If you’re going to install solar panels on your home, you’ll also need a solar inverter. This piece of equipment makes it possible to convert your direct current energy (DC) to alternating current energy (AC). In turn, this enables your home to utilize the energy produced by the panels that are mounted on the roof. There are two main types of solar inverters that you may encounter: String inverters and micro-inverters. 

 

What is the difference between these two types of systems? Learn more about how to choose the right solar inverter for your next major home project here! 

What Is a String Inverter? 

 

String inverters, also referred to as central inverters, are ideal for roofs that face the south and have little to no shade. They consist of a single box located near the main service panel or electric meter. On most systems, homeowners will have only one string inverter though larger systems may require two. 

 

This method works as part of a series circuit where up to 12 panels are a part of a series string. There are inputs for these strings of panels to be run specifically to your string inverter. This is where it gets its name. 

Benefits of string inverters

 

Why would a homeowner choose to go with a string inverter over a micro-inverter? Plenty of benefits abound for this type of solar inverter, from problem-solving to cost.  

 

The primary reason that homeowners choose this method is because they are relatively easy to troubleshoot if problems arise with your system. If you’re going to experience something going amiss with your system, the inverter is usually the culprit. Because you only have one or two string inverters, it is easier to narrow down where the problem actually lies. 

 

Many people are put off by the initial investment in solar panels and inverters. It is easier to install a string inverter and requires less time for the technician who is working on your home. Fewer labour hours result in a decreased cost. Not to mention, string inverters are generally less expensive than micro-inverters. 

Disadvantages of string inverters

 

While there are many benefits to choosing this type of system, there are some drawbacks as well. First and foremost, it may not be as effective if your home is in partial shade for part of the day. When one panel is affected by a lack of sun, the whole series of panels will be affected the same way. This is not the case with micro-inverters. 

 

String inverters also don’t last as long as micro-inverters. Most are only going to be covered by a warranty of between eight and twelve years. 

What Is a Micro-Inverter? 

 

Micro-inverters are also known for converting your DC energy to AC so that you can use solar energy to power your home. However, there is a big difference between string inverters and these micro-inverters. Instead of having just one unit for a series of panels, each individual panel will have its own micro-inverter installed beneath it. 

 

There is usually an equal number of solar panels and micro-inverters throughout a system. In some installations, you will find that micro-inverters can be paired with two to four panels, but this is less common than one micro-inverter per panel. 

Advantages of a micro-inverter

 

The advantages of a micro-inverter are many, but the main reason for choosing this type of solar inverter is that it can produce more electricity. 

 

Unlike string converters that are limited to the energy production of the lowest-producing panel, micro-inverters allow for the full potential of each panel to shine. This means that even if your home is in partial shade for a few hours a day, the panels that are still exposed to the sun can continue to produce the desired effects. 

 

Micro-inverters have a much longer lifespan than string inverters. While they may be expensive to install upfront, they usually come with a 25-year warranty. 

 

These types of solar inverters also make it extremely easy to expand your system in the future if you decide to pursue this route. Instead of having to connect a panel to the string series, you can simply install a new panel with its own micro-inverter. If you think that you may want to expand your system in the years to come, micro-inverters are the better option. 

Disadvantages of a micro-inverter

 

Of course, things aren’t all positive for micro-inverters. They are typically more expensive than a standard string inverter, so you’ll need to budget accordingly for your initial investment in solar power. 

 

Maintenance is another area where micro-inverters don’t win in this debate. It takes a bit of effort to determine which of your micro-inverters is causing the problem. Your technician will have to climb up on the roof, manage your racking system, and replace the micro-inverter that is problematic to restore your system to full capacity. This is much more challenging than putting in a new string inverter on the side of the house. 

 

Keep in mind that you’ll also have more equipment on your roof if you choose to go with a micro-inverter system. It will be more hardware mounted to your racking system, which can be an expensive fix if you live in an area prone to many storms. 

Should You Go with String Inverters or Micro-Inverters? 

 

The truth is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to your solar system. Both string inverters and micro-inverters offer a wide array of benefits for homeowners, but they have their unique disadvantages as well. You will have to weigh which one will be better suited to your home. 

 

String inverters are more cost-effective and are easier to troubleshoot. Micro-inverters are more energy-efficient, make it easier to expand your system, and have a longer lifespan though they will have a higher upfront investment.

