Here are answers to some of the most common questions

For further questions, please contact us.

How will I know my system is producing electricity and functioning properly?

The system constantly provides feedback to you. Simply by looking at the electrical inverter display, you can instantly read your system’s power production. You can even choose to monitor your system online or by using an iPhone® application. An in-house power monitor is also available. These applications will track the amount of electricity generated over time and the money saved on utility bills.

Can I sell power back to the utility?

Yes. The DOW POWERHOUSE Solar Shingle System is typically designed to feed electricity directly into the home’s electrical distribution service panel. The solar electricity that is being produced will first be immediately consumed by the household demand. Any excess electricity generated is fed into the utility grid. Most utility companies will allow customers to net-meter their electricity. On a monthly basis, you pay only the “net” of what power is used and receive a credit that carries over to the next month for any excess electricity that was produced.

Will the system provide power during a power outage?

Only if a battery back-up is part of the system design. Because batteries generally add complexity and cost to a solar project, Dow Solar recommends a grid-tied inverter with no back-up batteries. For safety reasons, grid-tied solar systems are not permitted to function during a utility grid power outage. The inverter has controls that shut down the system in the event of a power outage. If a gridindependent back-up electricity source is desired, batteries can be added to the system design at an extra cost.

How much does a POWERHOUSE Solar Shingle System cost?

The net cost to the homeowner depends on several factors. This includes the system’s size, whether the system is being installed on a new house or with a reroof, and the location of the installation. Rebates and tax incentives also impact the final cost.

Will solar increase my property value?

Yes. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, home values raise an average of $20 for every $1 reduction in annual utility bills.

Are trees a problem?

Shading from trees, flagpoles and adjacent buildings can limit the solar shingles ability to produce electricity generation from any solar array. So, shading should be minimal as possible. A rule of thumb is to have no shading on the solar array from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our certified installers can do a complete site analysis to determine the exact shading and impact that any trees or other sunblockers will have on your solar system.

Is there really enough sunshine where I live?

Yes. As you’d expect, solar panels generally work best in areas that get the most sunlight, but you don’t have to live in California to enjoy the benefits of renewable energy. Germany has more installed solar panels than any other country in the world, and they receive about as much sunshine as Alaska (far less than any place in the continental United States). Additionally, the DOW POWERHOUSE Solar Shingle can produce electricity in a range of weather conditions, not just on bright summer days.

What size of photovoltaic system do I need?

The size depends on how much electricity you wish to offset and the amount of sunlight available, among other factors. Your utility rate structure, building aesthetics and budget are other variables. Each array is custom-designed for the house on which it is installed. A typical home may want to offset 50 percent to 70 percent of the electric utility bill. Our design experts can help assess your home’s needs and recommend a system that meets your objectives.

How can I be sure POWERHOUSE Solar Shingles will really protect my roof?

Because POWERHOUSE Solar Shingles double as both a roofing material and an electricity- producing solar device, we’ve put them through double the amount of product testing. Rigorous testing under simulations of hail, torrential rain, high winds and other harsh weather conditions has proven that our solar shingles meet building code requirements for a weather-durable roofing material. They also are proven to be an effective photovoltaic system. Our solar shingles are certified by independent labs such UL, so you can be sure they meet or exceed stringent international standards. Additionally, Dow offers the DOW POWERHOUSE Solar System Limited Warranty.

Who will install my system?

Because the POWERHOUSE™ Solar Shingle is a roofing product first, Dow Solar Solutions has authorized select roofing professionals to ensure the quality and integrity of the whole roof installation. These roofing professionals are trained on critical building code issues and are adept at handling the electricity-generating solar shingles. As a result, homeowners can be assured that their roof system provides as much protection from the elements as a standard asphalt roof and that it complies with safety codes and installation guidelines that govern rooftop solar installations. A certified electrician is needed to complete the integration into the home’s electrical system.

Is there any system maintenance required?

The system is basically maintenance-free. In areas where dust or debris can build up on the modules, occasional washing with a garden hose can improve the array’s performance but is not required. The electric inverter may require maintenance or replacement after 10-15 years.