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If you’ve already invested in solar panels or are considering making the switch to clean energy, adding spray foam insulation is the perfect next step to maximize your savings and efficiency. While solar panels generate your electricity, spray foam insulation ensures that energy isn’t wasted by sealing air leaks and improving your home’s temperature control.

Without proper insulation, much of the energy your solar system produces can go toward heating or cooling a home that constantly leaks air. By combining solar with spray foam, you’ll reduce energy waste, increase comfort year-round, and see a faster return on your investment. It’s a smart, cost-effective upgrade that takes your solar setup to the next level.

Here in Tampa, where brutal heat and unpredictable storms are just part of life, the last thing you need is a cut-rate spray foam job that flakes, cracks, or fails when it matters most. Choosing the right spray foam contractor in Tampa is an investment in your home and comfort for the long haul. So, how do you find someone who gets it right the first time? Here’s what to look for:

1. Check Credentials

Plenty of contractors toss around the words licensed and insured. That’s the bare minimum. What you really want is someone whose team holds manufacturer-specific certifications and isn’t afraid to show them. Reputable crews take the time to train. They know how to use the equipment correctly, insulating properly for Gulf Coast conditions—not just whatever passes inspection. Look for a spray foam specialist who:

• Works exclusively with spray foam (not just as an “add-on” service).
• Knows the difference between open- and closed-cell foam—and when each is appropriate.
• Can explain whythey recommend a certain product for your attic, walls, or crawlspace.

2. Ask Questions

A proper insulation job performs well for decades. That takes an understanding of how a building breathes, traps heat, and handles moisture. So, a great contractor won’t just show up and start spraying. They’ll ask smart questions and maybe even run a blower door test or do a quick thermal scan. They’ll talk to you about air leakage, humidity levels, ventilation, and vapor barriers, without making your eyes glaze over. If a potential spray foam contractor is not talking about how their work fits into the whole system of your home, keep looking.

3. Check Reviews

In a city like Tampa, word gets around. Check reviews and ask for references. Really get to know a potential partner, and how long they’ve actually been in business.

• Do customers say they were treated with respect?
• Was the team on time, neat, and communicative?
• Did the foam hold up through a full summer season—and beyond?

And remember, the best contractors don’t hide behind jargon or unclear pricing. They give you a clear, written breakdown of what they’re installing, why, and how long it’ll take.

You Should Feel Confident—Not Pressured: We’re the Preferred Spray Foam Partner in Tampa

A trustworthy spray foam insulation contractor won’t pressure you into a same-day decision. They’ll give you room to ask questions and compare options, so you can make a call that feels right. And they’ll still be there to support you after the work is done.

At Solar Bear of Tampa, spray foam is something we’ve mastered. Want to talk to a team that does it right? Contact us today at (727) 353-3886! We’re proud to serve Tampa homeowners who expect more—and we’re ready to show you what that looks like.

Due to changes in regulations, 2025 looks to be an important year for homeowners who are considering going solar in Central Florida. If you didn’t know, the 30% Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit is ending on December 31st, 2025.

This means that the decision to go solar has never mattered more. Our team at Solar Bear Orlando explains why.

The Tax Credit: What’s Changing

The tax credit was originally extended under the Inflation Reduction Act and was supposed to follow a gradual phase-out, dropping from 30% in the early 2030s to zero by 2035. But the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4th, 2025, ended the gradual phase-out. Instead, it now expires at the end of 2025.

What does this mean for you? It means that if you want to claim the full 30% credit, you must have your system fully installed by December 31st, 2025. Which means time is ticking!

Why Act Now?

So you’ve been on the fence for a while, because solar is a big investment. We get it. But think about it this way. Say the average cost of your solar system is $23,840, with the 30% credit, that amount will decrease by $7,152. So your out-of-pocket costs would be around $16,688, a substantial savings!

So, is going solar still worth it after 2025? The answer depends:

• YES, if you arrange to have your system installed by December 31st, 2025y, you’re eligible for major savings and stronger financial returns.
• NO, if you continue to wait after 2025, you’ll lose the federal tax incentive entirely.

Read More > Do Tax Credits Apply to Solar Carports?

What About Delays?

Of course, now that the end of the credit is looming, homeowners and installers are racing to get systems installed. A surge in installations has been reported nationwide.

Also, new Treasury rules state that it is required that the construction of the system must have begun; just ordering the equipment and waiting to install will not qualify. This means that time is of the essence. Planning, permitting, and purchasing the solar array must happen NOW if it’s be be completed by year’s end.

The Next Phase: After 2025

Once the upcoming 2025 deadline passes, the only solar tax relief left for homeowners will be through third-party leases/PPAs, which are valid until the end of 2027.

State or local incentives, net metering programs, and long-term utility savings still make going solar a good investment—though it does sting a bit to be losing out on the 30% tax relief credit.

Is It Still Worth It?

Yes, of course! The solar tax credit can help make installing solar less expensive for many Central Florida homeowners, until the deadline, of course.

Now is the time to:

• Reach out to reputable installers like Solar Bear Orlando
• Secure quotes and begin permitting
• Schedule installations now to meet the December deadline
• Explore financing options and consult a tax professional about credit rollover provisions

The last few months of the 2025 window are your best shot at optimizing savings and making solar a smart, sustainable choice.

Call Solar Bear Orlando Today

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to go solar, this is it. Don’t risk missing out on thousands in savings when the tax credit disappears at the end of 2025. Call Solar Bear Orlando at (727) 353-3886 today to schedule your free consultation.

Don’t wait, the clock is ticking!

