to do this before the solar panels are put in place. If there is any necessary roof maintenance that needs to be done, take care of it before installation day. 

There also may be certain preparations that need to be done depending on other elements of your roof. If a satellite dish or other equipment is in the way, contact your installation company to discuss having it moved beforehand. 

Indoor Preparations

On the day of solar panel installation, make sure that all rooms and areas are accessible to the installers. If there are any pets, be sure to keep them contained in a safe space away from the work area. Ensure that any valuables or breakable items are moved out of the way to prevent any accidents. 

Prepare Occupants for Noise and Disruption

Whether it's a home or a business, solar panel installation can be quite noisy and disruptive. If you have young children or elderly individuals residing in the building, it may be wise to arrange for them to stay with friends or family during the day of installation. 

For businesses, it's important to inform employees ahead of time about the scheduled installation date and any potential noise disruptions that may occur. Consider arranging for remote work or alternate working locations if necessary. 

Keep Space Available in Yard or Other Property Areas

Because installation crews will be moving equipment and materials around, it's important to have enough space available for them in your yard or other property areas. Be sure to clear any clutter or obstacles beforehand to make their job easier.

For instance, if you have a driveway or parking area where installers will need to park their trucks or store materials, make sure it's clear of any vehicles or obstructions. This will help the installation process go smoothly and efficiently. 

Safety for All Occupants

In addition to simply informing occupants about the installation process, it's important to ensure their safety during the day of installation. Make sure that children and pets are kept away from the work area at all times for their own protection. 

If anyone in your household has health concerns or sensitivities to noise or dust, consider making arrangements for them to be out of the house on the day of installation.

The Basic Installation Process

For your knowledge, here are the broad and general steps that will take place on the day of installation - keep in mind that things like permits and site assessment are not included here, as these will be arranged well in advance. 

With the right basic preparations, your home or business will be ready for the day of solar panel installation. Be sure to follow these tips and communicate with your installation company to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible. And soon enough, you'll be enjoying all the benefits of clean, renewable solar energy on your property. 

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we take pride in providing top-quality solar panel installation services to our clients. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you make the switch to solar power, whether you're in SLC, Utah or Boise, Idaho.

There are a few areas of a given property that may require just a bit of standard upkeep and maintenance during the colder parts of the year, and solar panels on the roof of your home or business are a great example. With nothing but a few very simple and occasional steps, you can ensure that your solar panels remain in great shape and producing quality energy throughout the winter. 

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to provide the very best commercial and residential solar power services to clients across Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho. Our solar power professionals are here to help with any and all of your needs, including basic recommendations or assistance with winter care for your panels. Here are some basic tips on ensuring your solar panels stay in great shape this winter, plus a few areas to steer clear of here as well. 

Ensuring Panel Alignment to Avoid Heavy Snow Buildup

One area of winter preparation goes all the way back to solar panel installation, and is one that speaks to the importance of quality installers: Making sure that your panels are angled and aligned correctly to avoid heavy snow buildup, which can cause damage or even lead to detachment in some cases. This is just one example of the thoroughness and detail we employ at Intermountain Wind & Solar during panel installation.

For instance, if your panels are not angled correctly, snow and debris will accumulate on the surface. This can obstruct sunlight from reaching the cells or even cause damage to internal components, reducing energy production. In addition, heavy snow loads can put excess weight on your roof and cause safety concerns for those below. In the worst such cases, roof collapses can occur.

Periodic Visual Checks

Like any other element of your home that's visible from the ground, you should be making periodic visual checks of your solar panels throughout the winter. This means stepping outside in between snowstorms and checking to make sure there is no damage, warping or other issues that have affected panel alignment. 

Visual checks are also important after a major storm event - heavy winds or storms can sometimes cause small shifts in panel position, which may need realignment for optimal performance. If you're unsure how to perform these checks, our team at Intermountain Wind & Solar is happy to assist.

Don't Panic When Snow Falls

We know it can be natural to worry about solar panels when snow begins falling, but the truth is that a moderate amount of snow actually helps with panel efficiency. This is because sunlight reflects off the white surface and hits the cells from multiple angles, increasing energy production. In most cases, your panels will automatically clear themselves of light to moderate snow accumulations.

