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FAQ
Illuminating your solar journey with clear answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about solar energy solutions
Most homeowners save between 50-90% on their electricity bills after going solar. Exact savings depend on your energy usage, system size, local electricity rates, and available incentives. On average, our customers see a full return on investment within 5-8 years.
Modern solar panels typically last 25-30 years while still producing at least 80% of their original output. Most manufacturers offer 25-year performance warranties. The system will continue working beyond this period, just at slightly reduced efficiency.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during outages for safety. However, with a battery storage system or special hybrid inverter, you can maintain power during outages. We can design a system with backup capability based on your needs.
Most residential installations are completed in 1-3 days after permits are approved. The entire process from consultation to activation typically takes 4-8 weeks, depending on your location and utility company requirements. Commercial projects may take longer based on size and complexity.
Solar systems require minimal maintenance. We recommend occasional cleaning (especially in dusty areas) and annual inspections to ensure optimal performance. Most systems include monitoring software that alerts you to any issues. There are no moving parts, so wear and tear is minimal.
Properly installed solar panels actually protect the roof area they cover. Our mounting systems are waterproof and designed to preserve your roof's integrity. We conduct a thorough roof inspection before installation and recommend repairs if needed. If your roof needs replacement soon, we suggest doing that first.
Solar panels still produce 10-25% of their rated capacity on cloudy days. At night, your system will draw power from the grid (unless you have battery storage). With net metering, excess power you send to the grid during sunny hours offsets what you use at night.
Yes! We offer multiple financing options including solar loans (often with $0 down), lease agreements, and PPA (power purchase agreement) options. Many customers qualify for financing with monthly payments lower than their current electric bill, creating immediate savings.
The federal solar tax credit currently offers 30% of your system cost as a tax deduction. Many states and utilities offer additional rebates (like California's SGIP program). We provide a full incentive analysis during your consultation and handle all paperwork for available programs.
Most homes are solar candidates if they have unshaded south, east, or west-facing roof space. We use satellite imagery and advanced software to analyze your roof's solar potential during our free consultation. Even north-facing roofs can work in some cases with specialized mounting.
Monocrystalline panels (black) are more efficient (18-22%) and space-efficient but cost slightly more. Polycrystalline panels (blue) are less efficient (15-17%) but more affordable. We typically recommend monocrystalline for most residential installations due to their superior performance and aesthetics.
Yes, but off-grid systems require significant battery storage and are typically 2-3 times more expensive than grid-tied systems. We generally recommend staying grid-connected unless you're in a remote location. Hybrid systems offer a balance with backup power during outages.
Net metering credits you for excess solar energy sent to the grid. Your meter runs backward when producing more than you use, and forward when drawing from the grid. At billing time, you only pay for your "net" energy use. Most utilities offer 1:1 credit for each kWh exported.
Studies show homes with solar sell 20% faster and for 3-4% more than comparable homes without solar. If you have a solar loan, it can typically be transferred to the new homeowner or paid off at sale. Leased systems can be transferred to qualified buyers or bought out.
Yes! We provide: 1) 25-year manufacturer warranty on panels, 2) 10-25 year warranty on inverters, 3) 10-year workmanship warranty on installation, and 4) 10-year roof penetration warranty. Battery systems typically have 10-year warranties. We stand behind all our installations.
While DIY solar is possible, we strongly recommend professional installation. Solar systems involve high-voltage electricity, roof work, and complex permitting/inspection requirements. Our licensed installers ensure safety, maximize performance, and handle all paperwork - plus you maintain eligibility for incentives and warranties.
In most states, solar installations are exempt from property tax assessments. This means your property value increases from solar won't increase your property taxes. California (Prop 13) and many other states have specific exemptions for renewable energy improvements.
Solar panels offset 3-4 tons of CO2 emissions annually (equivalent to planting 100+ trees each year). Modern panels have a small carbon footprint (paid back in 1-3 years of operation) and are 95% recyclable. We partner with certified recycling programs for end-of-life panel disposal.
All our systems include real-time monitoring through user-friendly apps. You can track energy production, consumption, savings, and system health from your smartphone or computer. We also monitor your system remotely and proactively alert you to any performance issues.
As a local solar specialist, we offer: 1) Premium equipment with 25-year warranties, 2) In-house installation teams (no subcontractors), 3) Custom designs for each home, 4) Comprehensive post-install support, and 5) 10-year workmanship warranty. We're committed to quality over quantity and building long-term relationships with our customers.
