Installing solar energy in your house or office is undoubtedly a big investment. So, it is important to find out a trustworthy as well as a cost-efficient company for your installation. While looking for the best solar plant you may think that what questions to ask a solar company about their prices and how can you be sure of their pricing is a considerable thought indeed.
A solar company might offer a fantastic product for the right price, but how do you know if it is reasonable or not! Before looking at solar companies and trying to determine which one has the best prices for solar systems, you can ask a few questions to get a better understanding. It’s also essential to estimate their prices accurately.
9 Important questions you should ask a solar company about their prices
It is difficult to be happy with the price of the solar system if you can’t determine how much it will allow you to save.
So let’s dive into deep.
1. Know the Cost Per Watt and How to Calculate?
Although there is no definitive answer to this question as the cost of installing solar energy will vary depending on many factors. That includes the size and type of system you install, the location of your property, and the prevailing market conditions.
However, as a general guide, the cost of installing solar energy is typically around $3-4 per watt. Make sure to get a quotation about the cost per watt to find out the total cost and how much it will save your pocket.
2. What is the Total Cost of the Solar System?
This is obviously the most critical question when it comes to price. Make sure to get a breakdown of all the costs associated with the system. Fulfill your every possible inquiry about installation, permits, and other fees.
There may be some hidden charge they might not mention you first. But at the time of installation or after the project is over, you may bear some extra charges, which will be very much annoying and can cross your budget. Try to write every cost in pen and paper to avoid the hassles.
3. What is the Average Payback Period for the Solar System?
This will give you an idea of how long it will take for the system to pay for itself. That will pretty much depend on the size and efficiency of the system, the cost of installation, and the amount of sunlight the location receives, the inverter they use and the electricity rates in the area. However, most solar energy systems will have a payback period of 5 to 10 years.
Some solar companies can also give you a payback period of 10 to 20 years. So, the price will be very much different in each project. You need to make a careful decision about the average cost of each project and then make the right decision.
4. What is the Warranty on the Solar System?
This will protect you in case anything goes wrong with the system. Briefly discuss if this solar system is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for a certain period from the date of purchase. If a defect appears during the warranty period, they will repair or replace the solar system at their discretion, free of charge or not.
5. What is the Expected Life of the Solar System?
This will give you an idea of how long you can expect the system to last. A solar panel is a long-term investment that will continue to generate electricity for 20-25 years with little to no maintenance.
Solar panels are made of tough, weather-resistant materials that can withstand the elements for many years. Additionally, the panels are designed to degrade in performance over time gradually, so you can expect them to last for two decades or more.
6. What Maintenance is Required for the Solar System?
This will help you understand what you need to do to keep the system running correctly. Typically, after your solar system is installed, very little maintenance is required. You should periodically check your system to ensure that all connections are secure and there is no visible damage to any of the components. Additionally, it would be best to clean your panels regularly to ensure optimal performance.
When you’re shopping around for a solar company, ask them to make sure that you have to spend extra money to maintain it, or you can do it yourself?
7. What is the Estimated Savings?
These questions will give you a good idea of the solar company’s prices and what you can expect in terms of savings and return on investment.
First, solar panels can help you save money on your electric bills. Solar panels are designed to absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity, which you can use to power your home. This means that you’ll be able to offset some of your electric costs with the electricity that your solar panels produce.
In addition, solar panels can also help you save money on your taxes. Many state and local governments offer tax incentives for homeowners who install solar panels. These incentives can help you recover some of the costs of installing solar, making it even more affordable.
8. Which Payment Method Do They Use?
The solar company offers several financing options to buy a solar panel from them. In addition, it will help you to make going solar more affordable. The options include a lease, a loan, and a power purchase agreement.
- You can lease a solar panel from the solar company, making monthly payments, but you won’t have to pay the total cost upfront.
- Or, you can take out a loan from the solar company, which will help you finance your solar panel purchase.
- Lastly, you can enter into a power purchase agreement with the solar company, which means you’ll pay for the electricity that your solar panel produces.
9. Can You Expand Your System in the Future?
You should discuss with your solar consultant if you think your electrical demand will increase in the future. Maybe your family members will increase, or you can buy an electric car, even you can heat your pool with solar panels Is there any option to expand your solar system? Because most of the time, it is planted based on current demand, like the size of the existing home and electricity use.
So, if you need more electricity in the future, will your solar system be able to provide it? Or you have to install the whole thing anew, talk about it.
Final Words
Solar energy is one of the most renewable and cleanest energy sources available, and it’s also one of the most cost-effective. In fact, switching to solar can help you save money in various ways. It is also good for the environment.
In addition, solar energy can also add value to your home. Homes with solar panels tend to sell for more than homes without them, so if you’re thinking about selling your home in the future, installing solar panels can make it more valuable. Overall, switching to solar energy is a great way to save money. Solar panels are relatively affordable, and they can help you save money on your electric bills, your taxes, and your home’s value. If you’re looking for a way to save money, switching to solar can be a great option.
