Pairing Solar Energy with Battery Storage

Pairing Solar with Battery Storage: Is It Worth It in PA?

If you’re considering switching to solar energy, you’ve likely heard about solar batteries and energy storage systems. As more homeowners in Pennsylvania make the move to clean energy, questions are growing around whether a home solar system should include battery backup.

At O’Donnell Solar Co, we specialize in helping Pennsylvania homeowners get the most from their solar panel installation. While residential solar energy systems are already a smart investment, pairing them with solar batteries can take your energy savings and energy independence to the next level, but it’s not always necessary for every home.

Here’s what you need to know to decide whether battery storage is worth it for your home.

What Is Solar Battery Storage and How Does It Work?

Solar batteries are designed to store excess electricity generated by your solar panels during the day, so you can use that energy at night or when the power goes out. Instead of sending all unused power back to the grid, a portion of your home solar power is stored on-site for immediate use when needed.

When paired with a standard solar energy system, battery storage offers greater control over how and when you use your energy. For Pennsylvania homeowners looking to reduce their reliance on the grid or ensure they have power during an outage, adding a battery to your solar energy installation can be a game-changing upgrade.

Benefits of Adding Battery Storage to Your Solar Energy System

Reliable Backup Power During Outages

Pennsylvania weather can be unpredictable — from heavy snow to summer thunderstorms. Home solar power paired with battery storage provides peace of mind during grid outages, allowing you to keep essential appliances running even when the utility goes dark.

Energy Independence and Self-Consumption

One of the main benefits of residential solar power is reducing your reliance on electric utilities. With battery storage, you can use more of your own home solar energy — not just during the day, but also at night when energy demand is high. That means fewer spikes in your electric bill and greater control over your power supply.

Future-Proofing Your Energy Strategy

While Pennsylvania doesn’t yet have widespread time-of-use electricity pricing, rates could shift as demand increases. Adding a solar battery today gives you flexibility down the line, helping you store energy when it’s cheap and use it when grid rates are higher.

How Net Metering Affects the Decision

Pennsylvania’s net metering policy is currently one of the most generous in the country. It allows homeowners with solar panels in Pennsylvania to earn full retail credit for any extra energy they send back to the grid. Because of this, some homeowners choose to skip battery storage altogether, since the grid essentially “stores” their power for free.

However, net metering doesn’t help during outages — and it may not last forever. With more utilities reevaluating their policies, some Pennsylvania homeowners are choosing solar batteries now to be prepared for future changes.

Is Battery Storage Worth It for Your Home?

Battery storage may not be necessary for every homeowner, but it can be a smart investment in the right scenarios. A home solar system with battery backup may be worth considering if:

  • You live in an area with frequent or prolonged power outages

  • You want to maximize your energy independence

  • Your property is rural or not well-connected to the grid

  • You want to future-proof your energy strategy

  • You’re looking for added peace of mind and reliability

At O’Donnell Solar Co, we evaluate each home on a case-by-case basis. We help our customers understand when battery storage makes sense — and when it might not.

What to Know Before Installing Solar Batteries

Before deciding on battery storage, it’s important to understand the cost, installation requirements, and system compatibility. Solar batteries typically last 10–15 years, so they may need to be replaced at least once over the lifespan of your solar panels.

The good news? Solar energy storage is eligible for the 30% federal tax credit when installed as part of your initial solar panel installation — making it more affordable than ever to invest in a fully integrated home solar power system. Our team will walk you through the technical specs, space requirements, and integration details to help you decide if a battery is right for your home and budget.

How O’Donnell Solar Co Builds Smart Solar + Storage Systems

As a trusted solar panel installer serving Southeastern Pennsylvania, O’Donnell Solar Co designs custom energy systems that match each homeowner’s goals. Whether you’re focused on energy savings, emergency backup power, or full independence from the grid, we help you create the right system for your property.

From solar energy installation and performance monitoring to long-term support and service, we provide honest guidance and industry-leading expertise. Our team also ensures your system qualifies for all available state and federal incentives — maximizing your return on investment.

