Questions about Solar Energy
Why should I go solar?
Solar energy benefits you and the environment as it builds a sustainable future for your family. It helps combat rising energy bills, energy dependence and global warming.
Is solar power for everyone regardless of where they live?
Anyone who has a good site can benefit from a solar energy system. Solar works in all areas with sunlight. Schüco systems are in use around the world, and they work efficiently in almost any climate.
What is a solar energy system?
A solar energy system is one that creates usable power from sunshine. There are two kinds of systems:
- Solar thermal
Solar thermal systems use sunlight to heat water. Repower Home currently offers solar thermal solutions from Schüco.
- Photovoltaic (PV)
PV systems use sunlight to generate electricity. It’s the same technology found on pocket calculators, but just on a larger scale. Repower Home does not currently offer this solution.
Do solar energy systems only work on sunny days?
No. Solar systems work even when it’s cloudy. Naturally, cloud cover reduces the amount of solar radiation reaching the panels, but the system produces some electricity and/or heat on all but the most overcast days.
Are solar energy systems vulnerable to weather?
Our modules and collectors have tempered safety glass set deep into heavy-duty frames, and our mounting system is extraordinarily robust. Properly installed, our systems are at least as strong as the roof they are mounted on, if not stronger.
How does a solar energy system benefit me personally?
It benefits you in 4 ways:
- It saves you money: Solar energy systems reduce your energy bill, and there are federal, state and utility financial incentives available for purchasing a solar thermal system.
- It adds to the value of your home: Studies show that most Americans would pay more for a home with a solar system already installed. And as energy costs rise, anything that lowers those costs will add to a home’s value.
- It provides you with energy independence: Fossil fuels, especially oil, are often imported from potentially unstable or unfriendly countries. Supplies are vulnerable to political upheaval, trade disputes, embargoes and other disruptions.
- It’s a good investment in a sustainable future for yourself and your loved ones.
How does a solar energy system affect my home’s value?
It increases it. Studies show that most Americans would pay more for a home with a solar system already installed. And as energy costs rise, anything that lowers those costs will add to a home’s value.
How does solar energy help the economy?
Solar energy is generated locally. The energy dollars stay at home, creating economic growth.
How does my solar system help the environment?
It reduces the amount of fossil fuel that is burned, thus decreasing the pollutants and CO2 that get into the atmosphere. And fossil fuels are a leading cause of global warming and air pollution.
How does solar energy improve national security?
Currently, the US depends on fossil fuels, especially oil, imported from potentially unstable or unfriendly countries. Supplies are vulnerable to political upheaval, trade disputes, embargoes and other disruptions.
Where do I find out about federal and state solar energy incentives?
There’s a lot of helpful information on the US Department of Energy website. There you can access a database of federal and state incentives for using renewable energy. You can also visit our blog for current news and information.
Questions about the Schüco Solar Hot Water System
How does the solar hot water system work?
Extremely efficiently. Fluid — similar to antifreeze — running through a solar collector is heated by sunlight hitting the collector. This heated fluid then circulates through a storage tank, where it transfers its heat to the water in the tank.
The storage tank is part of the regular water supply and is installed upstream of the conventional water heater. The solar fluid never touches the water.
The Schüco system is designed to run efficiently, with better-output and less maintenance than conventional thermal systems.
Where is the best place to mount the system’s solar panels?
Where there is direct sunlight. For most homes, that means mounting the panels on the roof. Our rooftop mounting system is the best in the industry, and it fits shingle or pitched roofs.
What regular maintenance do I need to do?
Very little. You just need to wash the solar modules when they get dirty, so light can get through. Our special mounting hardware greatly reduces the need for periodic bolt tightening. And our systems are self-lubricating so service intervals are longer.
How long with the system last?
We guarantee the parts, performance and workmanship of our Schüco products for 5 years. The panels have a 10-year performance warranty.
Will the system give me hot water if there is a power outage?
The pump that circulates the solar fluid runs off electricity, so it won’t operate unless you have a standalone system with battery backup.
Can the system leak?
It is extremely unlikely that a properly installed Schüco system ever will. Schüco has one of the world’s best-equipped testing facilities, where the system is tested more rigorously than industry standards require.
Can unsightly algae on the collectors be avoided?
Yes. Our solar collectors use a solar fluid called propylene glycol — similar to antifreeze — instead of water. Propylene glycol is a more efficient heat transfer agent, it doesn’t freeze, and algae won’t grow in it. And it’s safe and nontoxic.
Do I need any technical knowledge to operate my system?
No. Our systems run just fine all by themselves. However, many people enjoy monitoring their system to see what it’s doing, so we provide very convenient ways to do that. And we’re always glad to provide any other technical information you might want.