If you're experiencing heavy snowfall or have concerns about how much build-up is happening on your panels, it's always best to call our professionals for assistance rather than attempting to clear the snow yourself. We have the proper equipment and training to handle this task without damaging your panels or compromising safety.

Use a Basic Snow Brush

In cases where you do need to remove snow from your panels, use a soft-bristled snow brush or broom with an extended handle if needed. The handle should be long enough that you can reach up to panels from the ground, avoiding any need to climb on the roof. Be gentle when clearing snow and do not use any sharp objects that could damage the surface of your panels.

Avoid Chemicals

Never attempt to use chemicals or other de-icing products on your solar panels. These can harm the surface of your panels and may even compromise their efficiency. If you have concerns about ice buildup, contact our team for assistance.

Don't Sweat High Winds or Extreme Cold

Solar panel owners also sometimes worry about high winds or extreme cold, but the truth is that these elements do not damage solar panels when they are properly installed. In fact, most modern panels are designed to withstand hurricane-strength winds and temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Again, however, this highlights the importance of working with a trusted installation partner like Intermountain Wind & Solar. Our installers are experienced and knowledgeable, ensuring your panels are installed with the highest level of quality and durability in mind.

Finally, remember that winter is also a great time to take advantage of tax credits and other incentives for solar panel installation or maintenance - you may even be eligible for some deductions or rebates just by keeping your panels in top shape throughout the colder months. 

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're happy to provide you with any additional information or assistance you require on winter solar panel maintenance. Contact us today to learn more about this or any of our other services for clients around SLC, Utah and Boise, Idaho.

There are a few situations where homeowners frequently wonder what to do involving their solar panels, and one great example here is anyone considering selling their home with existing solar panels. Solar panels can make your home much more attractive on the market for many buyers, but it's also important to ensure you're aware of any common needs, responsibilities or transfer details with regard to the solar panels and system setup.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to help with a wide range of commercial and residential solar power needs for clients around SLC, Utah and Boise, Idaho - including those looking to buy or sell a home with solar panels already in place. Here's a primer on why solar panels are often such an attractive component when you're selling, plus what to do before selling and how to ensure that any transfers or other processes are carried out transparently and with proper documentation.

How Solar Panels Make Homes More Attractive on the Market

Firstly, a brief overview of why solar panels are so attractive when selling a home. There are many reasons, including:

For these reasons and more, solar panels can be a major selling point for any homeowner. They often allow you to list the home at a higher price and attract more interested buyers.

What to Do Before Selling

If you're planning to sell your home with solar panels, there are a few steps you'll want to take before putting it on the market:

Solar Panel Inspection

In many cases, one very helpful step before selling is to have your solar panels inspected by a reputable company like Intermountain Wind & Solar. This allows you to identify any potential issues and address them before the sale, helping to maximize the value of your home and avoid any surprises for buyers.

For instance, the inspection might reveal that your panels are dirty, damaged or not functioning at maximum capacity. Addressing these issues can help you get the best return on investment for your solar system and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Even if no issues are found during the inspection, having documentation of the inspection can still be valuable for potential buyers. It shows that you have taken care of your solar system and can provide peace of mind for buyers.

Transferring Solar Panel Ownership

When it comes time to transfer ownership of your solar panels, there are a few key steps to follow:

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we have years of experience helping clients with all aspects of solar panel ownership - including buying, selling and transferring ownership. If you're looking for a reputable company that can provide expert advice and support throughout this process, don't hesitate to reach out today. We serve clients around SLC, Utah and Boise, Idaho, plus nearby areas in each state. Contact us today to learn more!

Your quest for uninterrupted power and a glimpse into the future of battery technology ends here, with Intermountain Wind and Solar (IWS). As a trusted industry leader in solar power for clients around Utah and Idaho since 2008, we understand your desire for reliable backup power and your curiosity about the latest advancements in battery technology. We're here to guide you every step of the way.

The Wattsmart Battery Program, created by Rocky Mountain Power, is an innovative and cost-effective way to store energy and save on your overall electricity costs. With the use of cutting-edge home batteries, you can experience uninterrupted power during unexpected outages or fluctuations in the grid.

Unlock the Wattsmart Program's Benefits

We are here to help you learn how to take full advantage of the financial incentives that were added to the Wattsmart Battery Program created by Rocky Mountain Power.