Ready to Explore Solar + Storage?

Pairing residential solar energy with battery storage isn’t just about backup power — it’s about giving homeowners more control, greater resilience, and long-term value from their solar energy system. Contact O’Donnell Solar Co today to learn whether solar batteries are a smart fit for your home. We’ll assess your energy needs, explain your options, and design a solution that powers your future with confidence.

How Long Do Solar Panels Last?

How Long Do Solar Panels Last? Understanding the Real Lifespan of Your System

Investing in solar energy is one of the smartest long-term decisions a homeowner can make — not just for the environment, but for your wallet, too. But before committing to a solar installation, many homeowners ask the same practical question: How long do solar panels last?

At O’Donnell Solar Co, we install high-performance solar panels in Pennsylvania that are designed to deliver clean energy and dependable savings for decades. As experienced solar panel contractors, we know that longevity is just as important as performance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how long your system can last, what impacts its lifespan, and how to get the most from your investment through proper solar panel maintenance and support.

What’s the Average Lifespan of a Solar Panel?

Most solar panels are built to last 25 to 30 years, and many continue producing electricity long after that — just at slightly reduced efficiency. A typical solar panel installation will include panels that come with a 25-year performance warranty, meaning they’re guaranteed to produce 80–90% of their original output during that time.

That said, many homeowners in Pennsylvania see strong solar performance well past the 30-year mark, especially when the system is installed and maintained by a professional solar panel installer who understands the local climate, roofing conditions, and energy goals.

Understanding Solar Panel Degradation

All solar panels degrade slightly over time, meaning they slowly lose a small percentage of their efficiency each year. The industry average is around 0.5% per year, although higher-quality panels may degrade more slowly. After 25 years, your panels might still be producing 85% or more of the energy they did when first installed — still enough to power much of your home and offset your utility costs.

At O’Donnell Solar Co, we use durable, low-degradation panels that hold up to Pennsylvania’s varied weather — from winter snow to humid summers — while maintaining strong output year after year.

What About Inverters, Batteries, and Other System Components?

While solar panels themselves are built to last for decades, other system parts may need replacement sooner. For example, string inverters (which convert your panel’s DC electricity into usable AC power) typically last around 10 to 15 years. Microinverters and power optimizers, often mounted directly on panels, can last 20 years or more.

Battery storage systems, if included in your solar installation, usually have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, depending on usage patterns. At O’Donnell, we help homeowners plan for these milestones and make sure replacement timelines are clear from the beginning.

What Factors Affect Solar Panel Longevity?

A number of factors can influence how long your solar panels last and how efficiently they perform over time:

  • Panel quality — Not all solar panels are created equal. We only install panels from proven, Tier 1 manufacturers with strong long-term performance records.

  • Installation practices — A poor install can shorten a system’s life. Our experienced solar panel installers ensure every mount, connection, and seal is made to last.

  • Climate and exposure — While solar panels in Pennsylvania are built to withstand snow, hail, and heat, performance can degrade faster if panels are consistently covered in debris or exposed to extreme temperature shifts.

  • Routine care — Ongoing solar panel upkeep matters. Panels that are kept clean, clear of debris, and regularly monitored tend to last longer and perform more reliably.

The Role of Solar Panel Maintenance

Although solar panels are low-maintenance, regular care plays a big role in maximizing performance and lifespan. Dust, pollen, bird droppings, and leaves can build up on the surface of your panels and block sunlight — reducing output by up to 20% if left unaddressed.

That’s why solar panel maintenance and occasional solar panel cleaning are so important. While some homeowners handle this themselves with a soft brush or hose, others prefer to hire professional solar panel cleaners who can safely and effectively remove buildup. At O’Donnell Solar Co, we offer maintenance and inspection services to ensure your system continues running at its best. We also advise you when it’s time to clean your panels, and can refer trusted solar panel cleaners in your area if needed.

How to Tell When It’s Time to Upgrade or Replace

While your solar panels will likely outlast most other components in your home, there are signs that it may be time to upgrade or replace them down the road. A consistent drop in energy production, physical damage (like cracking or warping), or the failure of key components like the inverter may all point to a need for service.