 

If you need help deciding which solar inverter is right for your home, trust the experts at Powertec Solar. We have the experience necessary to help you figure out which inverter is the best option for your Winnipeg solar panels. Contact us today to learn more about how we can guide you through the process of selecting the perfect system for your home!

You already know the benefits of switching to solar energy for the environment and your budget. Once you’ve made the decision that this investment is worth it to you, then you need to take time to consider how you will protect your new solar panels. Will they be covered by your home insurance, and will it affect your rates? 

 

Before you invest in solar panels, it’s best to explore this topic in greater detail with your policy so that you can anticipate any changes to your monthly expenses. Here is everything you need to know about solar panels and home insurance: 

Are Solar Panels Covered By Home Insurance? 

 

If you are worried about how you will protect your solar panels, there’s good news for you. Your new panels are likely covered by your homeowner’s insurance because they’re attached to your home. As long as they’re damaged by a covered peril, then you should receive the coverage that you have come to expect from your policy. 

 

Covered perils are a specific type of damage that’s covered by your home insurance. For example, fire is often considered a covered peril where your insurance policy would cover the cost of repairing or replacing your solar panels. 

 

There are limits to what covered perils will encompass, though. Many homeowners are dismayed to discover that their insurance policy doesn’t cover wear and tear from general use. They also don’t cover damage that results from an earthquake or a flood unless you have these specific types of insurance on your home. 

Do Solar Panels Increase Your Home Insurance Rates? 

 

Now that you know solar panels are covered by home insurance, you might be wondering what it will do to your rates. Well, solar panels are likely to cause your home insurance premium to jump up, at least by a little bit. You’ll be saving money on the cost of your electricity bill every month, but you may be paying more to insure your home. 

 

Why do insurance companies charge more for making this improvement to your home? 

 

In most cases, it relates to the value of your home. Your policy is designed to cover the repair or replacement of your home under certain conditions. When you add solar panels to the property, you’re increasing the value of your home. Because your home will now cost more to replace or repair, the cost of your monthly insurance premium is likely to rise. 

 

But this doesn’t have to be a bad thing. You may find that the rate increases are modest, depending on the overall value of your property. If you were to sell the house in the future, you’d earn more money because of the solar investment on your property. 

How Much Will Solar Panels Cost on My Insurance? 

 

Knowing that your solar panels are bound to add to the overall value of your home, how much can you reasonably expect your homeowner’s insurance rates to rise? You have to consider the overall cost of your new solar system before contacting your insurance company.

 

For the most part, solar panels will add around $10,000 to $15,000 to the value of your home. All you need to do is increase the coverage of your current home slightly to account for this increase in the value of the home. 

 

While $15,000 is certainly a lot of money, the amount your insurance will go up should be relatively minimal. 

 

Depending on your policy, you may even find that solar panels don’t raise the cost of insurance at all. It depends on how much your solar system would cost to repair or replace and whether it fits into the replacement cost of your home’s coverage at the moment. 

 

This applies to solar panels attached to the roof. You may be required to keep a separate policy if your solar panels are not directly attached to the house, such as ground-mounted systems. 

Do I Have To Tell My Insurance Company About Solar Panels? 

 

Knowing that your rates are likely to increase with the addition of solar panels, homeowners often wonder if they should simply refrain from telling their insurance company about this upgrade. We recommend that you let your insurance company know as soon as possible so that they can offer you the policy that provides the best level of protection for your home. 

 

They can help you figure out if you need to re-rate your policy for additional coverage if you want your solar panels to be covered in the event of peril like a fire. 

 

You may have the option to decline coverage on your solar panels in an attempt to keep your monthly costs as low as possible. If you are interested in this option, it’s best to explore coverage with your provider. By not insuring your solar panels, you run the risk of losing the money that you invested in them when fire, hail, or other covered perils arise. 

 

Before you make any major decisions about your solar panels, you should always consult with your insurance company to learn the finer points of your protection under your home insurance policy. 

 

Even if you believe that you would like to decline the additional coverage on the investment, you should know whether that is truly going to be an option for you, or you might want to shop around to find the best rates on a new policy. 

What If I Lease the Solar Panels?

 

Some homeowners can’t afford the initial outlay of cash associated with purchasing solar panels outright. If you decide to lease the solar panels, there is good news for your home insurance policy. Because you don’t technically own these panels, you may not see a rate increase after the installation. 

