FAQs
Solar Installation FAQs - Answers to Your Common Solar Questions
Home Solar Energy FAQs
1. How long does a typical solar installation take from start to finish?
For most residential installations, SolarTech completes the actual panel mounting and electrical work in 1-3 days. However, the entire process from signing a contract to system activation typically takes 2-8 weeks. This timeline includes design, permitting, inspection, and utility approval phases. Factors that may extend this timeline include roof repairs, electrical panel upgrades, or local permitting backlogs. With over 13,000 successful installations since 2001, SolarTech’s in-house installation teams have streamlined the process to minimize disruption to your home and daily routine.
2. What roof types are suitable for solar panel installation?
Most common roofing materials are compatible with solar installation, including asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and even flat roofs. SolarTech’s installation teams are experienced with all major roofing types across California, Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado. Ideal roof conditions include south-facing orientation with minimal shading and a slope between 15-40 degrees, though east and west-facing roofs can also be effective. If your roof isn’t suitable due to age, shading, or structural concerns, SolarTech can discuss alternative options like ground-mounted systems or community solar programs that allow you to benefit from solar without installing panels on your property.
3. How much will a solar installation cost for my home?
The cost of your solar installation will depend on several factors including system size, equipment quality, roof complexity, and your location. While specific pricing requires a personalized assessment, SolarTech offers competitive rates with flexible financing options including solar loans, leases, and power purchase agreements to fit various budgets. Most customers can expect to see a return on investment through reduced utility bills, and may qualify for the federal solar investment tax credit, which currently provides a significant tax benefit. SolarTech also offers seasonal promotions (like their $1,500 back offer) and a referral program that rewards up to $750.
4. Will my solar panels work during a power outage?
Standard grid-tied solar systems will automatically shut down during power outages as a safety measure to protect utility workers. However, SolarTech offers battery storage solutions like the Tesla Powerwall that can provide backup power during outages. These systems store excess solar energy produced during the day for use when the grid is down or during evening hours. The amount of backup time depends on your battery capacity and energy usage. SolarTech’s design team can help determine the appropriate battery storage solution based on your critical power needs and budget considerations.
5. What maintenance is required for solar panels after installation?
Solar panel systems require minimal maintenance, which is one reason they’re such a reliable investment. SolarTech recommends occasional cleaning to remove dust and debris that might reduce efficiency, particularly in drier regions like Arizona. Most rainfall naturally cleans panels, but in areas with heavy pollen or dust, professional cleaning 1-2 times per year may be beneficial. SolarTech offers comprehensive maintenance plans that include regular inspections, cleaning, and performance monitoring. All systems come with manufacturer warranties (typically 25 years for production) and SolarTech stands behind their workmanship with dedicated service teams available for any issues that might arise.
Energy Storage Systems (Home Battery)
1. What are solar energy storage systems and how do they work?
Solar energy storage systems capture excess electricity generated by solar panels and store it for later use. These systems typically use battery technology (like lithium-ion batteries), though other methods include thermal storage, compressed air, and flywheels.
When your solar panels produce more electricity than you’re using, instead of sending it back to the grid, the energy is stored in your battery. Later, during the night or cloudy weather, you can draw electricity from your storage system instead of buying it from the utility company.
2. What are the main benefits of adding energy storage to my solar system?
Adding energy storage provides several benefits:
Backup power during grid outages
Increased energy independence
Reduced electricity bills through “peak shaving” (using stored energy when rates are high)
Smarter energy usage with SolarTech’s integrated systems
Some utility markets even offer extra incentives for optimized usage.
3. How much does a solar energy storage system cost?
Costs vary based on size, brand, and installation requirements. Most residential systems range from $8,000 to $15,000 installed. SolarTech offers flexible financing, seasonal promos (like $1,500 back), and up to $750 in referral incentives. Federal tax credits can also lower your final cost. The exact price depends on your energy needs and home setup.
4. How long do solar battery storage systems last?
Most systems come with a 10-year warranty and can last 10–15 years with proper care. Over time, battery capacity may reduce slightly. SolarTech offers maintenance programs to help maximize lifespan through performance checks and regular monitoring.
