Going Solar Frequently Asked Questions

System longevity depends on climate conditions and the quality of modules installed, but typically in the PNW you can expect your modules to last 30 to 50 years or more thanks to our moderate climate. Our OR-sourced modules are designed for the PNW and come with a warranty ranging from 25 to 30 years.

Our inverters, which convert DC power to AC, also have a 25-year warranty and should last the lifespan of your solar modules. In addition to the manufacturer’s warranties, National Solar stands behind our work with a 10-year workmanship warranty for all our solar installations.

Going solar is a great way to impact the environment in a positive way. Although OR state is a leading renewable energy producer, about 25% of our energy still comes from non-renewable sources, which produce hundreds of tons of pollutants and greenhouse gases that harm both human health and the environment we live in. Investing in solar helps to reduce your fossil fuel consumption for 30 to 50 years or more thanks to the longevity of solar systems in the PNW, and the greenhouse gas offset across a solar system’s lifespan is equivalent to planting an entire forest of trees.

A solar system has no moving parts, so there should be no maintenance necessary. Keeping your panels clean, however, will affect production. Rain is usually sufficient to keep panels clean throughout the year for solar owners in OR, but it is a good practice to check your panels annually and clean if needed.

If ever there is an issue that arises with your system, we will come out and fix it at no cost to you under our 5-year workmanship warranty.

We do our best to accommodate any roof, steep or flat, tile, wood, or shingle. All roofs can be installed with solar, but your roof type may impact the cost. Different roofing materials require different installation methods and this can add time to your install to ensure that your system is properly mounted. If your roof will need to be replaced during the next ten years we recommend that it be replaced before scheduling your solar installation. If your roof is not ideal for a solar installation, we also offer raised, ground-mounted solutions as well.

No. In fact, they will help serve to protect your roof from weathering and keep your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. We use a wind and weather-resistant, hurricane-rated mounting system that will not corrode, warp, or break your roof and will not cause leaks.

Yes, and in a good way!  According to a study by the US Department of Energy, any home improvement that lowers electricity bills by $1000 annually will increase a home’s value by about $20,000

No. In Oregon State, the additional value that PV solar systems add to your home does not affect your property tax. Neither will adding a solar system trigger a reassessment of your property.