 

Of course, there are other risks that you might want to consider when leasing your solar panels. Check with your solar energy company to ensure that they offer protection for covered perils. If they don’t provide this type of coverage for your leased panels, then you might need to purchase a separate policy that will cover them. 

 

A separate policy that covers only the solar panels shouldn’t break the budget, especially considering the money you’ll save by not having an electricity bill every month. It offers you peace of mind and protects your investment in your home. This is often money well spent!

Add-on Insurance Policies

 

There are times when it might not be ideal for your solar panels to be mounted to the roof of your home. When this is the case, they may not be covered by your home insurance policy if they aren’t a permanent fixture on your home. Instead, the insurance company might provide you the option to purchase an add-on policy that will cover these types of ground-mounted solar panels. 

 

Even though they’re not attached to your home, these panels are still incredibly valuable. It’s in your best interest to make sure they’re covered by some type of insurance policy in case of extreme weather or other covered perils.  

Damage During Installation

 

If you are installing your solar panels on the roof of your home, then you should know that you could be taking a big risk when it comes to potential damage to the roof. Hiring an unqualified contractor who doesn’t understand the finer points of installing solar panels can cause serious damage to your home. That damage may not be covered by your insurance policy. 

 

Make sure that you check with the installer in advance to know whether any potential damages to the roof are going to be covered by insurance. 

 

An insurance policy that doesn’t cover this type of damage should prompt you to have an in-depth conversation with your contractor. Many times, they will provide a workmanship warranty in the event that something goes awry during the installation process. If they are experienced in this type of work, the risk of damage to your roof will be minimal. 

 

Always be sure to check with previous customers and to read reviews to determine whether you feel that this installer is going to be the right fit for you. 

Contacting the Experts

 

If you’re serious about Winnipeg solar, then you should contact the professionals. At Powertec Solar, we believe in producing quality work and protecting your home from damage. When you’re ready to start discussing what solar panels will look like for your home, give us a call for a consultation! We offer a free solar energy feasibility analysis for your property.

If you are investing in a solar system for your home or business, you want to make sure that every dollar you spend is put to good use. There would be nothing worse than shelling out thousands of dollars for a solar system only to find out that it isn’t sufficient enough to power your home or building. This is where solar panel efficiency comes into play. 

 

What is solar panel efficiency, and why does it matter? This guide will break down everything you need to know about this important metric. 

What Is Solar Panel Efficiency? 

 

Before taking a closer look at how to plan an efficient solar system, it’s important to know what is being measured with solar panel efficiency. Measuring efficiency might be complex, but understanding how it works doesn’t have to be. Solar panel efficiency is nothing more than a way to measure how much sunlight hits the panels compared to how much of that energy is usable.

 

When you’re shopping for panels for a new solar system, you are likely to see panels that are marketed as high-efficiency or with certain percentages. This simply means that the panel is able to convert more of your solar energy into tangible electricity that your home can actually use.  

 

Don’t be fooled by the advertising, though. Some panels will share that they are high-efficiency without sharing their efficiency rating. Always make sure to read the fine print so that you know exactly what you’ll be getting from a particular panel. This can help you determine if your system will be efficient enough to power your entire home or business. 

Efficiency of Your Solar Panels

 

Most homeowners and business owners who have invested in solar panels are surprised to learn that their panels may not be as efficient as they thought. While most systems can manufacture enough energy to power the home throughout the day and night, they don’t actually produce a 100 percent efficiency rating. Instead, most panels will have an average energy efficiency rating between 15 and 20 percent. 

 

Research is underway to make solar panels even more energy-efficient than they currently are. A lot of great strides have been made to meet the energy requirements of the standard home or business. In fact, some researchers have been able to produce panels that measure up to 40 percent efficiency. 

 

Solar panel efficiency is particularly important for those who have more limited space. If your home or business has a smaller roof, you need panels that are going to be as efficient as possible so that you can power your home with fewer panels. More efficient solar panels are often more expensive, but you will need fewer panels to have the same impact. 

 

On the other hand, homeowners and business owners with large roof spaces may be able to use less efficient panels that are less expensive. They will need to purchase more panels to yield the same results, but it could be more cost-effective to build their system this way. 

Factors That Impact Solar Panel Efficiency

 

The truth is that not all panels are created equally. Efficiency is often determined by a number of factors, so be sure to do your homework before you invest in a particular set of solar panels. For example, you need to keep in mind the type of solar panel, how it’s constructed, and the outdoor conditions of your home or business. All three of these factors combine to create the efficiency of your solar panels. 

