More and more homes around the state and country are adopting solar panels, claiming to save small fortunes after installation. Unsurprisingly, Arizona now ranks fifth for production in the country, and we’re still climbing to the top.
So, is it just hype, or is solar worth it? Luckily, you can find out with Simple Solar. Here are some important questions to ask solar companies before deciding if it’s right for you!
1. How Much Will I Save on Electricity?
While this widely depends on how much you already spend and the size of your system, you can get as close to $0 on your electric bill as possible with a solar setup.
Assuming you have the space for adequate panels, your utility company will have to pay you credits for excess energy accumulated, which will feed into the energy grid. Therefore, you could still have a near-zero energy bill even with limited production during the winter and the night when there’s no production.
Again, this depends on your available space, energy usage, and the kWh generated by your energy system. You’ll have to ask a professional to learn more about how much you can save.
2. How Much Will I Save on Installation?
Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, homeowners getting new solar system installations will receive up to 30% of all installation costs in the form of a tax credit. Therefore, if you owe $10,000 in taxes at the end of the year and purchase a $10,000 solar system, then you will only have to pay $7,000 in taxes. More any questions about tax credits? Read more HERE for further details. Unlike heat pumps and other green technologies, there’s no limit to the federal rebate on the setups!
On top of that, there are also state and local incentives depending on where you live. Here in Arizona, you will receive an additional tax credit of up to $1,000.
3. What If I Can’t Afford the Installation Costs?
If you can’t afford the upfront costs to install your solar system, that’s okay. There’s financing available that can mimic and even lower your current electric bill. This means you’ll have a consistent, low monthly bill and no surprises from increasing utility bills!
Moreover, once these payments are complete, you own the panels, and you can continue saving money for as long as they last. See if you qualify by checking out our financing and incentives guide!
4. Is My House Compatible with Solar?
This is an important question, as not all homes will work with solar panels. Depending on your electrical system and space, you may need to investigate other options.
However, this isn’t something obvious we would expect a homeowner to know off the tops of their heads. Make sure you ask a professional before going through with it. Otherwise, you may overspend on something you don’t need.
5. Do My Solar Panels Have a Warranty?
Not all solar array expansions come with a warranty, so this is a great question to ask before choosing a system. Solar panels last between 25 and 30 years on average, so you want to select a system that can stretch you through retirement or that you’ll pay off in time.
Also, consider what warranties are offered. Most installers only include a minimum workmanship warranty and only the manufacturer warranty. Simple Solar offers a complete bumper-to-bumper 25-year warranty on all workmanship and the major components, above and beyond the manufacturer’s warranty. So all systems sold and installed have two concurrent 25-Year warranties on the entire system.
Simple Solar has also partnered with Omnidian for a third layer of protection on all systems. Simple Solar has also pre-paid for this protection from Omnidian an additional layer of protection. We believe in “Solar Without Fear™” That’s why we’ve teamed up with the experts at Omnidian.
6. What Do I Need to Know About Maintenance
Maintenance is minimal, regardless of the type of system you have. Solar panels do not require a lot of upkeep.
However, they are on your roof, which is dangerous to play around on if you don’t know what you’re doing. Talk to your professional about the maintenance schedules of each system before deciding. Ideally, they should only require an annual inspection and cleaning, which the company should be able to provide!
Ask Questions About the Solar System
These are some of the most important questions to ask solar companies before deciding. Solar energy is a great way to save money on your electric bill and reduce your carbon emissions, but it still needs to make financial sense!
Keep reading our blog for our latest solar energy tips, and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or to schedule a consultation!
