SolArmy Home

Almost all roofs can have solar panels installed on them, the biggest factor is the condition of the roof. Other factors such as Material, Pitch, Shape and Size, Orientation, and Amount of shade are also key.

Most states allow "net metering", which is when you produce more power than you consume, creating a surplus of energy that can be turned into credit. Excess power can, in some states, be sold back to utility companies as well.

Numerous studies have shown that purchasing a solar system will increase the value of your property. However, if you have your system installed under a solar lease/PPA agreement, it will most likely not increase your property value.

The primary maintenance includes cleaning and debridement of any buildup that has occurred. This should be done around every 6 months however many factors can come into play. Always read your manufacturer's literature on proper cleaning methods. Occasional repairs, which can range from replacing wires to fixing mounts, can occur. Always make sure to contact a licensed contractor for any of your repair needs.

The majority of solar companies claim that their solar panels will produce at a profitable efficiency for at least 25 years. Over time your solar panels will suffer from a slight degradation of about 0.8-1.2 percent per year of the original efficiency. The degradation is often caused by dirt, pollen, and other external factors, so it is important to remember to clean and maintain your panels.

Nearly every state now offers tax credits as an incentive for citizens to switch to solar power. Depending on where you live, you might be able to use tax credits to subsidize a large part of your solar installation.

Modern solar panel options currently available fit in one of three types: monocrystalline, polycrystalline (also known as multi-crystalline), and thin-film. These solar panels vary in how they’re constructed, appearance, performance level, costs, and the installations each are best suited for. These factors can help you determine which type of panel would best suit your installation needs.

The average home can save between $10,000 and $30,000 over the lifetime of your solar panel system. There are several key factors including the location of the home, cost of utilities, and power consumption.

This can be broken down into four main steps: Planning and Safety, Wiring and Electrical, Mounting Panels, and Solar Battery Installation.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory says a 2-kilowatt system, which should offset the electricity use of an average-sized home, estimates the system will cost about $8 to $10 per square foot ($16,000 to $20,000 total) before state and federal rebates and incentives.