5. Can a solar energy storage system power my entire home during an outage?
Yes, with the right system size. SolarTech offers whole-home backup solutions designed to power essentials like lights, fridges, and HVAC systems.
During extended outages, solar panels can recharge your battery during the day. For homes with higher energy needs, multiple battery units can be added. SolarTech customizes recommendations based on your energy use and budget.
Roofing FAQs
1. How long does a typical solar roof installation take?
Most solar roof installations take approximately five to seven business days to complete, though this timeline can vary based on the size and complexity of your roof. At SolarTech, our experienced in-house installation teams work efficiently to minimize disruption to your home. After installation, there’s typically a waiting period for your utility company to provide permission to operate (PTO) before your system can be activated. Our team handles all permitting and utility approval processes to ensure a smooth transition to solar power.
2. What makes a roof suitable for solar installation?
Typically, solar panels perform best on south-facing roofs with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees, though other roof orientations can still be suitable. Before installation, SolarTech conducts a comprehensive site visit to assess your roof’s condition, size, and complexity. Important factors include the age of your roof, potential shading from trees or nearby structures, and your roof’s structural integrity. If your current roof needs replacement, this is an ideal time to consider a solar roof installation for maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
3. What is the process for installing a solar roof system?
The solar roof installation process begins with placing an order and scheduling a home energy assessment where we evaluate your roof and energy needs. After designing your custom system, we handle all permitting and utility approval processes. Once approved, our in-house installation team will remove your existing roof, install the solar roof system, and connect it to your home’s electrical system. Following installation, we conduct thorough testing and arrange for final inspections before system activation. Throughout the entire process, you’ll have a dedicated project manager to keep you informed.
4. How much does a solar roof installation cost?
The cost of a solar roof installation varies based on your roof’s size and complexity, your energy needs, and the specific solar system selected. SolarTech offers competitive, transparent pricing with multiple financing options to make solar accessible. We provide seasonal promotional offers (like our $1,500 back program) and a referral program that rewards up to $750. Most importantly, our customers typically see substantial reductions in their utility bills after installation, with the system often paying for itself over time through energy savings and potential increases in home value.
Leasing a solar energy system for your home will save you money on your monthly utility costs as well. While the savings are usually a little less attractive than owning solar panels, you’ll still save significantly over the traditional costs of electricity from the utility. Leasing carries several other advantages, including worry-free system performance for the length of the contract. That means any equipment maintenance or replacement, even after the product warranty expires, is the responsibility of the leasing companies.
Lease terms tend to be 20-25 years and often come with a production guarantee. For homeowners who cannot absorb the Federal Tax Credit, leases are an attractive option. A solar lease allows the third-party owner (TPO) to absorb the solar tax credit, then pass some of the savings on to the homeowner.
5. What warranties and maintenance are included with a solar roof installation?
SolarTech provides a comprehensive 25-year tile warranty on solar roof installations, covering both the solar-generating tiles and the non-solar portions of your roof. This includes protection against manufacturing defects and weather damage. Our systems also include manufacturer-backed warranties on components like inverters and battery storage.
After installation, we offer regular maintenance services including cleaning, performance monitoring, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal system performance.
Through the Tesla app or similar monitoring systems, you can track your energy production in real-time and receive alerts about system performance.
Solar Pool Heating FAQs
Solar pool heating systems work by circulating pool water through a solar collector where it’s warmed by the sun before returning to your pool. The system typically includes a solar collector (panels mounted on your roof or nearby ground), a filter to remove debris, a pump to circulate water, and a flow control valve. At SolarTech, we install complete systems with high-quality components that efficiently capture solar energy to maintain comfortable swimming temperatures. In warmer climates, the same system can even cool your pool during peak summer months by circulating water through the collectors at night.
A typical solar pool heating system costs between $2,500 and $4,000 to purchase and install, though prices may vary based on pool size, location, and specific system requirements. SolarTech offers competitive pricing with flexible financing options to make solar pool heating accessible. The investment typically provides a payback period of 1–7 years, depending on your local fuel costs and available solar resource. Solar pool heaters also generally last longer (10–20 years) than gas or heat pump pool heaters, making them a cost-effective long-term solution for pool heating.
