If you’re interested in home solar installation, you’ll want to first have an audit of your property. You’ll be asked for details about your roof, your garage roof and other available space. You’ll discuss your current energy usage, the age of your shingles and the availability of any incentives, if applicable.
If home solar is a good fit, the next step is to find out if that option is right for you. There are plenty of online resources that will help you determine if you’re a good candidate in addition to the home audit. For residents living in Minnesota, the Minnesota Solar Suitability Analysis app allows you to see how much sun your rooftop gets. Although less accurate, the app is easy to use—just enter an address in the search box or click the button to use your current location. You can even see existing installations and other features by clicking the layers button.
10 questions to ask
Still interested? To do your solar homework right, consider asking these questions to help you begin the conversation with a solar installer.
- What is the total cost of the solar system?
- What is your timeline for this investment
- What will the system look like once installed?
- Will my system be net metered?
- How much do I pay up front, and how much over time, for how long?
- How much electricity will the system generate each year?
- Are there any energy production guarantees that you offer?
- If there is a blackout, what will happen to my system?
- What do the warranties cover and what are their durations?
- Do I qualify for any tax credits or other incentives?
Consider solar power
If you’d like to know more about solar power for your home, contact your local solar installer for a free quote and to learn more about which type of solar installation is right for you.
Download our eBook, Home vs. Community Solar, to learn more about the major differences between owning your own solar panel system and joining a community solar garden—and which option is right for you!
