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Solar Facts & Questions
Here are some common questions we often recieve. If you have any other inquries feel free to contact us at 1-800-287-1672 or email us through our contact page.
01
Why should I invest in a solar electric system?
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- The ability to produce your own electricity for free
- It will fight global warming through reduced carbon dioxide emissions
- Tax credits reduce your overall costs, as well as other state and federal incentives
- The system offers protection against future rate hikes
- Equity in the home is increased, but the increase is not taxed
- Renewable energy credits are solar for additional revenue through your electric company
02
Will solar work efficiently in my area?

Yes, and it does so very well. We receive about 70% of the solar energy that sunny San Diego does due to our weather patterns. Our area receives about 4.5-4.9 watts per square meter of irradiance in our region. To put it another way, Germany is the world #1 producer of solar electricity, and it compares to Alaska in terms of solar irradiance. There is ample Solar Energy in all 50 states.
03
What direction must my roof face?
Southeast to Southwest facing roofs work best, but many East and West roofs can be utilized as well. A North roof can even be utilized if the tilt of the roof is minimal. We will evaluate your best option during your complimentary no-obligation in-home consultation.
04
If you install panels on my roof, will it leak?
Not if Solar Home does the job! We use the best flashing to ensure there will not be any roof or attic damage on your home.
05
What components are needed for a grid tie system?
The components of a grid tie system are: Panels, Utility Interactive Inverter, DPST – a locked disconnect switch that the utility company can clearly access and is labelled as such, and connections to the main AC panel and utility meter. All of our systems have free internet based system monitoring.
06
What components are needed for a battery backup system?
The components of a battery back up system are: Panels, PV Disconnect, Charge Controllers, DC Disconnect, Batteries, Intertie Inverter, 2 AC Disconnects, and an additional AC Sub Panel. These are connected to your main AC panel and utility meter. Recent improvement in this technolgy has simplified battery backup and lowered costs.
07
What size system do I need?
A comparison of roof space, available ground space and annual electricity expense by our solar consultant can help you determine what size system is right for you.
08
What happens when my system produces more electricity than I am using?
During the day when home electric use is lower excess electricity will flow back onto the grid and spin your meter backwards. The backward spinning of the meter is protected by a law called Net Metering and is the law in most states. Systems are sized so that you do not produce more energy than you consume, as credit is given only even with energy usage. (You cannot produce extra electricity and expect a check from the power company!)
09
What happens when my system produces more electricity than I am using?
During the day when home electric use is lower excess electricity will flow back onto the grid and spin your meter backwards. The backward spinning of the meter is protected by a law called Net Metering and is the law in most states. Systems are sized so that you do not produce more energy than you consume, as credit is given only even with energy usage. (You cannot produce extra electricity and expect a check from the power company!)
10
Do solar panels work when it is cloudy?
Yes, electricity is produced when it is cloudy, however they are most efficient in clear sunny conditions. Rainy days will lower their production, but definitely do not eliminate it.
11
Will my solar electric system operate during a power outage?
Grid tied systems stop producing power when the electric grid is down for safety reasons. If they didn’t, the repairman could be seriously harmed by your arrays production. Battery backup systems have a special system using a sub panel that allows you to continue producing and using power from your solar array - YES! We do build battery-back up systems.
12
How much space will I need?
Each 1,000 watts (1KW) of solar modules occupies about 100 square feet. A 6,000-watt system would need a 20’ x 30’ space (600sf) to accommodate it.
13
How long will it take to install the system?
Once you’ve signed a contract, you can expect a solar PV installation to take 30-60 days for hardware ordering/delivery, licensing/architectural paperwork, permitting, scheduling and commissioning/completion. The on site installation part of the process usually takes just 1-3 days.
14
Will my PV system increase the value of my home?
YES, and the increased value will not increase your property taxes. PV systems increase the value of the home by a factor of savings in your utility costs. An article in the Appraiser’s Journal estimated that for every $1,000 in annual operating costs reduced, a home’s value is increased by $20,000.
15
Will my PV system increase the value of my home?
YES, and the increased value will not increase your property taxes. PV systems increase the value of the home by a factor of savings in your utility costs. An article in the Appraiser’s Journal estimated that for every $1,000 in annual operating costs reduced, a home’s value is increased by $20,000.
How do I get started?
Give us a call at 1-800-287-1672 and a Solar Home Co. Associate will set up an appointment for an in-home assessment.