In this program homeowners are eligible for cash rebates, helping to offset the initial cost of installing battery storage systems. This program allows customers to not only save money, but also help them to become more self-sufficient in terms of their energy needs. This, in turn, can reduce their reliance on the grid and the associated electricity costs. This also allows them to have a reliable backup power source during emergencies or unexpected power outages.

Federal Tax Credits and Financial Incentives

Our solar and battery systems qualify for a 30% federal tax credit. In addition to that through the Wattsmart Battery Program customers can get $400 per kilowatt of battery capacity paid upfront, then $15 per kilowatt paid per year! It's not just a way to save on installation; it's a promise of long-term savings on your energy bills.

Whether you're adding solar to your existing system or installing a brand-new solar system, we make the process effortless. We'll be there from start to finish, helping you choose the perfect home batteries for your energy needs and ensuring their seamless integration with your solar system.

Back-Up Power That You Can Count On

Our typical client shares your values – they want a dependable source of back-up power for their home. With IWS, you get more than just power; you get peace of mind. Our solutions are tailored to ensure that when the lights go out, your home stays lit.

We offer cutting-edge battery systems with a focus on the future. These batteries are equipped with the most advanced features and come with 10-year warranties, providing you with a decade of confidence in your investment. This allows you to experience uninterrupted power and save money in the long run.

The Right Inverter for Your Needs

While the inverter isn't an IWS product, we provide you with the best choices available. It's the key to ensuring your system runs smoothly, and we offer an inverter that complements our battery technology, enabling seamless, efficient energy storage.

We're also here to help you understand battery capacity and the amount of energy you'll need to power your home during an outage or grid fluctuation. Our experts will calculate the ideal battery size for your household's unique needs, providing you with a personalized solution that ensures uninterrupted power when you need it most.

Learn More at Our Website

To learn more about how to participate in this battery rebate program visit our website at [www.imwindandsolar.com]. Here, you'll find all the information you need about our cutting-edge battery solutions, Watt Smart program benefits, and how to set up an appointment with our knowledgeable sales team.

Don't wait for the lights to go out to realize the importance of reliable power. Join the solar revolution with IWS today and experience the future of battery technology while securing your home's energy needs for years to come. We serve clients around SLC, Utah, Boise, Idaho and many nearby areas in each state, and we're excited to help you take the first step towards energy independence. So visit our website or give us a call today for more information and to schedule your free consultation. Let's power up your home with the latest in battery technology!

There are several areas where it makes sense to compare multiple options before moving forward, and those who are looking into their solar power options are a good example. When looking to compare pricing, features and related areas among your solar power options, the most common format here is the use of proposals from different providers.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to provide quality commercial and residential solar power solutions across Utah and Idaho, and we regularly build proposals to send to clients to allow them to view our comprehensive services and compare them with other providers. Here are some basics on why it pays to get multiple proposals as you're considering your solar options, plus the common elements typically included in solar power proposals and how to consider and compare them.

Why Getting Solar Power Proposals is Important

For those entering the solar space for the first time, it's easy to see solar panels as a purely aesthetic item – essentially, some sun-absorbing devices that will power your home or building. In reality, they're much more complex than this, and comparing proposals from different providers is the only way to get a full understanding of what each can offer.

This includes not only pricing and installation costs, but also maintenance fees, warranties and other critical pieces of information. These factors can vary widely between providers, and only by comparing proposals will you be able to determine which is truly the best fit for your specific needs.

Elements Included in Solar Power Proposals

Most solar power proposals will include several basic elements that allow you to compare them with one another:

Comparing Proposals in Solar Power

Once you have multiple proposals in hand, here are some areas to consider as you compare them:

Considering Financing

While your options will typically be relatively similar here across most providers, this is still an area worth checking. If one provider offers more favorable financing terms than others, perhaps they have a partner relationship or some other advantage that makes them worth considering.

Furthermore, don't hesitate to ask important questions like project delays or safety precautions now. This information can impact your decision and should be considered alongside other elements when making your final choice.

If you're ready to receive a proposal for solar power installation, or if you have any additional questions on this subject, reach out to the pros at Intermountain Wind & Solar today. We'll happily walk you through the entire process. Contact us today for more information on our solar panel services across Utah and Idaho!