O’Donnell Solar Co offers system evaluations for older or underperforming solar arrays and can help homeowners upgrade their system with the latest technology — including higher-efficiency panels, new inverters, or integrated battery storage. Whether you installed your system ten years ago or just moved into a home with existing panels, we’re here to help you keep everything running smoothly.

How O’Donnell Solar Co Supports Your Long-Term Solar Investment

Choosing the right solar panel contractor is one of the most important steps in securing a long-lasting system. At O’Donnell Solar Co, we don’t just install panels — we partner with homeowners to ensure they receive the full value of their investment over time.

We offer system monitoring support, scheduled maintenance, professional guidance on solar panel upkeep, and responsive service whenever questions arise. Whether you’re in Berwyn, Bensalem, or anywhere in Southeastern Pennsylvania, we’re here to support your transition to solar energy with expertise and local care.

Invest in Solar That Lasts

Solar panels are built to go the distance — and when installed and maintained correctly, they’ll continue delivering reliable solar energy for 25 years or more. With the right products, the right solar panel installer, and a trusted partner like O’Donnell Solar Co, your system can offer decades of clean, low-cost power.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation or performance checkup. Whether you’re planning a new solar panel installation or want to extend the life of an existing system, O’Donnell Solar Co is here to help you power your home for the long haul.

How to Maintain Your Solar Panels Year-Round

How to Maintain Your Solar Panels Year-Round

One of the biggest advantages of installing a solar panel system is its durability and low-maintenance design. But like any home investment, a little care goes a long way. Keeping your panels clean, unshaded, and functioning properly can make a measurable difference in performance and energy savings over time.

At O’Donnell Solar Co, we specialize in high-performance solar panel installation across Southeastern Pennsylvania — and we continue supporting our customers long after the system is up and running. Whether you’re new to residential solar power or have had your system for years, understanding seasonal maintenance is key to getting the most from your investment.

Why Solar Panel Maintenance Matters

Although solar panels in Pennsylvania are built to handle harsh winters, hot summers, and everything in between, environmental conditions can still impact how much sunlight reaches your system. Over time, leaves, pollen, bird droppings, snow, and other debris can reduce solar absorption and lower your energy output, sometimes by as much as 10–20% if left unaddressed.

Routine maintenance is about more than just cleaning; it’s about protecting the long-term efficiency of your solar energy system. By staying ahead of small issues — like growing tree shade or loose mounting hardware — homeowners can preserve system integrity and extend the useful life of their solar installation.

Spring: Shake Off Winter and Prep for Peak Production

After a long Pennsylvania winter, your solar panels might carry leftover debris, tree sap, or a thin film of pollen. Early spring is an ideal time to inspect the panels for signs of grime buildup and to check whether any new shade sources — such as budding branches — might impact sunlight exposure.

If accessible from the ground or with a safe extension tool, you can gently rinse your panels with a hose using lukewarm water and a soft brush. However, if your roof is steep or difficult to reach, it’s safer to contact your solar panel installer for a professional cleaning or inspection. This is also a great time to review your monitoring app to make sure your system is performing at expected levels after winter’s lower production months.

Summer: Stay Ahead of Dust and Heat

Pennsylvania summers bring long days and optimal solar energy production, but they also come with dust, bird activity, and the occasional heatwave. Although solar panels are designed to function well in high temperatures, the buildup of dust and grime during dry spells can reduce their efficiency. You might notice a slight dip in energy output if panels are not periodically cleaned.

Homeowners can often handle light summer maintenance with a garden hose and routine visual checks, but we encourage monitoring your energy production through your app. If you see unusual patterns or persistent underperformance, O’Donnell Solar Co can assess your system and confirm whether it’s a cleaning issue or a deeper technical concern.