 

For example, the type of solar cell plays a major role in determining how efficient a panel will be. If you want a high-efficiency panel, then you should consider looking for a monocrystalline panel. These come in several different types, but they all tend to be more efficient than other cells, such as polycrystalline or thin-film. 

 

Even the wiring of your solar panels will affect how efficiently your panels will be able to convert solar energy into electricity. It is responsible for moving the power from the cells to the solar inverter, and this is how your home ultimately gets powered. The solar inverter is designed to convert DC energy to AC energy that can be used by your home or business. 

Getting the Right Solar Panel Efficiency

 

Choosing the right solar panels for your home can be a bit tricky. There are a lot of factors that can affect how efficient your system is going to be. Before you make any decisions about what your home needs when it comes to solar in Manitoba, you really should contact the experts over at Powertec Solar. We can help you figure out which panels are the right fit for your energy needs. Give us a call today to learn more!

With the popularity of solar panels in Winnipeg, it makes sense that homeowners are also interested in powering their garages or workshops with this clean energy source. They might already have their home tied into a solar panel system, but their detached garage or workshop is still pulling power from the grid. How can you remedy this issue and convert these parts of the home to solar? 

 

The good news is that you have plenty of options if you want to use solar energy for your garage or workshop. Here is everything you need to know about solar energy for these areas: 

Deciding How Much Energy You Need

 

The first step to using solar energy in a garage or workshop is to determine how much energy you really need. Some people may be able to get away with a small and simple system if the only thing they need to power are the lights and garage door opener. When this is the case, you may be able to install a system that will cost just a few hundred dollars. 

 

However, many homeowners who want to expand their solar system into these areas are using them for more than just the bare minimum. They may be using them to power tools or batteries. This is usually an indicator that you will need a larger system that could cost a few thousand dollars to tie in these areas of the home. 

 

Before you purchase a larger system, take the time to evaluate how much power you will really need in these areas. You can always consult with a solar energy company, like Powertec Solar, to help you determine just how much energy your workshop requires. 

 

Don’t be afraid to make a big investment in solar energy if you feel that you will use the energy produced. When you don’t have to pay a monthly power bill for the work you do in your workshop, you will be pleased with your investment. 

Benefits of Solar Energy for Your Garage

 

If you are thinking about adding solar to your garage or workshop, you might be wondering what the benefits of doing so are. The first and most pressing reason that many people turn to solar energy is that it is a greener and more renewable energy source compared to traditional electricity. However, the monthly savings on your utility bill are what often clinches the deal. 

 

There are many other benefits to incorporating solar energy into your garage. 

 

To give you an example, think about how electricity is run to your workshop right now. You might have a wire stretching from the utility pole to the building. Alternatively, you may have to dig a deeper trench to run the wires for power. When you switch to solar energy, these wires will be a thing of the past and your yard won’t appear so cluttered. 

 

Other benefits of installing solar panels for your workshop include maximizing your space. A solar energy system doesn’t have to take up a lot of space. It can even be installed on the roof so that it takes up no space at all in or around your workshop. This also helps with the cluttered feeling that often accompanies a busy workshop. 

 

Solar power is great for security and peace of mind. Particularly during the harsh winter months in Winnipeg, you might experience some downtime with your standard electricity. If you had solar power, you would have a battery backup and a constant renewal of energy as your panels are exposed to the sun. This means you would have no downtime for your workshop at all. 

 

Starting with solar panels for your garage or workshop is sometimes the first step toward having a system installed in the rest of your home. It is a great way to test the waters and see how it all works before making a major commitment with the rest of your home. 

How Do Solar Panels Work in Your Workshop? 

 

Some homeowners have the ultimate goal of taking their homes completely off the grid, forcing them to rely on renewable energy only. However, this is not the only way to go about installing a solar system for your garage or workshop. You may still encounter times when you must pull some of your electricity from the power company. 

 

Homeowners have the option to remain tied into the system and pay minimal bills from the power company for these types of situations. Your bill may shrink from hundreds of dollars to $50 or less.  

 

Grid-tied solar panels collect energy and send the energy you generate back to the utility company to offset your monthly expenses. You will still be pulling power from the electric company, but the production of solar or renewable energy will cancel out what you will draw from the grid. If you produce more energy than you use, you get paid for that unused energy. 