The increasing popularity of solar power creates several distinct benefits for various communities and even our broader society at large, and this goes beyond well-known areas of environmental impact (though these remain quite important, and they're well-known for a reason). Another major area where solar power has a positive impact: On job creation and other economic factors throughout our society.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're happy to provide both commercial and residential solar power solutions for clients around Salt Lake City, Boise, and other parts of both Utah and Idaho. Let's take a look at the multiple different ways that increasing use of solar power across the country improves the economy and job creation in many communities, while also helping create a more sustainable world.

Job Expansion

One of the simplest and most notable effects of solar power is its positive influence on job creation. Since 2015, when the solar industry really began seeing major growth, the number of jobs in solar power has increased significantly. This is especially true when it comes to installation and maintenance roles, which offer opportunities for people with a variety of skillsets to pursue.

Moreover, these jobs are typically well-paying and offer some stability compared to other more volatile job markets. Perhaps best of all, there's no expectation of this growth slowing down anytime soon - in fact, quite the opposite. The solar industry is expected to continue expanding over the next several years and decades.

Reducing Energy Costs Across Society

Another major benefit of solar power is that it can reduce energy costs for the population at large. This is true both on a individual level, as more and more people install their own solar panels to save money on electric bills, as well as a larger societal one.

As more solar projects are built across the country, electricity prices should drop in response to the increased competition in this market. This could help businesses save on operating costs as well as provide cheaper power to low-income households, thus reducing the financial burden that energy usage can create for many communities.

Energy Security Improvements

As solar power becomes more and more popular, it can help to increase our energy security. This is because solar energy is a renewable resource that's not dependent on any particular region or external factor for its availability - which means that it can provide a secure source of energy even in the face of uncertain conditions.

This increased security could be especially useful during times of crisis, such as natural disasters or other events that could disrupt traditional energy sources. By investing in solar power now, we can help build a more secure and sustainable future for generations to come.

Boosting Business Competition

Due to lower energy costs and the increased job opportunities associated with the solar industry, it can serve to increase business competition in a variety of sectors. This is because lower energy costs enable businesses to run more efficiently and increase their profits while also allowing them to pay employees higher wages.

In turn, this helps create a level playing field where businesses are competing not only based on price but also quality - something that can benefit both businesses and consumers in the long run.

Limiting Climate Change's Detrimental Effects

While it's more of an indirect benefit, the increased use of solar power can help to limit the effects that climate change has on our planet. This is because solar energy is a clean source of power that doesn't produce emissions or pollutants in the way some other forms of energy production do.

Not only does this help businesses from a reputational standpoint, it also often does so from a practical standpoint. Climate change increases the likelihood of severe weather-related events, such as floods and droughts, that can disrupt entire ecosystems. By using solar power, we can help reduce the chances of these events occurring in the future.

In short, it's clear that solar power offers numerous benefits to our economy and job creation needs - both on a small scale and a large one. From job creation to energy cost reductions to climate change prevention, this renewable energy source can help create a better future for us all.

With Intermountain Wind & Solar, you can get the benefits of solar power in your own home or business and start experiencing these rewards firsthand. Get in touch today to learn more about our solar solutions for clients around Utah and Idaho!

Certain products and industries offer major benefits to our entire society as well as individual clients, and solar power and other forms of renewable energy are some of the top examples. While many individuals or even entities benefit greatly from utilizing solar panels on their homes or buildings, our world at large also benefits from this trend in several major ways.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to be part of a growing trend that betters the planet and our clients alike. We provide a huge range of solar panel and solar battery services for clients around Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho, plus information on the value these products offer in any area. Here are some basics on what renewable energy is and the other major formats out there beyond solar, plus the major benefits of renewable energy to our world.

Defining Renewable Energy

While solar power is one of the most well-known forms of renewable energy, there are other formats that contribute to the larger trend in green and clean power. Wind power, geothermal energy, hydroelectricity, and biomass all fall under this heading as well.

In a nutshell: Renewable energy is any type of renewable source that can be replenished without depleting resources or adding pollutants to our environment. It stands in major contrast to traditional energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas - all of which are non-renewable and therefore finite. This, in turn, means that renewable energy is typically more sustainable and has the potential to last much longer than traditional sources of powering the planet.

Now let's look at some of the ways these sources of energy benefit both individuals and the world at large.

Improving Sustainability

Naturally, one of the largest draws to renewable energies is the fact that it's a much more sustainable source of energy than traditional sources. It can be replenished without depleting resources, and in many cases it does not give off pollutants or contribute to global warming like non-renewable sources do.

