Solar Installers Kettering

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Installers

How do I maintain my solar panels?

Solar panels require minimal maintenance. Here are some basic maintenance tasks:

• Keep Panels Clean: Clean panels periodically to remove dirt, debris, and bird droppings, which can reduce efficiency. Rainfall usually cleans panels adequately, but you might need to hose them down occasionally.
• Visual Inspections: Regularly inspect panels for signs of damage, loose wiring, or other issues.
• Professional Maintenance: Consider having a professional solar installer inspect your system every few years to ensure optimal performance.

How can I finance my solar panel installation?

Various financing options are available for solar panel installations:

• Cash Purchase: The most straightforward option, providing the greatest long-term savings but requiring a larger upfront investment.
• Solar Loans: Loans specifically designed for solar installations, often with favorable terms and interest rates.
• Solar Leases: A third-party company owns the system and leases it to you, allowing you to go solar with little or no upfront cost, but you won't own the system or receive tax benefits.
• Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Similar to leases, but you pay for the electricity generated by the system, not the system itself.
• Home Equity Loans or Lines of Credit: Borrow against the equity in your home.

The best financing option depends on your financial situation and goals. Consult with a solar installer and a financial advisor to determine the best choice for you.

Are there any financial incentives for going solar?

Yes, many governments and utilities offer financial incentives to encourage solar adoption, such as:

• Tax Credits: Reduce your income tax liability based on the cost of your solar system.
• Rebates: Direct cash payments or discounts on the purchase of a solar energy system.
• Net Metering: Allows you to sell excess solar electricity back to the grid for credits.
• Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs): Tradeable credits representing the environmental attributes of your solar energy generation.

The availability and specifics of incentives vary by location, so check with your local government and utility for details.

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells made of silicon. When sunlight hits a solar cell, it creates an electric current. Multiple cells are wired together to form a panel, and multiple panels can be combined to create a solar array.