How do I know my solar panels are working?

There are four ways to check to see if your solar PV system is working. 1. If you have a central inverter, you can look on the screen and make sure you don’t see any yellow or red LED warning lights. 2. If you have a monitoring system such as eGauge, you’ll be able to track your production. 3. Your production meter will show how much power you are generating. 4. Your utility bill will show how much power your system has generated since the last billing cycle.

Why are my solar panels producing more energy when it's cloudy?

While it would seem obvious that hot, sunny summer days would result in the most production, that isn’t always the case. In the summer months, the sun is directly overhead, which isn’t always an optimal angle for production. Additionally, solar panels operate more efficiently at cooler temperatures. For these reasons, some PV systems have their best days in May and September when the sun is angled better to pitched roofs and the weather is relatively cool.

What paperwork do I need to complete to install solar on my home?

A&R Solar submits all of your paperwork, including those for certification for state incentives, local permitting requirements, and interconnection with your utility.

How can I view the energy production of my solar energy system?

Monitoring is the ability for you to see the performance of your system remotely. That’s either going to be on a website or on an app on your phone. Typically you’re going to be able to see the total production of the system, but there are micro inverters or DC optimizers. Those will allow you to see the individual performance of the modules.

Do I need battery storage when I install solar panels?

It depends. If you live in an area with frequent power outages or want to be prepared in case of an earthquake, you may want to consider investing in a battery-backup solar system. This would allow you to power some of your house with solar energy during an outage. A&R Solar has experience designing and installing battery systems throughout Washington and one of our design consultants can help you determine whether one is right for you.

Does a solar energy system require a lot of maintenance?

Not much. Even if you slack off, your solar energy system will operate effectively. If you want your system to soak up its maximum potential, hose off the panels and collectors once or twice a year, preferably in the morning while your panels are still cool. This can boost performance, especially if pollen, dirt, or debris has accumulated. If there is buildup on your panels, use a soft brush like the one you would use to wash your car along with a mild detergent. Do not pressure wash your panels and never run cold water over a hot array. If you’re not sure about doing this yourself, we offer cleaning and maintenance services in some areas. Otherwise, many local window and gutter cleaning companies can perform this work. In addition to keeping your system clean, you should always keep an eye on your system’s production and look for any significant changes in output. If you notice anything that might be out of the ordinary, please give us a call and let us know.

How do I receive the federal solar tax credit?

Homeowners and businesses who install solar and/or battery backup systems between 2022-2032 will receive a 30% tax credit. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar credit on the income tax you owe. Businesses can receive an additional 10% tax credit if they use American-made products and materials, and battery storage systems no longer need to be paired with solar to qualify for the credit. If you do not expect to owe enough in taxes this year to claim the full credit, you can roll over your federal solar tax credit to the following year. You should consult your tax accountant with any questions, although most online e-filing services allow you to easily record your system cost and claim the tax credit. You don’t need to provide any payment receipts or supporting documentation unless requested specifically by the IRS.

After your solar installation

SERVICE REQUEST

Questions and answers about your solar energy system

Congratulations on your new solar and/or battery backup system! You’ve taken a significant step toward energy independence and environmental sustainability. While your system isn’t operational just yet, there are a few key steps remaining before you can start enjoying the benefits of clean energy.

Here’s what to expect next:

What happens directly after installation?

Inspections and Approvals

Electrical and Building Inspections: Your system must pass electrical and building inspections before it can be activated. Our Project Manager will coordinate these inspections with local authorities.
Utility Approval and Net Metering: Once inspections are complete, we’ll notify your utility to install or commission your net meter.
- Lead Time: Utilities typically take up to 30 days to complete this step. Please note that this timeline is managed by the utility and may be affected by workload or weather.
- Access to Your Meter: Ensure your meter is accessible (e.g., no locked gates or dogs). If access is blocked, you’ll need to coordinate directly with the utility.