In Florida, solar is booming. But as systems age, roofs get replaced, or homeowners move, one question keeps popping up: Can I just take my panels down and put them back up? Legally, you can’t do that without a permit. And in a place like Tampa, where every city and county does things a little differently, skipping that step is a fast track to fines and frustration. Here’s what you need to know about removing and reinstalling solar panels and the permits you’ll need:

Even Simple Solar Jobs Require Permits

Removing and reinstalling solar panels might seem like a simple job. In reality, there’s more going on behind the scenes than just unscrewing something. Here’s what permits do:

• Grid Safety:Your solar system is tied into your home’s electrical panel and, by extension, the utility grid. Disconnecting and reconnecting it must be done according to electrical code.
• Structural Integrity:Panels aren’t just slapped onto a roof. They’re installed with attention to wind uplift, weight distribution, and water sealing. Permits help verify those standards are maintained.
• Insurance and Warranty Compliance:Many panel warranties and homeowner insurance policies require that any work to solar panels must be done by a licensed contractor with proper documentation. Skip the permit, and you’ll probably lose coverage.

What’s Required in Tampa? It Depends on Where You Live

This is where things get tricky—and why Solar Bear of Tampa always encourages a proactive approach. You’ll need a building permit and an electrical permit in Hillsborough County. In a nearby municipality like Temple Terrace or Plant City, the application process, fees, and inspections might differ. Permitting authorities will want to know:

• Who’s doing the work (they need to be licensed).
• Whether the roof structure has changed.
• How the electrical system will be reconnected.
• What kind of panels and mounting hardware are involved.

And yes—even if you’re putting the same panels back on the same roof, you’ll still need approval.

Before You Move Your Solar Panels, Here’s What to Do

Planning ahead means fewer headaches later. If you’re thinking about moving or replacing your solar panels, take these steps first:

1. Call Your Local Building Department: Ask about solar reinstallation requirements, forms, and timelines. Each city has its own process.
2. Work With a Licensed Solar Contractor: Don’t DIY this one. A reputable contractor like Solar Bear can handle the permit process, perform the work safely, and make sure you don’t miss a detail that could cost you later.
3. Bundle It With Other Work If Needed: If you’re replacing your roof, your contractor can often coordinate solar removal and reinstallation under the same permit. This saves time and keeps all the documentation clean.

Solar Bear of Tampa Has You Covered

Solar Bear of Tampa has helped hundreds of Florida homeowners get through the permitting process. So, whether you’re upgrading, relocating, or just refreshing your system, we know how to do it by the book—without any stress. Reach out to us today at (727) 353-3886, and we’ll walk you through it, handle the paperwork, and make sure your system is back up and running smoothly.

As more and more homeowners look for ways to cut their monthly expenses in Central Florida, the question of “Is a home energy audit really worth it in 2025?” comes to the forefront.

The answer is yes, now more than ever!

With rising energy costs, smart home technologies, and renewable energy options like solar panels becoming mainstream, an energy audit can be the solution to unlocking major savings in the Orlando area. Follow along as our team at Solar Bear Orlando shares how!

What Is a Home Energy Audit?

Think of an energy audit as a check-up for your home. During an audit, your home will be evaluated on how efficiently it uses energy, and where improvements can be made. This can include finding air leaks around windows and doors, testing insulation, checking ductwork, and assessing your HVAC system and other appliances.

In 2025, these home energy audits are more advanced than they’ve ever been. Auditors use thermal imaging cameras, smart meters, and blower door tests that allow them to pinpoint where your home is losing energy.

Why an Energy Audit Matters in 2025

Due to inflation and our ever-changing economy, energy bills are higher than ever, especially here in Florida, where air conditioning works overtime. An audit helps identify this wasted energy so you can lower your overall monthly costs.

Plus, many homes in Central Florida are equipped with technology, from smart thermostats to appliances. An audit helps homeowners make the most of these tools.

By improving your home’s efficiency, you not only save money but also cut back on greenhouse gas emissions. Pairing energy upgrades with solar energy makes an even bigger impact.

The Solar Connection

An energy audit and solar panels go hand in hand. Here’s why:

Right-Sizing Your Solar System

An audit ensures your home is energy-efficient before installing solar. That way, you won’t pay for a larger system than you need. By sealing leaks, upgrading insulation, and replacing inefficient appliances first, your solar system can generate electricity more easily.

Maximizing ROI

Solar panels are an investment, and the more energy efficient your home is, the quicker your investment pays off. An energy audit helps eliminate waste, so every kilowatt your panels produce will go directly toward powering your home, not compensating for any inefficiencies.

Long-Term Sustainability

By combining an efficient home with solar energy, you’re equipped to readily fight against rising energy costs. Not only can you generate clean power from the sun, but you ensure that your home will use that power wisely.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

Yes! A home energy audit is worth it in 2025. For most Central Florida homeowners, the upfront cost of the audit is offset by the long-term savings on monthly bills. When paired with solar panels, the benefits multiply, contributing to even higher savings and a more sustainable lifestyle overall.

Read More > How Can I Combat Rising Energy Costs in Orlando?

Take Control of Your Energy Future

At Solar Bear Orlando, we believe an energy audit should be the first step toward going solar. It gives you a clear picture of where your home stands today and helps you maximize the benefits of solar tomorrow.

If you’ve been thinking about lowering your energy bills, reducing your carbon footprint, or making your Orlando area home more comfortable, an energy audit is a great place to start. And when you’re ready to take the next step, solar panels can transform your home into a true energy powerhouse.

Schedule a solar consultation with Solar Bear Orlando today (727) 353-3886!