Frequently Asked Questions
Are you considering solar power for your home but have a few questions? Check out the frequently asked questions homeowners typically have prior to making their decision to save money with solar energy. If you don’t find the question you have in the categories below, feel free to contact us for more information.
Solar Savings
How much will a solar system save me?
A solar system in Florida may save you tens of thousands of dollars, even if you don’t pay anything upfront. Harvesting your own energy simply costs less than buying the energy from your utility.
My roof doesn’t face south, can I still save money with solar?
Your home can still harvest plenty of energy even if your solar system faces East or West. This power can still be less expensive than utility power.
Will the utility company buy my solar excess energy?
You will get full credit for any additional energy your solar home harvests and sends to the utility grid. Meaning any excess units of energy you harvest today, can be used to offset units of energy in the future. This is called Net Metering.
Solar Incentives
Are there any solar incentives that help me go solar?
Yes. There is a Federal Renewable Energy Tax Credit for solar. It is a 26% tax credit. Meaning the tax credit equals 26% of the cost of the solar system. We’d be happy to show much money you can save by utilizing the tax credit. Here is a hint: it can save you thousands of dollars.
Solar Power
Can a solar system power my entire house?
Yes. Your solar home can provide the same amount of energy your home uses in a year. Not all houses are set up perfectly for this scenario. Even if you can get 60% of your energy at a discount, it would be worth it. The amount of power your system can produce will depend on: how much space is available, which direction the system will face, and the amount of shading. Let us figure out exactly how much energy your home can harvest.
My roof doesn’t face south, will my solar system still produce power?
Your home can still harvest plenty of energy even if your solar system faces East or West.
Can my solar system power my AC or Water Heater?
The system harvests energy to be used where ever your home needs it.
Can I use my solar power when the utility power goes out?
At this point rules and regulations require that the system shuts down during a utility power outage.
Solar Costs
How much does a solar system cost?
In Florida, a typical solar system costs you less than what you are already spending on energy each year. On a monthly basis, your system might cost you between $90 – $160 (that’s if you don’t want to pay anything upfront). The average upfront cost of a solar system is around $30,000. But it can be much less or more based on how much energy you’d like to harvest.
Can I finance (get a loan) for my solar system?
Absolutely. In fact, most solar systems are now financed with loans specifically designed for solar systems. This means you can pay nothing upfront, and simply pay less than you were paying the utility company. In fact, over time you can save 10’s of Thousand of Dollars!
Solar Installation
How long does it take to install a solar system?
The actual solar system installation takes 1 to 3 days. Although many homes only take one day. The whole process, decision to install, may take 2-6 weeks depending on municipality and utility company.
What if I need a new roof?
There are two answers for this question, depending on when you need a new roof.
If you know you need a new roof its best to put a roof on prior to installing the system.
If you already have a solar system and you need a new roof, the panels can be removed while a new roof is installed
Will my solar system work with my current electrical panel?
Many times, your electrical system doesn’t need to be upgraded. A solar assessment will determine if anything needs to be done. Even if an upgrade is needed, the savings are not significantly affected.
Solar Operation & Maintenance
How much maintenance does a solar system need?
Not much maintenance is needed on a solar system. The system generally operates on its own without any maintenance. During the lifetime of the system, the inverter may need to be changed out. If not covered by the basic warranty, an extended warranty can be bought to cover the equipment cost of the change out.
What if I need a new roof?
There are two answers for this question, depending on when you need a new roof.
If you know you need a new roof its best to put a roof on prior to installing the system.
If you already have a solar system and you need a new roof, the panels can be removed while a new roof is installed
How long do solar panels last?
The marketed “lifetime” of a solar panel is 25 years. However, the panels will often produce significant power after the initial 25 years. There are some solar panels that have lasted 30+ years. Check out this study by NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory)
How long is the warranty on the solar panels?
The warranty for solar panels (also called panels) lasts for 20 to 25 years.
Should I insure my system?
Adding solar to your home is a lot like adding any other major home improvement feature. And it would be wise to include your solar system in your home insurance. The cost is typically minimal. But it is important for any unforeseen / uncontrollable issues (think – kids playing baseball).
What if there is a hurricane?
Solar systems are engineered to meet all applicable hurricane and building codes. During a hurricane, if your power goes out, your system will shut down as required by rules and regulations (unless you have a backup battery system). If there is any damage to your system, your insurance should cover the costs.
Have another question?
We’re here to answer all of your solar energy questions. Fill out the form and send us a quick message with any questions you may still have and one of our solar energy experts will reach out and try and get all of the answers you need to make an informed, educated decision for you and your family.