The Process of Switching to Solar: What to Expect

By now, you’ve probably heard about the financial and environmental benefits of solar energy. Maybe you’ve read that homeowners can save up to 100% on utility costs, or that switching to solar can minimize your carbon footprint and help your state reach its sustainability goals. But what does it take to reap the rewards of renewable energy? Join us as we discuss the solar panel installation process! 

Assessing Your Home’s Suitability for Solar

Before you can begin generating your own clean energy, it’s important to understand your home’s solar potential. 

The Importance of a Home Assessment

A rooftop solar array won’t interfere with your view or take up valuable recreational space in your yard, making it the go-to option for many homeowners. However, not every home is suitable for solar. A knowledgeable installation expert can assess your roof, your average energy consumption, and local conditions to determine if your home can support a solar panel system. The size, angle, and orientation of your roof will make a big difference in your production capacity. You’ll also need to consider your roof’s age and materials, as some are more compatible than others. 

Of course, rooftop solar isn’t the only way to make the switch. Ground-mounted solar arrays may offer greater production capacity with fewer limitations, as long as you have the space in your yard. A professional can help you determine your energy needs and design a customized setup for your unique specifications. 

Options If Your Home isn’t Suitable for Rooftop Solar

While on-site solar is the top choice for many homeowners, it isn’t always feasible. Community solar projects allow you to purchase a share of the energy generated by an array. These are good options for renters and homeowners whose properties aren’t ideal for an on-site system, offering access to renewable energy without the higher up-front costs of a private array. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to claim the tax incentives offered to homeowners who purchase a system, and you can’t rely on this energy to keep your lights on during a blackout. 

The Solar Panel Installation Process

Ready to learn more about the steps of going solar? Here’s a guide to get you started: 

Step-by-Step Solar Installation Process

Once your installation specialist has performed a comprehensive site assessment, it’s time to get down to business. On average, the solar panel installation process can be completed within three days. A crew will secure a racking system to your roof and mount the panels where they receive maximum sun exposure. Then, they will wire inverters to convert direct-current energy into usable alternating-current electricity and connect the system to your home’s electrical panel.

Ensuring a Minimally Disruptive Installation

Switching to solar shouldn’t disrupt your life, and a highly rated installation company will take steps to ensure a seamless transition. In addition to prioritizing customer satisfaction, they also obtain necessary permits beforehand, use protective materials to prevent roof damage, and follow safety protocols to protect your roof, your family, and their crews. They can schedule installation for a convenient time and work with you to minimize disruptions. 

Understanding Solar Warranties and Panel Efficiency

The solar panel installation process marks the beginning of a long-lasting journey in renewable energy. After all, your array should last 25+ years, so you’ll want to know what to expect in the decades to come. 

Types of Warranties for Peace of Mind

Every solar installation company is different, and we like to think the warranties offered by Solar Energy World set us apart from the competition. When you purchase a solar array from us, you can take advantage of our Triple-Platinum 30-Year Warranty, which includes a 30-year manufacturer’s warranty, a labor warranty on all service issues, and total umbrella coverage that’s fully transferable if you sell your home. We also offer a First-Year Energy Production Guarantee, which certifies your system will produce at least 90% of the estimated energy generation amount in the first year. If your array fails to meet these benchmarks, we’ll pay you double the difference in production! 

Reliability of Solar Panel Efficiency Over Time

Even top-of-the-line solar panels become less efficient over time, with an expected degradation rate of anywhere from 0.3% to 1% each year. Extreme weather, high temperatures, and improper maintenance can accelerate this process. To maximize the lifespan of your solar array and encourage enhanced efficiency, incorporate the following tasks into your home maintenance routine upon switching to solar:

• Regular inspections: Inspecting your array for cracks, discoloration, and mounting abnormalities may prevent performance issues and costly repairs. 
• Occasional cleaning: Keeping your panels free from dirt, pollen, and debris can support greater efficiency and performance. 
• Monitor performance: Monitoring your array’s performance will alert you to drops in energy production before they become major problems. 
• Professional maintenance: Every few years, schedule a professional inspection to ensure all components are working properly.

Financial Considerations for Going Solar

Switching to solar opens the door for significant savings. Here are the financial benefits you can expect: 

Financial Incentives and Affordability

While the upfront costs of solar energy can seem daunting, there are a number of measures in place to make these systems more affordable. Many reputable solar installation companies offer financing options, including $0-down power-purchase agreements, solar leases, and other arrangements. Remember, most people don’t pay cash for a residential solar array. Instead, they pay installments as they would when purchasing a vehicle. 

Solar companies aren’t the only entities offering financial incentives for switching to solar. You can also enjoy savings through federal and state-funded programs. Rebates like the Federal Solar Tax Credit reimburse homeowners up to 30% of initial installation costs for qualifying renewable energy systems. Various states offer clean energy grants, property tax exemptions, and other ways to save. 

Long-Term Savings with Solar Energy

Once you complete the solar panel installation process, you may notice a significant change in your monthly utility bills. In time, these ongoing savings will offset the costs of your solar installation. The average solar array pays for itself within 10 years. Considering that most solar panel systems keep generating energy for 25 years or more, you can enjoy major savings throughout the lifespan of your array. In fact, many homeowners see a return on investment of 500% in the first 20 years of green energy production. 

Learn more about the benefits of switching to solar energy!

Addressing Questions and Concerns Before Installation

Switching to solar is a big investment, so you’ll want to verify the qualifications of your solar installer and the long-term benefits you can enjoy beyond financial savings. 

Communicating with a Trusted Solar Provider

Your chosen solar installer will make a big difference in the quality, output, and lifespan of your array. These professionals should have a verifiable track record in your area and be able to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of local regulations and financial incentives. When selecting a company, prepare to ask the following questions to determine whether they meet your expectations:

• How long have you been in business, and can you provide references?
• Who handles permits, inspections, and utility approvals?
• What financing options and warranties do you offer?
• Will you help me apply for rebates, tax credits, and other financial incentives? 
• How much will I pay for a solar installation? 
• How long is the solar panel installation process? 
• What can I expect during installation? 

Understanding Energy Independence and Sustainability

Renewable energy is about more than financial incentives—although that extra cash is certainly a major draw for many homeowners! Solar also presents the opportunity for enhanced sustainability and a smaller carbon footprint. As you generate your own clean electricity, you’ll reduce your reliance on the grid and minimize dependence on fossil fuels. If you participate in net metering through your utility company, you’ll also help cut your community’s use of non-renewable resources by sending surplus green energy back to the grid. 

These actions can positively impact the planet and your local community, helping conserve natural resources, decrease air pollution, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

Learn More About Switching to Solar with Solar Energy World

Switching to solar is easier than ever with Solar Energy World! Our knowledgeable installation experts can help you design the perfect array for your household, navigate the rebate process, and maintain your system for decades to come. Get started today with a free solar estimate!
Want to learn more about your home’s energy potential? Get a free solar estimate today!