Author: Solar Bear

Solar ROI – Statistics and FAQs You Should Know

Solar energy is an excellent investment—one that can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. Although the installation cost for a solar energy system can appear daunting, the returns on investment (ROI) are impressive. Read on to understand some common questions regarding solar energy system ROI to help you make an informed decision about your energy options.

What Is the Typical Solar Panel Installation Cost?

According to a recent MoneyGeek study, the average cost for a 5 kW solar panel system is about $13,000, but new federal tax credits and state incentives could save you up to 39% on the total cost. With these credits and incentives, you could potentially purchase a solar panel system for a lower cost and enjoy the energy-saving benefits quicker.

Does Florida Have Any Incentives for Solar Panel Installation?

Yes, Florida offers incentives for solar energy installation. Specifically, the Federal Solar Tax Credit lets you deduct up to 26% of the solar installation cost from your federal taxes, and if you owe less than the credit amount, you could roll over the remaining amount for up to ten years. In Florida, the total savings could come to $3,406 for a $13,100 system, which is a considerable amount.

What Is the Expected Return on Investment for Solar Energy Systems?

Return on investment is another important consideration when it comes to solar energy installation. According to the same MoneyGeek study mentioned above, on average, solar energy system owners could see a 14.6% rate of return, and in states with higher electricity costs, more peak solar hours, and state incentives and net metering, returns can be as high as 20% or more. This means you could start seeing savings on your energy bill shortly after installing your solar panels, and these savings would continue well into the future.

Are There Any Maintenance or Repair Costs Associated With Solar Energy Systems?

Solar energy systems have minimal maintenance and repair costs, especially when compared to traditional energy systems. The occasional cleaning and inspection are usually enough to keep your solar panel system running efficiently.

Is Solar Energy a Sustainable Investment for My Property?

In addition to all the financial savings, solar energy is also a sustainable investment for your property. Not only does it decrease your carbon footprint, but it also increases your property value since solar energy systems are highly desirable to potential buyers.

Making the Switch to Solar Makes Financial Sense

While solar energy installation can come with an upfront cost, understanding the ROI through incentives, tax credits, and savings, can help homeowners see solar energy as the best option. It represents an opportunity to invest in a cleaner, renewable energy source, which will save you money and add value to your property. Contact Solar Bear of Tampa today at (727) 471-7442 to start seeing your energy bills dropping and your return on investment growing with the power of solar energy systems!

Do You Need To Turn Off Solar Panels Before Having Them Cleaned?

Are your solar panels looking a bit dusty? Whether it be for aesthetics or efficiency reasons, you may be tempted to clean them. But do you need to turn them off beforehand? Before we get into that, the professionals at Solar Bear Orlando want to teach you when and how to clean your solar panels, followed by the best safety precautions to protect yourself and your solar panel system!

Knowing When To Clean Your Solar Panels

There are easy ways to determine whether your panels need to be cleaned in the first place. Solar panels are often designed to operate for quite a while without the need for daily (or even weekly) maintenance for your convenience. But of course, everything needs to be tended to at some point. In the case of solar panels, the signs can be obvious. For instance, your panels might be caked over with layers of dust to the point where you can’t even see the actual panel anymore. And if you pay attention to your energy usage, you might realize that your panels aren’t generating as much power as they used to because there’s so much dust blocking the sunlight. But for a general rule of thumb, solar panels should be cleaned around every 6 months and no longer than a year.

Why Are My Solar Panels Dirty? Just like the mantle of your fireplace (or any shelf around your home), high and unattended areas can collect dust over time. The same goes for the solar panels on your rooftop. Other natural occurrences can also contribute to your panels getting dirty like bird activity, dead bugs, or dirt spots after rainfall. Keeping pigeons away can make a difference since they’re the worst for getting solar panels dirty.

Your Solar Panel Safety Checklist

Before you get started on cleaning your solar panels, it’s essential to make all of the necessary arrangements to protect yourself and your panels. To answer your question, yes, you should always shut off your solar panel system before you perform any work on it including cleaning. This is to reduce the risk of any electrical issues caused by water exposure. After turning off your solar panels, take note of some of these other recommended safety precautions:

• Wear proper gear including a hard hat and non slip shoes
• Make sure that your ladder is completely stable
• Only get on your roof during ideal weather conditions
• Watch your every step while on the roof
• Take your time cleaning, do not rush the process

How Should I Clean My Solar Panels? There are cleaning kits designed just for solar panels that are meant to be more gentle so as to not leave behind any scratches, but hosing them down with your garden hose (not a pressure washer) can suffice if you would rather avoid getting up on your roof. Either way, just remember to turn off your solar panels beforehand. But for the best results, it’s better to hire your local solar professionals. Learn more maintenance tips!

Contact Your Local Solar Professionals In Florida!

If your solar panels need cleaning but you’re not comfortable with doing it yourself, no problem! Leave it to the trusted and reliable professionals at Solar Bear Orlando. We will gladly perform maintenance on your solar panel system, including regular inspections and cleaning. Call (727) 471-7442 today to receive an estimate on your next service!

