Were you aware that getting a residential solar system installed in your home is one of the most effective ways of lowering your utility bills?
It also helps if you’re aware of the questions to ask your solar technician to get all your concerns answered. Knowing the answers ahead of time will give you a better idea of what to expect.
So what are the important questions to ask about residential solar systems? We’ve got the top questions below. Keep reading to find out more!
1. Questions About Money?
When it comes to residential solar systems and questions about money, there are many important questions to ask. First, what is the simplest, most cost-effective system that meets your needs? What are the upfront costs for solar equipment, solar installation, and other related costs such as batteries, wiring, and maintenance?
Are there any financing options available? Would you benefit from leasing or buying a photovoltaic system? What is the payback period? Are there any additional solar energy system costs that are not included in the price of the system? How much will electricity prices be likely to rise over time?
2. What Rebates and Incentives Are Available to Me?
When considering installing a residential solar system, it is important to ask about rebates and incentives available to you. Depending on your location, you may be eligible for government and local incentives such as direct cash rebates, tax credits, or zero-interest loans.
Additionally, installing a solar energy system may entitle you to utility and energy efficiency incentives. Finally, look into whether your state offers tax incentives or renewable energy credits that you may be able to trade, sell, or exchange on the open market.
3. How Long Have You Been Around?
When looking to have a residential solar system installed, a very important question to ask is: How long have you been around? With the number of solar providers increasing drastically, doing your due diligence about a company’s experience is essential.
You need to make sure that the provider you choose has been providing solar solutions for at least a few years, as this will give you peace of mind that their services, team, and products are of industry-leading quality. An experienced and reliable solar provider will have a proven track record and an extensive list of successful projects that demonstrate the quality of their work.
4. Who Will Service and Maintain My Solar System?
When considering the installation of residential solar systems, it is important to ask, “Who will service and maintain my solar system?” This question is important because solar systems can require routine maintenance and servicing to ensure it runs optimally and functions for the expected amount of time.
Solar energy companies should provide reliable, comprehensive maintenance and repair services for your solar system. Ask about the kind of maintenance and repair schedule recommended, as well as any warranties offered.
5. What Is the Estimated Solar Electricity Production in the Best and Worst Months of the Year?
Understanding the differences in the amount of electricity produced by the solar system during the different months of the year is an important question to ask when considering residential solar systems. Before investing in the technology, it’s smart to have an estimate of solar electricity production in the best and worst months of the year.
The best months are often when there is the most sun, with temperatures that allow solar panels to gather energy efficiently. On the contrary, the worst months may be when temperatures drop and there is less exposure to the sun, resulting in lowered production.
6. Are They Experienced in Installing Solar?
It is important to ask about the experience of any residential solar companies. This is especially true when considering a company to install a solar system for you, as inexperienced installers may not be knowledgeable enough to properly assess and analyze the specific needs of your property.
Questions like how long the company has been installing systems and what types of residential solar systems they are familiar with are key in finding out their level of expertise in the field. Additionally, it is wise to inquire about the company’s track record in terms of prior installations they’ve done and customer feedback they have received.
7. What Are the Responsibilities of Each Party?
When it comes to the responsibilities of each party in a residential solar system, it is important to ask the following questions: Who will be responsible for the design, permitting, and installation of the system? Who will be responsible for gaining any approvals needed to operate the system?
Will there be any maintenance or follow-up inspections needed? Is the installer obligated to provide any kind of warranty for the equipment or labor? Who will be responsible for monitoring the system’s operating performance post-installation?
How often will performance data be collected and/or reported? Who will provide any additional training needed for the proper use and operation of the system?
8. Who Is Responsible for Your Meter Change?
One of the important questions to ask about residential solar systems is who is responsible for your meter change. Individually owned solar systems account for a small portion of the overall electricity grid’s power generation, and they require a meter change to allow them to “push power” back into the grid after supplying the home with the electricity it needs.
Generally, the local utility is responsible for providing the meter, waiving any fees it may charge. It is important to research the specifics of your particular situation to understand who will cover the cost of the meter change because if the homeowner is responsible, it can be a significant expense.
9. Do You Have a Detailed Handover Manual?
When exploring the possibility of installing a residential solar system, it is important to ask the installer for a detailed handover manual. This will ensure the consumer remains informed of their system operation and any safety measures that need to be taken in order to prevent any serious damage.
The handover manual should contain information regarding the care and maintenance of the system, potential problems with the system, and what to do if something goes wrong. It should also include information on how to use the system and how to monitor electricity production from the solar panels.
10. Do You Offer an Installation Warranty?
When looking into a residential solar system, one of the most important questions to ask is if the company offers an installation warranty on the system. An installation warranty is important to ensure that any installation errors are taken care of without having to foot the bill.
It can also provide peace of mind that the system has been installed correctly the first time. After all, it’s a significant investment, and people should have the assurance that the system is up to standard and won’t break down or require re-installation.
11. Who Manufactures the Panels You Install?
When considering a residential solar system, it is essential to confirm who manufactures the panels you will be installing. By asking this important question, you gain an understanding of the quality and reliability of the products you are investing in.
The answer should provide an assurance that the residential solar system you are buying is top-notch, dependable, and efficient. Additionally, understanding the manufacturer of the panels allows you to learn the company’s values, warranties, and customer service commitments.
Lastly, accessing original equipment manufacture (OEM) support, should you need repairs and maintenance, makes it a little easier when any issues arise. Therefore, asking who manufactures the panels you intend to install is an invaluable question when shopping for a residential solar system.
12. Is the Company a Clean Energy Council Approved Retailer?
When considering the purchase and installation of a residential solar system, it’s important to inquire about whether the company is a Clean Energy Council (CEC) approved retailer. The CEC sets standards for quality, safety, and performance for both residential and commercial-scale solar power systems.
Therefore, retailers who have achieved CEC approval meet the standards for quality products as well as reliable and professional solar system installations. Questions to ask include whether the retailer has a valid CEC approval number, how long they have been approved, and whether they have additional qualifications or certifications.
To learn more about this, check Blue Raven Solar.
Learn More About Residential Solar Systems
Residential solar systems can help homeowners save on energy costs and contribute to environmental sustainability.
Through learning about all of the important questions to ask, homeowners can better understand and make an informed decision on their unique solar system needs.
Evaluate your options, ask questions, and start creating a sustainable future with residential solar systems today.
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