Frequently Asked Questions

The purpose of a solar panel is to convert sunshine into electricity. When sunlight contacts a solar panel, the solar cells within the panel harness the light’s energy and turn it into Direct Current electricity.

The inverter transforms Direct Current electricity into Alternating Current electricity. This electricity is used to power your home. If your system creates more power than your home needs, then the extra energy goes to your local power grid. When sunlight is not feeding your panels, such as during the night, your home is powered by your utility provider.

Most roofs can support loads of 20 lbs. per sq. ft. On average, solar panels add a mere 3 lbs. per sq. ft. of weight to the roof. If your roof is in good shape, then a properly installed Shinnova system will not impede the strength or lifespan of your roof. In-fact, a solar panel system might make your roof last longer by shielding it from weather and UV rays.

​Solar panel systems are silent, and inverters produce a gentle hum that’s like the noise made by a refrigerator. They can be installed outside, in basements, garages, and utility rooms without disrupting the home.

​The amount of power your solar energy system can generate is dependent on sunlight. As a result, your solar panels will produce slightly less energy when the weather is cloudy, and no energy at night.

​In the event of a blackout, your system will shut off automatically unless you have a battery backup. This is a safety feature that keeps utility repair professionals and first responders from being injured when your panels send power back to the grid.

If you want to clean your panels, just spray them with a water hose. However, it’s unlikely that your panels will need to be cleaned because rainfall naturally keeps them free of dirt, dust, and debris.

​Solar electricity is identical to grid power, so you will never notice that the house is running on solar power. What you will see, of course, is a smaller electric bill!

Solar panels are manufactured, tested, and certified to withstand hail of up to 1 in falling at 50 mph. Snow is not a problem for them either. Most panels are installed at an angle, so the snow will slide off. If snow manages to buildup, the warmth of the panels will cause it to melt and slide off.

With no moving parts, your system will require little to no maintenance over the next 25 years and beyond. It’s that simple.

Loan terms are going to vary by lender. Shorter loan terms mean you pay off the debt sooner, and likely pay less interest, but longer loan terms ensure your monthly payment is lower and more affordable.

While you might pay slightly more interest over the long run, many homeowners choose a 120-month term or longer to ensure payments remain within their budget.

It depends on your policy and the circumstances surrounding why you need a new roof. If it’s because of a weather-related event, then homeowner’s insurance coverage might apply. But if you’re just looking to replace it because of age or to up its resale value, homeowner’s insurance likely wouldn’t assist with the cost.

Yes! We are dedicated to providing high-quality, efficient solar power to as many homes as possible, in Kansas City and beyond. For that reason, we offer financing for solar energy products and installation!

Check out our financing page or contact us to learn more!​