5 Considerations Before Signing a Home Solar System Contract

The prospect of going solar can be very exciting. Imagine the cost savings with little or no monthly electric bill. However, before you get started, it’s important to think carefully about some considerations that can impact the efficiency and value of a system.

1. Your Landscaping

It’s a given that solar panels require direct sunlight. So, take a close look around your home. If you have considerable shading from trees, you will have to determine the effectiveness of solar panels. A qualified solar contractor can help you determine the best location for panels based on your landscaping and position of your home.

2. Your Home’s Efficiency

Before you consider solar panels, it’s a wise idea to correct inefficiencies like leaky air ducts, unsealed, single-pane windows, aging HVAC systems and more. With a home energy audit, inefficiencies can be revealed and then corrected so that you can maximize the value of any home solar system.

3. The Condition of Your Roof

If your roof is hitting the end of the road, so to speak, you will want to replace or repair it prior to the installation of a home solar system. If you may be replacing your roof in the next several years, you’ll want to carefully consider the cost of removing panels to make way for roof work versus waiting and getting the repairs done first.

4. Your Time in Your Home

Are you staying in your home for decades? Or, are you considering a move in the next year or two? This factors into whether or not you should go solar. Yes, solar does add value to any home, however you may not necessarily get dollar for dollar in a resale of a system. Thus, it’s a wise financial decision to choose solar when you know you can benefit from at least a few years of energy savings to increase your return on investment.

5. Your HOA Regulations

According to Arizona statutes, no homeowners’ association can prevent solar installations. However, they can restrict some of the visual aspects of the installation. So, it’s a good idea to discuss any future plans of a solar installation with your HOA before you sign a contract.

Want to learn more about the advantages of a home solar system? Contact the experts at Cool Blew Solar today.

FAQ's

Is Solar Energy Expensive?

The size of your panel installation and the needs of your home will affect your costs. The average net cost of a 5.69kW system is $13,838 cash after 30% rebate (according to solar-estimate.org). An average-sized system can cost up to $35,000. Larger installations will require more hardware, planning and construction time. This can further increase costs. While solar panels are expensive, they have many distinct benefits. Cool Blew Electric & Solar’s experts can assess your situation and goals and recommend a cost-effective system to meet your needs.

How Much Can I Save By Installing Solar Panels?

An average-sized system (5 kilowatts) can reduce up to 50% of your monthly electricity bill. A 5.69kW system would offset 100% of your energy usage if your typical monthly bill is $138. Over a period of 20 years, these savings can add up to $30,000, based on your location and energy usage.

How Long Would It Take to Recoup My Solar Investment by Solar Energy Savings?

With a 5.69kW Solar system you would recoup your savings in 7 years and 2 months but with continuous Utility increases every year your Return and Investment will be much sooner.

What is a Solar Lease Program?

The Solar Lease Program has been one the most popular option that homeowners have chosen over the years. Solar Lease programs gives homeowners the opportunity to take advantage and put Solar on their homes and a guaranteed savings from their Utility for little to no money out of pocket. Most Leases are 20 year power guarantee from the solar provider and includes fixed monthly payments, no repair cost, fully insured and warrantied for the life of the system.

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