Solar pool heating can work effectively in most regions, including SolarTech’s service areas across California, Arizona, Nevada, and Colorado. Even if you don’t live in a consistently sunny climate like the Southwest, your property may still have adequate solar resources for pool heating. Solar systems use both direct and diffuse solar radiation, making them viable in various climates. The key factors are having an unshaded area that generally faces south and properly sizing the system for your specific location. Our experienced team can perform a solar site analysis to determine if your property is suitable.
Solar pool heating systems require minimal maintenance when properly installed by SolarTech’s certified professionals. The most important factor is maintaining your pool’s chemical balance and regular filtering system checks. In dry climates, glazed collectors may occasionally need cleaning if rainwater doesn’t provide a natural rinse. With proper care, your solar pool heating system can operate efficiently for 10–20 years. SolarTech offers comprehensive maintenance services and support to ensure optimal system performance throughout its lifespan.
The solar collector size typically should equal 50–100% of your pool’s surface area, depending on your climate and desired swimming season. In cooler or cloudier regions, you may need a larger collector area relative to your pool size.
For example, a 15×30-foot pool in a warm climate like Southern California might require about 60–70% of the pool’s surface area in collectors for a 6–8 month swimming season. Using a pool cover can reduce the required collector size.
SolarTech’s experienced solar contractors will analyze factors like pool size, local climate, desired water temperature, and site conditions to recommend the optimal system size for your specific needs.
Solar Financing FAQs
SolarTech offers several financing options to make solar energy accessible. You can purchase your system outright with cash for maximum long-term savings, use a solar loan to own your system with little or no money down, or choose a solar lease/PPA where you pay a monthly fee for the power produced. Each option has different benefits – cash purchases provide the highest return on investment, loans balance affordability with ownership benefits, while leases require no maintenance responsibility. Our team will help determine which option best fits your financial situation and energy goals.
Solar loans from SolarTech allow you to own your solar system with little or no upfront cost. Typical loan terms range from 10-25 years with competitive interest rates between 2.99-5.99%. Most loans include a balloon payment option that allows you to apply your 30% federal tax credit toward the principal within 18 months of installation. Monthly loan payments are often structured to be less than your pre-solar electric bill, creating immediate positive cash flow. As a SolarTech customer, you’ll retain ownership of your system and qualify for valuable tax incentives and rebates.
The main difference is ownership. When you buy solar panels (either with cash or through a loan), you own the system, qualify for the 30% federal tax credit and other incentives, and typically see greater long-term savings. With SolarTech’s leasing option, we own and maintain the system while you pay a monthly fee to use the electricity it produces. Leasing requires no upfront costs or maintenance responsibilities but provides less long-term savings and doesn’t qualify for tax incentives. Buying is generally better for homeowners planning to stay in their homes long-term, while leasing may benefit those who want solar with zero upfront investment.
SolarTech believes in transparent pricing. With solar loans, be aware of potential dealer fees (sometimes called finance charges) which typically range from 20-40% of the system cost and are incorporated into the loan principal. These fees help secure lower interest rates. Solar leases may include annual payment escalators of 1-3%. All financing options include our comprehensive warranty coverage. Before signing any agreement, our team will clearly explain all costs, including potential balloon payments tied to the federal tax credit, and provide a detailed comparison of your financing options so there are no surprises.
When you own your solar panels through cash purchase or a loan, they typically increase your home’s value – studies show homes with solar sell faster and for more money. If you have a remaining loan balance when selling, you can either pay it off from the sale proceeds or, in some cases, transfer it to the new homeowner. Solar leases can be more complicated – the new buyer must qualify to take over the lease agreement, which some buyers may be reluctant to do. SolarTech’s team can help facilitate this process if you decide to sell, providing all necessary documentation and support to ensure a smooth transition.
Do you have more questions? Contact our solar experts
Contact the SolarTech team to help guide you in your solar journey.