In this sense, renewable energy helps people feel secure knowing they are doing their part to benefit the planet, and it also allows for a much more reliable and consistent source of energy than less-renewable sources.

Reducing Energy Costs

Another major benefit of renewable energy is that it can often be cheaper in the long run than traditional forms of powering homes or businesses. Solar power offers an especially great return on investment, as its efficiency is growing as technology continues to evolve.

Plus, with the right setup and resources in place, renewable energy can often give consumers a better return on their energy dollars than traditional sources - making it an attractive option from a financial perspective.

Energy Independence

The use of various forms of renewable energy can also provide a certain level of energy independence for societies around the world. This is especially true if nations are able to produce their own resources domestically, instead of relying on foreign imports or other sources that may be unreliable or expensive in times of need.

For instance, countries with large amounts of land or resources can use them to produce their own energy, reducing their reliance on imports and other sources.

Health Benefits of Reduced Carbon Emissions

It's not just Mother Earth's health that benefits from renewable energy - our own health may improve as well, thanks to reduced carbon emissions.

Using renewable sources means fewer pollutants in the air, reducing incidents of asthma and other respiratory illnesses caused by smog and other forms of air pollution. Plus, these resources can help reduce global warming, which presents a whole host of new health concerns for people around the world.

Jobs and Economy Growth

Another major benefit of renewable energy is its potential to create jobs and spur economic growth in certain regions. As the popularity of these sources grows, so too does the need for people to install, maintain, and monitor them - leading to an increase in job opportunities for those looking to work in green energy fields. Plus, businesses that provide services related to renewable energy can also receive tax credits and other incentives that may help spur economic growth in certain areas.

Ultimately, the use of renewable energy sources has a wide variety of benefits - both for individuals and society at large. From reducing energy costs to creating jobs and improving health, these resources are proving increasingly valuable as we look to power our planet in more sustainable ways.

And while there's still a lot of work to be done in terms of making renewable energy sources more accessible and efficient, the potential for these resources is undeniable. It's clear that investing in solar power and other forms of renewable energy can provide major benefits for both us and our planet.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're proud to be at the forefront of this trend, offering our clients comprehensive and affordable renewable energy solutions that can help them reap the many rewards these sources have to offer. Contact us today for more information about how we can help you get started with solar power and other forms of renewable energy in Utah or Idaho.

While most people are aware that today's solar panels are made to withstand typical weather issues and patterns, some may have questions about particularly severe weather issues when they crop up. One great example here is hail - will your solar panels be protected if a hailstorm hits your home or building?

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're happy to offer a wide range of commercial and residential solar power services to clients around SLC, Utah and Boise, Idaho, including expertise in areas like these. While hailstorms aren't exactly common events in either of these locations, they do happen a few times per year, and sometimes during summer rainstorms. Let's look at some of the factors that will determine whether hail may damage your solar panels, plus how to reduce any such minor risks even if they are present.

Solar Panels Are Tested for Impact - Up to Certain Limits

Firstly, it should be noted that all solar panels are subjected to rigorous testing - by the manufacturers, and then again upon delivery - to make sure that they can withstand certain forces. This includes testing for impact from hail, so it's very likely that your panel will at least be able to handle some hailstones of a particular size.

However, these tests do have limits that will vary depending on manufacturer. Most hail-related tests are for hailstones ranging from 1-2 inches in diameter, and with speeds of up to 50mph. Anything beyond these specifications could result in damage, although this will depend on some other factors as well.

Hail Damage Types and Severity

In cases where hail is either larger or more powerful than the rated capacity of the solar panels to withstand them, a few forms of damage may be possible:

How To Reduce Hail Damage Risk

Fortunately, there are ways that you can reduce the likelihood of hail damage happening to your own solar panel system. Here are some considerations:

Overall, it's important to know that the majority of solar panels are made to withstand typical hailstorms, and your system should be safe from any minor damage due to these occurrences. However, there is still some risk involved, and by following the tips mentioned above you can help to reduce the chance of any serious damage occurring.

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we specialize in assessing and installing solar panel systems for all types of buildings - hail risk included. Contact us today to discuss any questions or concerns you have about hail and solar services in Utah or Idaho, and let us help you find the best solutions for your home or business.

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