Turning Your System On

Once your net meter is installed:

Your solar panels will begin producing electricity.
Excess energy will flow back to the grid, potentially earning you credits through net metering.

We’ll notify you as soon as your system is ready to be turned on.

Post-Project Email

You will receive an email containing:

Your Operation & Maintenance (O&M) Manual, including important project documents.
Information for claiming your Federal Tax Credit.
- IRS Form 5695 for Residential Energy Credits can be found here.
Other information and paperwork, including your receipts.

How do I know my solar power system is working?

Here are four ways to check:

Monitor your system via your inverter’s app. You’ll receive instructions about monitoring from our Service Team.
Check your central inverter for any yellow or red LED warning lights (if applicable).
For systems without central inverter LEDs or monitoring, view your production meter to see real-time generation.
Review your utility bill to track your system’s contribution.

How about my battery backup system?

For Tesla Powerwall users:

Monitoring is available through the Tesla app.
In case of a power outage, your Powerwall will automatically supply backup power to your home.

If you are having issues with your Powerwall or app, Tesla wants you to contact them. Call 877-798-3752, Option 4 for the Powerwall.

My system isn’t producing as much energy as when it was cloudy. What gives?

Solar panels operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures.
The angle of the sun during spring and fall often results in peak production.

How do I claim the Federal Tax Credit?

You may be eligible for a 30% federal tax credit for your system.

Consult your tax professional for guidance. IRS Form 5695, Residential Energy Credits, and instructions are located here.
No supporting documents are required unless requested by the IRS.

How do I maintain my solar system?

Cleaning is not always required in the Pacific Northwest, and the rain can assist in washing away soiling. If you see a decline in performance or notice dirt, pollen, leaves or other debris accumulated, it may be time for a cleaning to optimize the performance of your solar system. As a preventative measure, regular cleanings will optimize performance and ensure the array performs like new.
Clean your panels 1-2 times a year with a soft brush and mild detergent. Avoid pressure washers and cold water on hot panels.
For professional cleaning, check our maintenance services or contact local window cleaning companies.
Check on your inverter (and your utility bill) quarterly to make sure they aren’t any error codes or yellow or red lights. Do this during the day as this is when your system will be active and producing.

How can I monitor my system?

Most inverters offer monitoring via an app or website.
Only systems with microinverters or DC optimizers provide detailed performance data for each panel.
Your battery status will be located on the app.

Do I have to submit any paperwork to get this working?

We handle all necessary paperwork, including:

State incentives
Local permitting
Utility interconnection

Will my PV system work when the power goes out?

No. Most PV systems will automatically shut off when the power goes out to ensure no energy is back-fed to the grid during an outage.

The reason for this is to protect utility linesmen from potential shock or electrocution who may be working on the lines to restore power. The only way to be able to run your home from solar when there is a power outage would be to have a battery backup system. Contact us today to learn more about battery backup system options and how to keep your lights on during an outage with solar energy.

My system is rated at X.XkW but I’m only seeing XkW production from it, what gives?

The nameplate rating of your system has to do with equipment that was tested in a controlled environment under standardized conditions.

Generally, your solar panels will produce no more than 80-90 percent of their rated output, even on their most productive days. Don’t worry, we’ve taken this into account! The production you are seeing today is different from the overall production that your system will produce throughout the year. Like any good solar installer, we include this variance in the design and estimation of the performance of your system.

How does the referral program work?

More than half of our business comes from referrals!

It’s simple—tell your neighbors, friends, and family in both Washington and Oregon about us. Make sure they mention your name when they contact us. If they get a system, they get $500 off their system and you receive $500 cash after their project is complete.

Still need help? Contact our service team

If you have just been installed, contact your Project Manager. They will wrapping up the loose ends on your project.

If it’s been a while, fill out our contact form or give us a call at (206) 707-9937 in Washington or (503) 420-8680 in Oregon. One of our Service Team will get back to you as soon as we are able.