Thinking about going solar in Martha’s Vineyard? Excellent choice! At Farley Built, we understand you have questions, and we’re here to provide clear, honest answers. Here are some common questions we get about residential solar panels so let’s dive in:
1. What are the upfront costs and potential savings of installing solar panels on my home?
The upfront cost varies based on your home’s size, energy needs, and the type of system you choose. However, with federal tax credits, state incentives, and potential utility rebates, the initial investment is significantly reduced. Plus, the long-term savings on your electricity bills can be substantial, often paying for the system over time. We’ll provide a personalized estimate to help you understand the financial picture.
2. How long does it take to install solar panels, and will it disrupt my daily life?
Typically, a solar panel installation itself takes a few days. Our experienced team at Farley Built works efficiently to minimize disruption to your daily routine. We’ll communicate clearly throughout the process so you know what to expect. Keep in mind however that there are other things that may need to get handled such as permits, engineering doc. preparation, reinforcement and so on. You will get a timeline with your project once we review your home.
3. Will solar panels work effectively in Martha’s Vineyard’s climate, considering the weather patterns and potential shading issues?
Absolutely! While Martha’s Vineyard experiences its share of cloudy days, solar panels still perform admirably. Modern panels are designed to capture sunlight even in less-than-ideal conditions. We’ll assess your property for shading and design a system optimized for maximum energy production.
4. What kind of maintenance do solar panels require, and how long will they last?
Solar panels are remarkably low-maintenance. Occasional cleaning and visual inspections are usually all that’s needed. With proper care, they can last up 25 years or more, providing clean energy for decades.
5. Will solar panels work in a power outage?
This depends on the type of system you have. Grid-tied systems, the most common type, typically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons. However, if you have a battery backup system, you can continue to power essential appliances during an outage. We can discuss the best option for your needs and yes, we do offer battery systems!
6. Will my home’s roof be suitable for solar panel installation, and what if I need a roof replacement in the future?
We’ll conduct a thorough roof assessment to ensure it’s structurally sound and has adequate space for panels. If you anticipate a roof replacement soon, it’s often wise to do that first. However, if your roof is in good condition, panels can be installed, and we can carefully remove and reinstall them if a roof replacement becomes necessary down the line.
7. How will solar panels affect my home’s appearance, and are there any aesthetic options available?
Today’s solar panels are sleek and discreet. We’ll work with you to choose a placement and panel style that complements your home’s architecture.
8. Can I still use electricity from the grid if my solar panels don’t generate enough power, and what happens to any excess energy I produce?
Yes, you’ll remain connected to the grid. On cloudy days or at night, you’ll draw power from the grid as usual. With net metering, any excess energy your panels produce is sent back to the grid, earning you credits that offset your energy costs.
9. What happens if I sell my home with solar panels installed, and will it increase the property value?
Studies show that solar panels can increase your home’s resale value. When you sell, the system can be transferred to the new owner, often making your property more attractive to buyers. Typically solar panels will not only pay themselves off and save you from having to pay a lot of electric bills, but they also increase your net value of your home!
10. Do my solar panels need to be bird proof?
Birds aren’t typically a major issue for solar panels.
Martha’s Vineyard Residents, Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact Farley Built today for a free consultation. We’ll assess your home, answer all your questions, and help you design a solar energy system that meets your needs and budget. Let’s harness the power of the sun together!