FAQ FOR HOMEOWNERS

The benefits of solar energy include significant savings on your electricity bills as solar can offset much of your household’s electricity needs. It can increase your property value, as homes with solar panels often sell quicker and at a higher price. It reduces your carbon footprint, helping you contribute to a greener environment. You might also be eligible for tax credits and other incentives.

Solar energy works through a process called the photovoltaic effect. Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells that absorb sunlight. This sunlight excites the electrons in the cells, causing them to move and create an electric current. This direct current (DC) is converted to alternating current (AC) via an inverter for household use. Any excess energy can be stored in a battery or fed back into the grid.

If you have a battery storage system linked to your solar panels, you will have electricity during a power outage. However, if you don’t have a battery system and are only grid-tied, your solar system will automatically shut down in a power outage for safety reasons.

The cost of a solar energy system can vary significantly based on several factors including the size of the system, your location, and the type of equipment used. On average, a residential solar system may range from $12,000 to $25,000 before incentives. However, this can pay off in the long run with reduced electricity costs.

There are various ways to pay for your solar system. You can make an outright cash purchase, which often yields the highest long-term savings. Alternatively, you can take advantage of solar loans which have competitive interest rates which typically require little to no upfront costs.

Yes, over time your solar system can pay for itself. The savings from your electricity bill, combined with federal tax credits and other incentives, can help recover the initial investment. The time it takes to reach this ‘break-even point’ can range from 5 to 10 years, depending on various factors.

How much you save on your electric bills with solar depends on several factors, including the size of your solar panel system, the amount of sunlight your location receives, and your household’s electricity usage. However, on average, solar can help most homeowners save between 50% to 90% on their electric bills.

The solar energy produced by your system is first used to power your home. If your system produces more energy than you consume, the excess energy is either sent back to the grid if you have a grid-tied system or stored in a battery if you have a battery storage system. This stored energy can be used when your panels aren’t producing electricity, like at night.

Installing solar panels at your home involves a multi-step process. It starts with an initial site evaluation and quotation, followed by system design to suit your specific energy needs. Then there is the permit process, followed by the physical installation of the panels. Once installed, the system must be inspected and approved by a local official before it’s finally activated.

Several factors determine if your roof is suitable for solar panels. These include the orientation and tilt of your roof, amount of daily sunlight, size of the roof, and its structural soundness. Our survey experts will be able to assess these factors and determine if solar panels would be a good fit for your home.

The number of panels you need depends on your energy usage and the amount of sun your property receives. As an example, if you require a 5kW solar system and you choose 250W panels, you would need 20 panels. Our solar experts will calculate the exact number based on your specific circumstances.

From the initial consultation to the final installation, getting solar installed usually takes between 1 to 3 months. This timeline includes time for consultation, design, permitting, installation, and inspection. However, this can vary depending on your installer, local permitting authorities, and your utility company.

Most solar panel systems are designed to last between 25 to 30 years. However, even after this period, they can still produce electricity, although their efficiency may decrease slightly. Proper maintenance and care can help extend the life of your solar system beyond the estimated lifespan.

Solar systems require minimal maintenance, as they have no moving parts. However, regular cleaning to remove dust and debris, and occasional inspections to ensure everything is functioning properly, can help keep your system running at peak efficiency. Your solar provider can assist with setting up a maintenance schedule.

A good solar company will have a strong reputation with positive reviews and testimonials from previous customers. They should hold proper licensing and insurance, and offer comprehensive warranties. They should provide transparent pricing and be able to guide you through the entire process, from the initial consultation to installation and aftercare.

Installing solar panels can increase your home’s value. According to several studies, homes with solar energy systems sell faster and at a higher price compared to those without. If you move, you can either transfer the solar lease/PPA to the new owner, or purchase the system outright to be included in the sale of your home.

Read our blog post on How Solar Increases California Property Values for more details.

While solar can increase your home’s value.  In California, solar energy systems are exempt from property taxes. This means your property taxes won’t increase despite the increased value of your home.

Whether your Homeowners Association (HOA) needs to approve your solar project depends on the rules set by the HOA. However, many states have laws that prevent HOAs from prohibiting solar panel installations. It’s best to check with your HOA and local regulations.