Fall: Prepare for Changing Light and Falling Leaves

Autumn in Pennsylvania is beautiful, but for your solar panels, it can be one of the more demanding seasons. As leaves begin to fall, they can collect on the panels or in the surrounding gutters, potentially shading your array or trapping moisture. It’s also common for trees to begin encroaching on your solar access if they’ve grown significantly during the spring and summer months.

Trimming back overhanging branches and clearing your roof area of debris are essential fall maintenance steps. This is also a good time to inspect for frost damage or early ice buildup as temperatures drop. If you want peace of mind heading into winter, this is the perfect time to schedule an annual system check with our team at O’Donnell Solar Co.

Winter: Handle Snow with Care

One of the most common concerns we hear from Pennsylvania homeowners is whether snow will affect their solar panel installation. The good news is that most light snowfall melts quickly from panels, especially once the sun comes out. However, heavy accumulation can temporarily reduce your system’s output and may require attention.

We advise against climbing on icy rooftops or using metal tools to remove snow — this can damage both your panels and your safety. Instead, consider using a soft, roof-safe snow broom with a long handle if removal is necessary. In most cases, it’s safe to let nature do the work. If you’re unsure whether your panels are underperforming because of snow or another issue, our monitoring tools and service team are here to help.

Monitoring Your Solar System Year-Round

Thanks to today’s technology, tracking your home solar electricity system has never been easier. Most systems installed by O’Donnell Solar Co come with app-based monitoring that allows you to view real-time energy production, panel performance, and system health. This data can help you recognize when performance drops — and when maintenance or service might be needed.

If you notice a sustained dip in energy production that isn’t tied to weather patterns, it may be time to schedule a professional inspection. Our team is trained to identify and resolve issues like faulty inverters, damaged cabling, or panel obstructions quickly and efficiently.

When to Contact O’Donnell Solar Co for Service

While regular visual inspections and occasional cleanings can be managed by many homeowners, certain issues require professional attention. If you notice cracked glass, disconnected wiring, alert codes from your inverter, or persistent system underperformance, it’s time to contact the experts.

At O’Donnell Solar Co, we offer follow-up inspections, system evaluations, and repair services to ensure your Pennsylvania solar power system continues delivering the savings and efficiency it was designed for. As your trusted solar panel installer, we’re here to support you throughout the full life cycle of your system.

Long-Term Peace of Mind

Maintaining your solar panels doesn’t require a lot of time — but it does require awareness. A little seasonal attention can make a big difference in how much energy your system produces and how long it lasts. With the right care, your panels will continue powering your home and reducing your electric bill for decades.

O’Donnell Solar Co is proud to serve homeowners across Berwyn, Bensalem, and the surrounding region with reliable solar installation, personalized service, and long-term support. Whether you need routine maintenance, performance monitoring, or a full-service system inspection, we’re always here to help.

Need help keeping your solar panels in peak condition? Contact O’Donnell Solar Co today to schedule a maintenance checkup or get answers from your local solar energy experts.

How Solar Panels Increase the Value of Your Home

How Solar Panels Increase the Value of Your Home

Homeowners across Pennsylvania are turning to solar panel installation not only as a way to cut energy bills but also to make a smarter long-term investment in their property. Installing a home solar panel system doesn’t just lower utility costs — it can also raise your home’s resale value and market appeal.

At O’Donnell Solar Co, we help homeowners throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania understand how residential solar power impacts not only monthly savings but overall home equity. If you’re considering solar, here’s how it can directly increase the value of your home — and why buyers are paying attention.

Do Solar Panels Really Add Home Value?

Yes — and the data backs it up. According to a study from Zillow, homes with solar panels sell for about 4.1% more on average than comparable homes without them. Similarly, research from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that buyers are willing to pay a premium for homes with home solar electricity systems in place — especially when those systems are owned outright.

In Pennsylvania, where energy prices are on the rise and solar incentives are robust, this added value becomes even more significant. Buyers increasingly view solar panel installation as a built-in asset that promises long-term energy savings and environmental benefits. For sellers, this means shorter time on the market, more competitive offers, and better return on investment.

