:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-970437436-e223880b78c14294b69355294d470abe.jpg "Solar panels save Americans thousands of dollars, but there's one important thing to consider before you buy one")
More and more Americans are finding that solar panels are a great way to reduce their energy bills. And while the prospect of getting your electricity bills down to zero is incredibly tempting, it's also important to understand the other costs associated with using solar panels.
Do solar panels need maintenance?
Because solar panels are exposed to the elements, they require regular maintenance to ensure they are performing at their peak. In general, maintenance and cleaning do not pose a major problem as the sloping nature of the panels makes it easy to remove dirt, snow and leaves.
Experts recommend cleaning and maintaining the panels at least twice a year, possibly depending on the local climate and level of pollution. This prevents dirt and debris from affecting the panel's power output (saving you money).
Dry areas in the country may need more frequent cleaning as the air contains more dust.
How much does solar panel maintenance cost?
Of course, the cost of maintaining your solar panel will vary depending on the size of your battery and the quality of your panels, but that cost is a small price to pay for the huge savings you'll make.
According to Forbes, you can expect to pay about $150 to have the panels in your home professionally cleaned, plus another $150 for an annual inspection.
In addition to regular maintenance, solar panels may require repairs. Solar panel repair costs vary depending on the extent of the damage, but can be expensive. Luckily, the panel is usually under warranty, so you won't have to pay for that repair until the warranty has expired.
How long do solar panels last?
In general, solar panels are extremely durable and can last 20 to 30 years with proper care. According to Forbes, warranties from reputable companies are typically 25 years or more.
The initial cost of solar panels can be significant, but they are usually cheaper than you might think. And under the Inflation Reduction Act, you can get a 30% tax credit for installing solar panels on your home (at an average cost of about $4,600 last year).
Solar panels can be a great investment for your home if you want to reduce your energy bills and contribute to a cleaner planet.
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