When a homeowner with rooftop solar and home batteries turned to Tesla for advice on how to prepare the system for a termite fumigation, they received conflicting information. In response, they turned to the internet for answers.
Here's what to know
Posting in a Reddit thread, the homeowner explained that Tesla offered inconsistent instructions on how to handle a Vikane fumigation. The contradictory recommendations included "shut down the system," "just clean off the solar panels after," and "just turn off the Powerwalls."
Confused, the homeowner sought advice from those who had experienced a similar situation.
Commenters put the original poster's mind at ease. Many noted that tenting for termite fumigation usually does not require taking panels down or shutting off the system.
"Was fumigated about a year ago. Didn't shut off the solar or the Powerwalls," one user wrote.
One person offered a technical explanation.
"Vikane is sulfuryl fluoride and it doesn't attack glass, anodized aluminum, or the EPDM/silicone seals on modules or a Powerwall, so nothing needs to come off the roof and no post-tent panel washing is required beyond whatever dust the tarps leave," they explained. "The real risks are mechanical: tarps and ropes dragged across the array, and crews stepping on modules or mounting rails. Leaving the system running is fine."
Another commenter recommended that the homeowner check with the fumigation company, as they likely had dealt with similar situations before.
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The original poster replied that they had done so, and the company assured them that their workers had experience operating around solar equipment.
However, "for liability, they referred to Tesla, and Tesla refers to them," the homeowner lamented.
For homeowners looking to save on utility costs, solar is one of the best ways to save money on home energy. If you're considering a system, EnergySage can help you get free solar installation estimates and compare quotes.
What can be done?
For solar owners facing fumigation or other roof work, the most practical move is to get instructions in writing from both the contractor and solar provider and ask what steps the crew will take to avoid damaging equipment.
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Taking photos before and after such work can also be a good way to document damage.
With questions such as those facing the homeowner, home solar might seem complicated. However, free, easy-to-use tools from EnergySage can save customers up to $10,000 on a solar purchase and installation.
EnergySage's solar map shows the average cost of a home solar panel system by state along with details on incentives for each state, helping shoppers get the best price for rooftop solar panels.
Like the original poster, many homeowners have paired their solar panels with home batteries. Home batteries can protect your household against power outages, save you money on energy, and even allow your home to go off-grid. If you're comparing backup options, EnergySage also offers information about home battery storage choices, including competitive installation estimates.
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