Lower Energy Costs = Higher Buyer Appeal

Today’s homebuyers are looking for more than curb appeal — they want efficient homes that reduce monthly expenses. A home with a professionally installed solar energy system offers exactly that. When buyers see predictable, lower electric bills backed by actual usage data, they’re more likely to see the home as a sound investment.

At O’Donnell Solar Co, we equip each system with performance monitoring tools that allow you — and eventually your buyer — to track how much power your system is generating and how much money it’s saving. That transparency is a huge selling point and adds confidence during the home sale process.

Home Solar Panels and Appraisals

One of the key ways solar increases home value is through its inclusion in appraisals. When you own your residential solar power system outright, it can be included in the appraised value of your home — often resulting in a higher valuation, which directly impacts resale price and financing options.

Leased systems or solar PPAs (Power Purchase Agreements), on the other hand, can sometimes complicate a sale. At O’Donnell Solar Co, we focus on home solar panel installation systems that homeowners own, ensuring that the full value of the system adds to your equity — not someone else’s.

We also provide documentation and support that appraisers and agents can use when evaluating your home, helping you get full credit for your solar investment.

Federal and State Incentives Boost Long-Term Value

Beyond energy savings and home value appreciation, solar installations also benefit from a variety of federal and Pennsylvania-based incentives that make going solar even more attractive — and valuable.

  • Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): Homeowners installing a new solar system are eligible for a federal tax credit equal to 30% of the total system cost. This is a direct reduction in the taxes you owe and significantly lowers your upfront investment.

  • Pennsylvania Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs): As a Pennsylvania homeowner, you earn SRECs based on the amount of electricity your solar system produces. These certificates can be sold to utilities that need to meet renewable energy quotas — offering you additional income every year your system operates.

  • Net Metering in Pennsylvania: Under Pennsylvania’s net metering policy, any excess electricity your system generates is sent back to the grid — and you earn credits toward future utility bills. This means even more savings over time and better overall system performance value.

These incentives don’t just make solar more affordable today — they improve the long-term return on investment, adding another layer of financial appeal for potential homebuyers down the road. When you work with O’Donnell Solar Co, we walk you through every incentive you qualify for and help you take full advantage of the benefits available to Pennsylvania residents.

Buyers Want Turnkey, Energy-Efficient Homes

Energy efficiency is no longer a bonus — it’s a selling point. Buyers are looking for homes that align with their values and help reduce their monthly expenses. Solar-equipped homes deliver both.

A home solar electricity system installed by O’Donnell Solar Co is a fully integrated, low-maintenance upgrade that today’s buyers are seeking. When paired with additional energy-smart features — such as EV chargers or battery backup systems — your home becomes even more desirable in a competitive real estate market.

How O’Donnell Solar Co Maximizes Your Investment

Every solar panel installation we complete is customized to meet the unique needs of the homeowner and the property. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all systems — we design with long-term performance, aesthetics, and future value in mind.

We assess your roof’s condition, your energy usage, your property’s solar potential, and your future plans to build a system that not only works for you today, but continues to deliver value if and when you decide to sell. With full documentation, performance tracking, and clean installations that enhance your home’s appearance, we make sure your system is a true asset — not just a utility solution.

Ready to Add Value with Solar?

A professionally installed home solar panel system offers more than monthly savings — it’s an investment in your home’s long-term worth. With generous state and federal incentives, strong buyer demand, and the expertise of O’Donnell Solar Co, there’s never been a better time to go solar in Pennsylvania.

Contact us today to schedule your free solar consultation and discover how solar can add comfort, savings, and lasting value to your home.

Is Your Roof Ready for Solar?

Is Your Roof Ready for Solar? What to Know Before Installation

Installing solar panels is one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make — but before you commit to a system, it’s important to answer a key question: Is your roof ready for solar?

At O’Donnell Solar Co, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Southeastern Pennsylvania transition to residential solar power with confidence. One of the first things we assess in every home solar panel installation is whether the roof is structurally and strategically prepared for the long-term demands of a solar energy system.