 

Of course, going completely off-grid for your workshop or garage is also possible. You will want to install a battery backup system, though. This ensures that you will always have some power in reserve if you want to work during a time of day when sunlight isn’t as plentiful. A battery backup comes in handy if you prefer to work into the nights or evenings. 

 

While you will be paying on the investment of the solar panels, you can ultimately save money on your monthly energy costs with the use of this system. Be sure to talk with a reputable solar energy company to see what your needs may be and how much you could save by making the switch. 

 

No matter whether you lease or buy your panels outright, going with solar is an investment. You’ll save more money on your monthly electricity costs and help out the earth at the same time, though. 

 

Getting Solar in Winnipeg

 

Solar in Winnipeg is growing in popularity for homes, garages, and workshops. Working with a reputable solar power company that has experience with these systems is essential to keeping your home running smoothly. If you’re thinking about installing solar panels for a garage or workshop, you need to reach out to Powertec Solar. 

 

We offer a free solar feasibility analysis for your desired area to help you determine what services and products are the right fit for you. Give us a call today to schedule your analysis!

A solar panel system can be quite an investment in your home, but it pays huge dividends by allowing you to minimize your carbon footprint. Because it’s such a hefty initial investment, many people wonder what they can do to protect their solar panel system from damage. One of the ideas that come up most often is critter guards. Is it necessary to shield your solar system from pesky critters? 

 

If you’re on the fence about investing in critter guards for your solar panel system, this short guide will give you all of the details you need before you invest in these precautions: 

Why Would You Need a Critter Guard? 

 

When installing solar panels on the roof of your home, we’ll always leave a few inches between the panels and the roof itself. This allows air to circulate beneath the panels, which can prevent issues with overheating. Unfortunately, this small space can be attractive to critters who are looking for a cozy place to call home. 

 

Animals that make their home in your solar panels may not affect the quality of your solar power right away. However, these same critters can impact the efficiency of your panels over time if you don’t take the right precautions. Squirrels who make their nests under your solar panels are one of the largest culprits for damaging a solar system. Not only does their presence disturb the wiring, but they also have a tendency to chew on it. 

 

Other issues that can stem from a critter invasion include a buildup of debris under the panels or around the edges, bird droppings on the panels, and other types of damage to the wiring. Just as squirrels often like to call these systems their home, birds will also build nests in and among your solar panels. 

 

The truth is that critters can play a big role in the output of your solar panels. While some of these issues can be corrected with cleaning or rewiring, it can be a real hassle and cost you more than just your initial investment into the system. You want your solar panel system to last you for the decades ahead, so a critter guard can be a great way to ensure that it does. 

What Is a Critter Guard? 

 

Now that you’re convinced that you need a critter guard, you may be wondering what exactly they are and how they work. Because there are a few inches between your solar panels and the roof, a critter guard wraps around your panels at the edges and prevents things from becoming stuck beneath the panels. 

 

You will want a critter guard on all four sides of your panel installation to keep out those small animals who are eager to make their home under there. For the most part, this applies mostly to birds and squirrels, though any small animal may take advantage of this area. 

 

Because you will need to protect your roof and solar panels from a variety of creatures, you might want to consider how much can actually pass through the barrier. While you do want to allow some air to circulate beneath the panels, you want to keep the holes small enough that critters can’t get through. 

 

As a bonus, critter guards also prevent things like fallen leaves from becoming trapped under the solar panels. This can lead to less required maintenance on your panels.

 

Some homeowners also love to install critter guards because it gives them a smoother transition from the roof to the panels. Think about what you want to accomplish aesthetically with your panels and determine if a critter guard is right for you. Some can be quite sleek, serving the dual purpose of both protecting your system and looking beautiful.  

What Kind of Critter Guard Do I Need? 

 

If you decide that you live in an area with a lot of wildlife and are in need of a critter guard, then you might wonder which type is right for you. There are several different types of critter guards on the market. Which one is the right fit for you? 

 

When aesthetics matter to you, then you may want to get a critter guard that adheres directly to your mounting gear. These are often made of grates or grills that still allow the air to pass underneath your solar panels but make it impossible for any type of critter to build their nest beneath the panels. These tend to be heavy-duty guards that are suitable for many small animal invasions, such as squirrels. 

