SOLAR GRATES: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What savings can I get if only a few windows receive Grates? A: It's a game of depth and area. Fewer windows covered means reduced savings. Not to worry. Develop a plan for which windows are candidates (for whatever reason) and which not. Leave the Grates in place during the cooling season. Notice the results on your Utility bills.
Q: Do you gaurantee energy savings and economic payback? A: No. You can prove to yourself the Grates work by holding an egg crate between your skin and the sun. Vary the angle. You'll feel the heat blocking effect. A gaurantee would have to deal with thermometer settings, whether the Grates are installed, other electricity usages, weather, et al. Most of this is in the control of the building owner.
Q: How much trouble is it to install and remove the Grates seasonally? A: If a convenient mounting method such as "L" screws or Pop-in design are used, it will take longer to get the Grate to the window than it takes to mount it.
Q: Why are solar screens mounted permanently whereas Grates are seasonal? A: Either can be mounted permanently or seasonally. Grates mount seasonally to optimize energy performance. Screens mount permanently where there are concerns with the effort or with the risk of wrinkling.
Q: Do I have to adjust the Grates as the season progresses? A: No. Just install and forget until it's time for seasonal storage.
Q: Does the Grate have to cover the whole window? A: No. A partial mount (as long as it's secure) can customize the application for savings and the view.
Q: What good is it to install a Grate in front of a solid surface? A: To block infrared heat gain. Consider a wooden door in broad sunlight. The door might heat to 130F and with R value of the door at 1-2, a huge heat gain might be visiting the building. A Grate can moderate that gain.