Solar panels are designed to last 25 years or more. If your roof isn’t up to the task, it can lead to costly delays, additional construction, or premature roof replacement down the road. In this post, we’ll walk you through the most important factors that determine roof readiness — and how O’Donnell Solar Co ensures your system is built on a solid foundation.

Roof Age Matters More Than You Think

If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s often better to replace it before adding solar panels. A standard asphalt shingle roof typically lasts 20 to 30 years, while solar panels can operate effectively for 25+ years. Installing panels on an aging roof may require removing and reinstalling them within just a few years — adding cost and complexity.

At O’Donnell Solar Co, our team evaluates the condition and age of your roof during the initial consultation. If we find that your roof won’t outlast your solar system, we’ll guide you through your options — whether that means coordinating with a local roofer or helping manage the roof replacement as part of your full home solar panel installation project.

Structural Condition: Safety and Support

Your roof must be structurally sound to support the weight of solar panels, mounting systems, and potential snow accumulation during Pennsylvania winters. Issues like sagging, soft spots, leaks, or previous water damage can all compromise the safety and effectiveness of your system.

As part of our site assessment, O’Donnell Solar Co inspects your roof for signs of wear and structural weakness. We won’t install a system on a roof that isn’t ready — and we’ll always give you honest recommendations about repairs or upgrades if needed.

Direction and Angle: Does Your Roof Get Enough Sun?

In Southeastern Pennsylvania, south-facing roofs typically get the best sun exposure for solar panel installation, but that doesn’t mean other orientations are disqualified. East- and west-facing roofs can still be effective depending on your energy needs and shading conditions. Pitch (the angle of the roof) also affects how much sunlight your panels will receive throughout the day.

Our team uses digital modeling tools and solar mapping software to determine how much sunlight your roof receives annually. This allows us to design the most efficient layout for your home solar electricity system — maximizing your return on investment.

Watch Out for Shade and Obstructions

Even a great roof won’t deliver optimal performance if it’s shaded by nearby trees, chimneys, or neighboring buildings. While some shading is manageable — especially with the use of microinverters or optimizers — significant shade can reduce the effectiveness of your system.

O’Donnell Solar Co performs a detailed solar access study on every property. If we identify problematic shading, we’ll explore solutions such as strategic panel placement, trimming vegetation, or evaluating alternative locations like detached garages or ground-mounted solar panels.

Roofing Material: What Type of Roof Do You Have?

While most roofing types are compatible with residential solar power, some require additional considerations. Asphalt shingles are the most common and straightforward for mounting panels, while materials like slate, clay tile, and metal may involve different mounting systems or additional labor.

With experience installing solar panels on all major roofing materials, O’Donnell Solar Co ensures that your system is mounted correctly and securely — no matter what your roof is made of.

What If My Roof Isn’t Ready?

If your roof needs work, it’s better to address it before the panels go on. We frequently help homeowners coordinate roof replacements ahead of a solar project to avoid costly rework later. In some cases, we may recommend an alternative solution, such as a ground-mounted system or partial roof install, depending on your goals and available space.

O’Donnell Solar Co works closely with trusted roofing partners throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania, and we can help manage the full project to keep things on schedule and within budget.

How O’Donnell Solar Co Supports You Every Step of the Way

One of the biggest advantages of working with a local solar provider is our hands-on approach. We don’t just sell solar panels — we build custom energy systems based on your home’s needs, your goals, and the condition of your property.

When you work with O’Donnell Solar Co, your solar panel installation starts with a comprehensive roof inspection, shade analysis, and structural review. We’ll tell you upfront if your roof is ready, and if it’s not, we’ll help you get it there — with no surprises and no shortcuts.

Ready to Go Solar? Let’s Start with the Roof

Making the switch to home solar electricity is a smart move — but only if your roof is ready to support it for the long haul. At O’Donnell Solar Co, we make sure every installation starts with a strong foundation so you can enjoy reliable, cost-saving solar energy for decades to come.

Contact us today to schedule your free solar consultation and find out if your roof is ready for solar. We’ll provide a full evaluation and guide you through the next steps to a cleaner, more efficient energy future.