Are you ready to go solar? The first step involves scheduling a solar consultation. A provider will visit your home, assess your solar needs, and discuss financing, design, permits, approvals, and installation with you.

Homeowners should prepare for a solar consultation by familiarizing themselves with their solar needs. Doing so will ensure that the consultant takes a transparent and honest approach. It will help them determine if they are working with a provider that supports their energy needs.

What Does a Solar Consultation Involve?

During a consultation, a consultant will come to your home and determine the following:

• Site Assessment: The consultant will evaluate your property, including the roof orientation and shading, as well as the available space for your solar panels. They may conduct a solar resource assessment to determine the amount of solar your property receives.

• Energy Needs Analysis: The representative will review your home's electricity bill and other relevant factors to assess your energy usage and determine your specific energy needs.

• System Design: The consultant may begin the design assessment by recommending the number and size of the required panels. They may also make recommendations on the inverter and other system components.

• Financing and Incentives: The representative will discuss your financing options and money-saving incentives.

• Permits and Approvals: You will learn which permits and approvals are required for the installation. The consultant may estimate the cost of these approvals and the time required for them.

You may receive an estimate during your consultation, or it may come later. Once approved, the provider will follow up with a design. They will proceed with the installation, activation, and inspections if all goes well.

What You Should Know Before Your Solar Consultation

Energy Use

Homeowners should understand their energy usage before installing solar panels. This evaluation will help you determine whether solar energy is worthwhile. It will also ensure your numbers match the provider's numbers, backing an honest approach.

To understand your energy use, review your energy usage for the past year to determine your average monthly consumption. You should also identify the time of day and year when your consumption is highest. This information will guide your system sizing and battery storage needs.

Roof Suitability

Your roof's condition has an impact on your solar preparedness. Here are some things to consider.

• Roof Age and Condition: If your roof is not in good condition, it won't support your panels. Additionally, if the roof needs replacement within the next 25 years, you may want to address it sooner rather than later. Once the panels are installed, replacement will not be possible.

• Roof Orientation: South-facing roofs catch the most sunlight, making them ideal for solar production. However, east and west-facing roofs can also be viable options, especially if you use most of your energy in the morning or afternoon. They can also be more effective when paired with a battery. North-facing roofs generate significantly less power than south-facing roofs, but can be a good option, especially if you can use a south-facing roof for additional power generation.

• Shading: Shading on your roof can impact your panels' ability to generate energy. If a tree obstructs your roof, trimming may be required before installation. Unmovable obstructions may mean solar is not worth your while.

• Roof Type and Material: Certain roof types are not compatible with solar panels. Others will require special treatments to make them solar-ready. Shingle, tile, wood, thatched, and metal roofs can be problematic.

• Angle: Flat roofs are not great for solar because they will not optimize sun absorption. However, you may include tilting and tracking features to ensure the panels attract sunlight.

Don't let a problematic roof stop you from scheduling a solar orientation. The provider should be able to recommend solutions, such as a replacement or specialized installation, to address the issue. Many work with roofers or provide roofing services to get you solar-ready.

Finances

There are several aspects of finances to consider before a consultation, including the following:

• Financing: Many installers provide financing options that make solar more affordable. Financing may be a good idea because it allows you to start solar, often with no down payment. However, interest rates can add to expenses.

• Buy or Lease: You may also consider leasing your panels rather than buying them. Leasing can be more affordable, allowing you to pay a fixed monthly rate for solar energy. However, you will be unable to take advantage of incentives.

• Incentives: Governments, other agencies, and organizations may offer incentives that allow you to save money on your solar panels. The most popular are:

1. The residential clean energy credit will enable you to reduce your tax bill by 30% of the installation's value.

2. Net metering will allow you to sell clean, unused energy to your utility company, earning a credit on your energy bill.

3. Tax exemptions mean you can buy your system tax-free or be excused from paying additional property taxes for the value your system adds to your home.

4. Other state credits and rebates

5. ROI: Determine how much money you can save on energy use and when you expect to see returns.

What to Ask Your Solar Installer

There are also some key questions to ask your solar installer in advance, such as:

• Do you offer any warranties and guarantees? Warranties and guarantees can save you money on repair, maintenance, and replacement costs. Ensure your installer provides extensive warranties and guarantees that ensure optimal service in the event of an issue.

• What type of equipment do you install? Select a provider that utilizes high-quality equipment to ensure optimal efficiency.

• What's included in your service? Many installers offer additional services, such as roofing, tree trimming, battery installation, and EV charger installation. Work with a provider that provides the services you require.

• Company Reputation: Determine the company's longevity and review its online reputation. Your chosen provider should have a long history of providing excellent service to their community.

• What is your installation process? Inquire to learn how long installation takes and what’s involved. 

Get multiple quotes and choose the provider that offers the best value for your money.

Solar America Can You Help You Find the Ideal Provider for Your Needs

Finding the right installer can be a challenging task. Solar America makes it easy.

Fill out our contact form to receive a list of providers in your area. Select the option that best suits your needs. Our competitive system ensures the lowest prices.

Contact us to ensure a smooth solar transition.