 

A solar skirt can also be an option to give you a sleek appearance as your panels’ transition to your roof. While these aren’t technically designed to be critter-proof, they can be quite helpful at deterring small creatures from making an easy home on your roof. 

 

The other benefit to these two types of critter guards is that they don’t allow for debris buildup on the roof. Falling pine needles, leaves, and twigs can all get lodged beneath your solar panels if you live in a heavily wooded area. This is true even if you do not have creatures who are bringing debris to your rooftop. A good critter guard also protects you from lost efficiency due to debris. 

 

On the other hand, you may only struggle with birds who want to make their nests among your solar panels. When this is the case, bird netting is a sufficient option. It is lightweight yet strong enough to keep persistent birds out from underneath your panels. 

 

Keep in mind that this type of bird netting may not restrict as much debris from accumulating under the solar panels. You may still find small leaves and pine needles under your panels that will need to be removed a few times each year. Alternatively, you can look for bird netting with smaller grids to restrict access to the underside of the panels. 

Are Critter Guards Right for You?

 

For most homeowners, critter guards are going to be a necessary component to the solar system that they recently had mounted on their roof. They will prevent damage and debris buildup from small animals who nestle in and make their home here. Not to mention, some critter guards can also give you a sleek transition from the roof up to your panels. 

 

If you are interested in solar panel systems or critter guards, be sure to contact Powertec Solar. We have the experience you need to take care of your home to the best of your ability. Give us a call today to see how we can help you!

With the advances made in technology, many people are considering making the switch to more renewable energy sources. Solar panels make it easier than ever before to consider trying to live off-grid, but there are some questions that must first be answered. First and foremost, you must know if it is legal to live off-grid in Canada. 

 

Before you make the jump into off-grid living, there are a few things you need to know about the technicalities of this lifestyle. If you are ready to learn more about disconnecting from the grid in Canada, this guide will walk you through what is and is not permitted according to the law: 

Is It Legal To Live Off-Grid in Canada? 

 

Living off-grid simply means that you do not connect to the traditional power grid to provide electricity to your home. While this is an appealing prospect for many homeowners, they are often worried that they may actually be doing something illegal. 

 

The good news is that living off-grid is perfectly acceptable in Canada, but there are restrictions on what you can and cannot do. 

 

The most important things to be aware of are the national building codes. Even if your house is off-grid, it must still adhere to certain safety standards. You won’t be able to move into an old and abandoned barn just because it has power through solar panels. Your home still must be safe for you to live in, meaning that it will require certain precautions such as smoke alarms. 

 

Keep in mind that you can still install some of these important components and run them off of your solar power. Alternatively, you can use batteries to ensure that they’re always functional in the event of an emergency. 

House Size Matters

 

In addition to adhering to local building codes regarding safety, most areas also have minimum requirements when it comes to the square footage of your home. This will vary across Canada, but it is most likely that your home will need to be between 500 and 1,000 square feet minimum. This can put a serious damper on anyone who was hoping to build an extremely tiny home. 

 

Keep in mind that you will need to get a building permit to construct your new off-grid home. If you don’t do things by the book, the government can demand that you abandon your property until you are able to resolve the issues. 

Choosing the Land

 

After you ensure that your home is safe and adheres to all of the local building codes, you must think about where your home is located. Many people who think of living off-grid imagine moving their tiny house to a large plot of land or living deep inside the woods. Unfortunately, this is likely illegal unless you have rights to the land. 

 

As long as you own the land that you are going to be residing on, there should be no further issue with your ability to live off-grid in Canada. In Canada, squatter rights don’t exist, which means that you’re not allowed to set up your house on any patch of land you so desire. 

  

It’s also illegal to camp out for an extended period, even if you own the land. Individual counties will set restrictions on the amount of time you can legally spend camping in your backyard, but the general consensus is about two weeks. This is designed to keep homeless individuals from setting up tent cities, but it can also limit what you can do to live off-grid as well. 

What About Taxes? 

 

Many people wonder about the logistics of what they will owe the government if they are entirely self-sufficient. Frequently, those who choose to live off-grid are also involved in a number of other self-sustaining activities, such as growing their own food. Because they don’t rely on the infrastructure, they might be wondering whether they still have to pay taxes at the end of the year.

 

Yes, you still have to pay taxes to the Canadian government. These take the form of your income taxes each year. Even though you may not be using any government-aided programs, they still need that money to assist with fixing things like roads. Chances are that you still take advantage of some of these government-run functions. 