Different Types of Solar Panels Compared

All solar panels may look the same at first glance, but there are actually different types with varying functionalities. This is great news for people who have a clear idea of how they want to use their panels and how much they’re willing to pay for them. Today, the professionals at Solar Bear Tampa will be going over the 3 main types of solar panels to help you make an informed decision on what’s best for you! After learning about the different types, you can always consult our knowledgeable team in finding the one that fits your needs.

Monocrystalline Solar Panels: Best For High Performance

The oldest style of solar panel is the monocrystalline variety, which also makes it the most-produced kind. This style is known for putting out the best performance which is great for high-energy properties. Monocrystalline gets its name from the fact that it consists of a single silicon crystal that’s been cut out into individual sections and you can identify these panels by their solid black appearance. Other than having a high energy output, this type is also known for being the most efficient. As you can likely guess, the biggest tradeoff is the price. Although monocrystalline solar panels come at a high cost, the amount you pay is often worth the quality you receive and there are solar finance options to help you cover the cost

Pros	Cons
● Peak performance ● Most energy-efficient	● High cost

Polycrystalline Solar Panels: Best For Cost-Effectiveness

Also known as multi-crystalline because they consist of many crystal fragments combined into a single entity, polycrystalline solar panels are popular as a cost-effective option for many homeowners. They may not be as efficient or produce as much energy as monocrystalline panels, but they can still provide sufficient energy for average home use. In return, they come at a much lower price range in comparison. Many individuals choose this kind as a way to save money in more ways than one. You’ll be able to spot a polycrystalline solar panel by its blue color.

Pros	Cons
● Less expensive	● Average performance

Thin-Film Solar Panels: Best For Flexible Use

The least popular option is the thin-film solar panel. Like polycrystalline panels, thin-film panels also put out less performance but at a lower price. The main difference is that these panels are incredibly flat in comparison, almost like a sheet of paper. This style can be useful in areas that aren’t able to support traditional solar panels, like roofing that doesn’t provide adequate space. Thin-film panels can be draped over uneven surfaces and require minimal labor, but they should still be used as a last resort since they’re not as effective in providing solar energy.

Pros	Cons
● Flexible installation ● Low cost	● Least performance ● Less energy-efficient

Find The Right Solar Panel For You!

Call Solar Bear Tampa today at (727) 471-7442 to have a solar professional come to your property for an accurate evaluation and recommendation. Our team is skilled in calculating your average energy usage and finding the best solar panel setup to fit your needs in the most cost-efficient way. Ask about our free estimates!

Is It Better to Buy or Finance Solar?

Are you considering switching to solar power in Florida? With its abundant sunshine, it’s no wonder that more and more homeowners are turning to solar energy. However, the decision to invest in solar panels can be a daunting one, especially when it comes to financing options.

At Solar Bear Orlando, we understand that choosing the right payment plan is just as important as selecting the right equipment. That’s why we’ve put together this article to help you weigh the pros and cons of buying versus financing your solar panel system.

With our expert guidance, you can make an informed decision that fits both your budget and your energy needs.

Solar Investment: Is Financing or Buying the Way to Go?

If you’re considering switching to solar power in Florida, one of the first questions that may come to mind is whether it’s better to buy or finance your solar panels. The answer depends on a variety of factors, including your budget and how long you plan to stay in your home.

Here are some things to consider when making the decision:

• First, if you have the funds available, buying your solar panels outright can save you money in the long run. You’ll pay a larger upfront cost but will ultimately own your system and won’t have to worry about monthly payments or interest rates. Additionally, owning your system means you may be eligible for tax credits and other incentives that can further reduce the overall cost of installation.

• On the other hand, financing your solar panels can make them more accessible for those who don’t have a large lump sum available. Financing options typically allow homeowners to pay off their system over time with manageable monthly payments.

Let’s take a closer look at each option.

Considerations for Buying Solar Outright

If you take out a solar loan, you’ll need the lender’s approval for the design of your system. This means that you won’t have complete control over every aspect of your solar panel layout and setup. On the other hand, buying outright gives you greater flexibility and control over the design process.

Additionally, when purchasing a solar panel system outright, there is often more room for customization and personalization. You can work with a professional installer to create the exact layout and configuration that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Considerations for Financing a Solar Project

Before you apply for financing, it’s important to understand how borrowing affects your credit score. To qualify for financing, you’ll likely need a credit score above 650.

Your credit score reflects how reliable you are when it comes to paying back loans and debts. When you apply for financing, lenders will look at your credit report and use this information to determine whether they should lend money to you. If you have a high credit score, lenders will view you as a lower-risk borrower and more likely to approve your application.

It’s important to keep in mind that applying for new loans or lines of credit can also impact your credit score in the short term.

The good news is that if you qualify, monthly payments on a 15-year solar loan are often equal to or even less than your current power bill. This means that you can start enjoying the benefits of clean energy without breaking the bank.

Switch to Solar in Central Florida

Switching to solar energy is an investment that benefits both the environment and your wallet. With Solar Bear Orlando, you can trust that your transition to solar will be seamless and stress-free. Our team of experts will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your solar system is customized to fit your specific needs and budget whether you buy outright or finance your system.

Don’t wait any longer to make the switch—contact Solar Bear Orlando today at (727) 471-7442 to start saving on your energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint!