Frequently Asked Questions
The process before installation can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, and can include several steps such as HOA approval, permitting, inspections, and utility approval. The installation itself can be completed in as little as a few hours with large installations taking up to a few days. Most installations take less than a day.
We won’t ask you to swing a hammer, but we do ask that someone over the age of 18 be present for the installation. Your installers will also appreciate it if dogs and other pets are kept clear from their work area so they can focus on providing you the best service possible without distraction.
Because there are no moving parts, solar panels don’t require routine maintenance. In the rare case that a panel becomes defective, most manufacturer’s will replace the panel under their warranty.
Roof leaks are extremely rare, however, if there is a roof leak caused by your solar system, our workmanship warranty covers repairs for issues like this at no cost to you.
Most roofing companies are familiar with solar and will work with your installer to schedule the removal of your panels so roof work can begin. Once the new roof is installed, the solar company will again be called out to re-install your solar panels for a minimal fee.
Potential buyers would rather purchase a home that doesn’t have an electric bill and they’d be willing to pay more for it, that’s common sense. Real estate transaction data has shown that homes with solar typically sell faster and for a higher price than equivalent homes without solar.
While it is possible to add batteries or additional panels later, it’s typically less expensive to have everything completed at the initial installation because it’s less labor intensive and you won’t need to worry about upgrading your inverter.
Because your system is tied to the electrical grid, it’s designed with an automatic kill switch to ensure no electricity can flow from your panels into the grid, making it safe for electrical workers to troubleshoot and repair utility equipment when the power goes out. If you add backup batteries, you’ll still be able to power essential appliances and lights in your home in the event of a power outage.
There are now apps available that allow you to monitor your system’s production! Ask your consultant for more details.
If you sell your home before your solar loan is paid off or your PPA contract is over, your lender can help you transfer the balance of the agreement to the new homeowner. Another option is to add the value of the balance of your solar agreement to the asking price of your home and use the proceeds of the transaction to pay the system off.
Almost all insurance companies have solar panel coverage that can easily be added to your policy.
Many utility companies include minimum fees and surcharges on your bill that are not related to your energy consumption. In those areas, these fixed fees will still show up on your utility bill even if your panels produce 100% of the energy you use.