 

You should also keep in mind that your home must be located on property that you own or have rights to. If you choose to own the land, you will still owe property taxes on this annually. This is based on the square footage of your lot, its location, and more. 

Is Off-Grid Living Right for You?

 

There are many different ways to approach off-grid living in Canada. Making sure that you’re following all the laws is significant if you want to make this a sustainable and long-term lifestyle for years to come. Solar panels are one way to ensure that you have enough sustainable power to live without being grid-tied.

If you are thinking about Manitoba solar, then you need the expert help at Powertec Solar. We can give you the advice you need to go about making the transition the easy way!

Chances are that you are using rechargeable batteries in some capacity within your home or car. According to some sources, almost half of all battery sales are categorized as renewable batteries, such as AGM batteries or flooded batteries. If you are trying to understand the difference between these two types of batteries, here is everything you need to know about AGM vs. flooded batteries for your home:  

AGM vs. Flooded Batteries: The Basics

 

Before we dive into the difference between AGM and flooded batteries, it is important to note their similarities. Both types of batteries are considered lead batteries because they contain an electrolyte solution. This solution presents in different forms (dry in AGM batteries and liquid in flooded batteries). 

 

The electrolyte solution causes a chemical reaction with the production of electrons. The battery charges itself when it comes into contact with a reverse current. However, this is where the similarity between the two types of batteries comes to an end. 

 

Let’s take a closer look at how each of these batteries functions to help you decide which one is the right pick for your home: 

AGM Batteries

 

Absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries are a great option for those who want maintenance-free upkeep with their rechargeable batteries. They are designed with a glass mat separator which is where their name is derived. In this battery style, the separator serves as a wick for the electrolyte solution that must move between battery plates. The electrolyte solution is stored in a dry state as opposed to a liquid state. 

 

When you want to tap into the energy of your battery, that electrolyte solution is then moved from the separator to the battery plates and can deliver at optimal capacity. 

 

AGM batteries are great because they don’t require any maintenance, whereas flooded batteries do. Performance-wise, AGM batteries tend to do better than flooded batteries due to the fact that they have no liquid and only minimal gassing. They are also spill-proof, so you won’t deal with any electrolyte loss if the battery gets flipped over. 

 

On the other hand, there are some disadvantages to using AGM batteries. They tend to be a bit more sensitive to both over and undercharging. This sensitivity can impact how long the battery will last and perform at optimal levels. 

 

These batteries are commonly used in off-grid power systems with renewable energy systems such as solar power. 

Flooded Batteries

 

While AGM batteries have a lot of benefits for off-grid systems, it’s still more common to see flooded batteries on the market. They are sometimes referred to as wet cell batteries because they use a liquid electrolyte or acid. This liquid must be regularly maintained if you want your flooded batteries to perform at their highest level. 

 

You will need to have flooded batteries maintained by a professional on a regular basis to ensure that they have the proper acid levels. This is an added cost to maintain your home on this type of battery, but they do tend to last longer than AGM batteries when maintenance is performed. 

 

These batteries are most commonly used for backup power applications and energy storage from the grid. 

 

You must be extremely careful with flooded batteries in a way that you don’t have to be with AGM batteries. In addition to having routine maintenance done on flooded batteries, you also have to be cautious with them. Any type of harsh movement can impact its ability to function at the highest level. 

 

Be sure to store your flooded batteries in an area that is mostly protected from the elements. The extreme temperatures found in Winnipeg, particularly during the winter months, can spell major problems for your flooded batteries. The acid inside the battery can actually freeze in cold weather. Similarly, it can also evaporate in the brutal heat of the summer. 

Should You Use AGM Batteries or Flooded Batteries? 

 

Both of these prominent types of batteries are great for use with solar systems that are designed to take your home off-grid. If you don’t mind the maintenance and upkeep required with flooded batteries, then you might like the idea of the longevity of the battery. 

 

On the other hand, an AGM battery is more durable due to the dry electrolyte solution. It is less influenced by the weather conditions or movement from one location to another. However, you may have to replace it more frequently than you would with a flooded battery. 

 

If you are thinking about installing solar power in Winnipeg and aren’t sure what type of battery backup to use, Powertec Solar can help you figure out the best option based on your needs and the needs of your home. Allow us to conduct a solar feasibility analysis to guide you through the process of finding exactly what you need to make the switch to solar!