You may have seen a solar panel on top of a roof before, but did you know that there are other ways to install them? Some people want to make sure they blend in with the rest of their home’s exterior.
There are many ways to hide solar panels, and we’ll discuss some good options for those who don’t want expensive assets to be stolen.
Here are some of the key points this article will cover:
- Hiding solar panels
- Building Integrated Solar Panels
- Maintaining efficiency whilst hiding solar panels
Read through to the end, and you’ll be surprised how easy it is to hide solar panels.
Can I hide solar panels?
Yes, hiding solar panels can be done with disguise, inbuilt systems, and clever innovative multifunctioning property features.
Some people choose not to install them because they don’t want their home’s exterior changed or even as a way of protesting against fossil fuels.
You may be able to hide your energy source and still take advantage of its benefits if that is your preference.
How to Hide solar panels:
See also: How Does Weather Affect Solar Panels? Unveiling The Truth
Paint the panels!
It’s all in how you look at it! You can paint your solar panels to make them blend into your roof or even give them a different color entirely.
This paint should of course only be applied to the frames and surrounding components – the glass itself needs to remain intact.
This is one of the easiest ways to hide solar panels but also one of the most expensive, considering that you will have to pay to get them painted and then do it all over again when you switch colors.
Using In-roof Solar panels:
This is another good way to hide solar panels. In-roof solar panels look exactly like regular shingles, so you don’t have to worry about changing the house’s exterior in any way!
This option allows you a lot of freedom when personalizing your home, but they tend to be more expensive than most other options on this list.
They are also very effective because they are out of sight, so you can harness the power of solar energy while still looking like a regular home to outsiders.
In-roof solar panels are installed like regular shingles, but they must be wired directly to the home’s electrical system. This is usually done by a professional unless you know what you’re doing!
Remember that these will also make your house more attractive if it goes up for sale since they won’t need to be replaced or painted.
Solar Skin panels:
This is another option for homeowners who want to ensure that they are doing their part in saving the environment but don’t necessarily want everyone else to know about it.
These solar panels look like regular shingles, but they have a really thin layer of photovoltaic cells hidden under the top surface. You can also install them in a garage or shed!
Solar skin panels are an excellent middle ground for price and still provide all the benefits of regular solar power.
They can also be installed by anyone who has basic knowledge in roofing, but remembers that they need to connect directly with your electrical system.
Building Integrated Solar Panels:
This is one of the best options for people who want to take advantage of solar energy but don’t necessarily need all the bells and whistles that come with regular panels.
Building-integrated solar panels are designed in a way that makes them look like they belong on your roof rather than looking like an add-on or afterthought.
They are usually made out of a single sheet installed on top of your roof and then wired directly to the home’s electrical system.
This type of solar panel works best for people who want an all-in-one installation process but don’t care about how it looks from the outside! These can be expensive because professionals usually install them, but they are also highly effective.
Solar building integrated panels can be installed in the same way as regular shingles and should only take about a day to complete!
These will need to connect directly with your home’s electrical system, so you’ll want to make sure you have the right tools and knowledge to complete that step.
Invisible Solar Photovoltaic system:
This type of solar energy system is becoming more and more popular these days because it allows people to go off the grid without making their home look like it’s being powered by something other than regular electricity.
Invisible Solar Photovoltaic systems are made out of a transparent plastic film that can be installed on top of your roof in much the same way that regular shingles would be.
Remember that these need to connect directly with your home’s electrical system, so you’ll have to make sure everything works before you invite your friends or family over to show it off!
This type of solar power doesn’t produce quite the same amount of energy as some other options, but they are incredibly effective and can be used on nearly any roof.
Solar carports:
If you don’t have a large enough roof to install any of the other types of solar panels on this list, then a solar carport might be the perfect solution for your home.
These work like regular garages, except they are built with special support beams that collect and store energy from the sun. They are usually installed on the ground, but some models are designed to be made off your home’s existing roof.
A solar carport is an excellent option for people who want something that will look good while also saving them money on their electric bills!
Keep in mind that you’ll need at least one parking space inside the structure, so keep an eye on costs if you plan on using it for more than just your car.
Solar carports are usually installed by professionals and can take a few days to complete depending on the size of your home!
These must connect directly with electricity so make sure you have the right tools and knowledge before getting started or hiring someone who does.
Landscaping:
Hiding solar panels can be a lot easier if you have some landscaping to work with. Try planting bushes, trees, and other plants around the panels, so they are not visible.
You’ll also want to make sure that any areas where your solar panel’s wiring meets the exterior of your home look nice and clean by keeping them covered in mulch or other decorative rocks.
Can I cover solar panels with plastic?
No. Solar panels must be exposed to air for them to work appropriately and efficiently. Covering the panels with plastic will trap heat and cause irreversible damage. Plastic will also change the airflow in a way that can cause problems.
Will hiding solar panels affect their efficiency?
Yes. If the solar panels are not installed with proper ventilation or airflow, they can suffer from overheating and low efficiency.
To avoid this, make sure to keep any dirt or rocks away from the panels.
You also want to leave them exposed during the winter months, so snow and ice do not accumulate on top of them.
Before you decide to hide your solar panels, make sure you know what type of materials are best for each part of the process. Using the wrong materials will reduce their overall efficiency and could cause irreversible damage!
Is Painting Solar Panels a good idea?
Yes, but only in certain situations. Painting solar panels can help protect them from dirt, dust, and debris that might accumulate on the surface of the panels over time.
This is especially important if you live somewhere with a lot of wind or other natural elements that could cause damage over time.
However, it is vital not to paint your solar panel’s wires or electrical connections. Doing so could damage your solar panels and cause them to malfunction over time, which will require costly repairs later on!
What is the cost of hiding solar panels?
Paying for a service to help you hide your solar panels can cost anywhere from $50 – $500 depending on the size and number of modules that need covering.
However, this is usually just one part of an overall installation process, so it may be necessary to budget more money if you are planning any other renovations or system upgrades at the same time.
Do I need to hire a professional to hide solar panels?
Yes. For the best results, you will need to pay for installation and labor costs from a licensed contractor who can ensure that your system is working efficiently before they complete the project.
If not done correctly, hiding solar panels could cause damage or reduce efficiency, which means more money on your energy bill later!
Is it legal to hide solar panels?
Yes, as long as they are done in a way that is not considered permanent. You can choose to paint your panels or use other materials on them, so the system’s structure still looks aesthetically pleasing from all angles.
However, you cannot attach anything permanently, which might affect airflow and cause damage over time!
Is it legal to cover solar panels with objects like curtains?
Yes, but only if the covering is temporary. The solar panel covers made of materials such as cloth or plastic can be used temporarily while you clean your system and then removed just as quickly when you’re finished.
However, any permanent attachment will cause damage over time and can be very costly to repair!
What tools do I need to hide solar panels?
The specific tools you will need depend on the covering materials that you choose. You may want a stepladder, paintbrush, and other basic painting supplies if you plan to use exterior-grade spray paint or stain.
But for more decorative options like cloth coverings, all you need is some scissors and safety pins to get the job done.
