Published February 1, 2022 by Austin Miller
Today, there are multiple options for power, including sustainable alternatives to fossil fuel. You can never be too safe when choosing an energy source. It’s always best to have a backup in case of emergencies or unforeseen shortages. But, solar panel vs. Generator–which should you choose?
Solar Panel vs. Generator
If you’re reading this article, you’re likely deciding on the use of solar panels vs. generator energy. If you’ve already committed to using solar power, consult Orlando’s top-rated solar panel services for installation information.
To make the best choice, you should be aware of both the benefits and shortcomings of solar panel and generator power systems.
Solar Power: Pros
If you live in a mainly sunny area, a solar battery backup is a viable option because solar energy is abundant. In addition, powering your home or office with solar power has the following benefits:
Longer Usage
Solar panels endure for many years, so you can expect to have them for a while. Most manufacturers issue a 20-25 year warranty guaranteeing your solar panels will function with at least 80% capacity until then.
Weather Resistant
Solar panels stand firm against harsh weather conditions. Most solar panels will hold up in even the most brutal hurricanes, as their firm frames can withstand winds of up to 140 mph. They can also withstand temperatures of up to 149 degrees Fahrenheit.
Your panels are also programmed to detect power outages and switch to your backup source when necessary.
Beneficial Cost and Maintenance
Solar panels cost an average of $20,000 to install, which can be offset by the tax credits you’ll qualify for after installation. Federal solar tax credits allow you to write off up to 26% of your total installation costs from your total tax bill.
You will occasionally need to wash away dust and debris from your panels to collect the maximum amount of solar energy. Fortunately, solar panels are effortless to maintain since you only have to clean them once or twice a year.
Solar Power: Cons
Solar energy is less powerful in places with little sunlight. Solar panels work hard to collect sunlight even on cloudy days, but your solar energy will be limited if you live in a perpetually cloudy or dim climate.
Installing solar panels can also be costly, and the costs of a solar battery are too variable to predict.
For more on solar panel vs. generator, explore our website to learn why solar panels lose efficiency.
Home Generator: Pros
Reliability
Generators burn fossil fuels that are not reliant on weather conditions and provide a predictable energy output. You can also connect them to a running gas line.
You can set up a generator as an automatic power source during an outage or use it manually.
Lower Costs
Installing a generator is far less expensive than installing solar panels.
Home Generator: Cons
High Maintenance
Generators will require regular maintenance. You’ll see these costs reflected on your utility bill.
Harms the Environment
Generators use fossil fuels which makes them cheaper, but we know fossil fuels to be toxic to the atmosphere.
So, solar panel vs. generator is a tricky question to answer. Contact PES Solar today at (800)-650-6519 to learn more about solar panel installation.
