Complete solar panel education guide for homeowners and businesses. Learn how solar energy works, installation process, costs, savings, and available incentives in Illinois.
Understanding photovoltaic cells, DC to AC conversion, and grid connection
5 min read →Selling excess solar energy to ComEd and local utilities for credits
7 min read →Cleaning, monitoring, and maintaining residential solar systems
10 min read →Compare costs, environmental benefits, and long-term savings
8 min read →Tesla Powerwall, Enphase, and backup power solutions
6 min read →Understanding pricing, warranties, and contract terms
12 min read →Quality solar panels last 25-30 years with minimal degradation. Top manufacturers like LG and Panasonic offer 25-year production warranties guaranteeing 85-90% output.
Yes, solar panels generate electricity year-round in Illinois. While cloudy days reduce output to 10-25% capacity, cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency.
Professional solar installers use flashed mounting systems that protect your roof. Solar panels actually shield shingles from weather, potentially extending roof life by 5-10 years.
Solar panels require minimal maintenance - occasional cleaning (2-4 times yearly in Illinois) and annual professional inspections. Most systems include monitoring apps for performance tracking.