Do Solar Panels Make A Roof Warmer?

Do Solar Panels Make A Roof Warmer?

A roof is one of the best locations for solar panel installation for obvious reasons. Some people think, however, that solar panels are damaging to roofing materials. There is a belief that going solar can heat up a roof, accelerating its deterioration.

This notion is just a myth, and a 2011 study has already debunked it. Researchers at the University of California at San Diego found out that a rooftop solar panel system can not only produce green electricity but also cool roofing materials.

Mitigating Solar Heat Gain

Experienced solar and HVAC contractors, including Green Air Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., would attest that a photovoltaic system catches the sun’s infrared radiation. As a result, the covered roof area receives the shade and is kept away from direct sunlight.
Solar panels convert heat into electricity, keeping the surface temperature of a roof low in the process. Research shows that a PV system can reduce a roof’s temperature by 5°F, which translates to a cooler property. According to estimates, solar panels can provide long-term savings on cooling costs equivalent to 5% of their price.

Preventing Heat Loss

Like a smart HVAC system, solar panels can also reduce space heating expenses. In the winter, they keep the inside heat from escaping at night. In other words, a PV system can provide year-round utility savings, which increases the financial rewards of having one.

Blocking UV Light

Although the study focuses only on heat, it is reasonable to think solar panels block harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun too. Exposure to UV radiation causes roof degradation. For instance, asphalt shingles tend to lose their protective granules the more they are exposed to UV light.
Whether you need an HVAC repair or solar panel installation, Green Air Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. is the name you can trust. Call us to schedule your consultation and to determine if your property is a good candidate for a PV system. We serve residential and commercial property owners in Concord, California, and the neighboring communities.