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3 Things to Know About Solar Panel Financing in 2023

Solar power has become a popular upgrade for homeowners looking to reduce their dependence on non-renewable energy sources. While embracing solar energy to power your home comes with some upfront costs, there are financing options available that make the transition to solar energy more affordable. These generous financing offers can help reduce the upfront costs and spread them out over time, making it easier on your wallet. Here’s what you need to know about solar panel financing for 2023.

1. Pay With Cash If Possible

While there are various ways to finance your solar investment, paying with cash is undoubtedly the best option, if you have the cash on hand. Not only does it provide immediate relief in the form of lower energy bills, but you can also create surplus power that you can sell back to the grid. Plus, without any monthly payments or interest rates to worry about, you are free to enjoy the full benefits of your investment without any lingering financial burdens.

2. If You Can Already Cover Your Electric Bills, You Can Cover a Solar Loan

More and more homeowners are applying for solar loans—and for good reason. These loans function much like typical loans but with a focus on solar panels. The concept is simple enough: if you can afford your current electric bill, you should be able to handle the payments for a solar loan.

Once the loan has been paid off, you’ll own the solar panels outright, meaning you can continue to enjoy the benefits of free energy for years to come. Of course, owning the panels also means that you’ll need to take care of any maintenance or servicing that they require, but the long-term savings make it more than worth it.

3. Cash-Out Refinance or HELOC May Be an Option

Planning to refinance your mortgage? A cash-out refinance can help you pay for your new solar energy system. This option allows you to access the equity in your home so you can use the funds for much-needed home improvements or to pay off other debt.

Another option is a home equity line of credit (HELOC), which can function like a lower-interest credit card, giving you access to cash for your solar panel installation or other home projects. With these financing options, you’ll have the convenience of easy access to cash or a low-interest loan to help you transition to solar energy.

Making the Switch to Solar Has Never Been Better for Your Wallet

If you’re looking to save some money and reduce your carbon footprint, it’s time to consider making the switch to solar energy. With today’s financing programs and generous grants and tax rebates, it’s never been more affordable to make the transition. Not only will you be helping the environment, but you’ll also save instantly on your energy bills. If you’re ready to say goodbye to expensive utility bills and hello to a more sustainable future, reach out to the solar experts at Solar Bear of Tampa today at (727) 471-7442!

Do Solar Panels Attract Thunder?

If you’re considering making the switch to solar, you likely have a lot of questions. Aside from learning how the panels work and how you can eliminate your electricity bills, one question that may come up when considering a switch to solar is whether solar panels attract lightning and thunder. After all, it’s understandable to be concerned about your home’s safety during a storm. So, if you’re concerned about solar panel safety during a storm, read on to get some peace of mind!

Solar Panels Are Safe During a Storm

Tampa is an area prone to thunderstorms throughout the year, so it’s only natural to be concerned about ensuring your home is fully protected from damaging elements—not just wind and rain, but also lightning and thunder. Some homeowners are hesitant about installing solar panels on their properties, believing they can attract lightning.

Contrary to what some may believe, solar panels do not attract lightning or thunder. In fact, solar panels have been found to be more resilient than traditional roofing materials during severe weather events—in other words, they can provide protection for your home! So, instead of worrying about your solar panels during a storm, you can rest assured that they’re safe and ready to do their job as soon as sunny skies emerge again.

Solar Panel Safety Facts

Solar panels are incredibly safe, no matter the conditions outside. Aside from protecting your roof during a storm, here are some interesting facts about solar panel safety:

• Solar Panels Have Undergone Many Safety Certifications. One of the main reasons why solar panels are safe to install on your home is that they have undergone numerous safety certifications. Before a solar panel can be sold on the market, it must pass rigorous safety testing to meet industry standards and regulations. These certifications ensure that solar panels are safe and meet specific safety requirements.

• Solar Panel Installations Are Done by Trained Professionals. Another reason why installing solar panels is safe is that they are typically installed by trained professionals. Installing solar panels requires knowledge of electricity and electrical systems, and most solar panel companies have experienced installers who have been trained to install solar panels safely and properly. You can rest assured that your solar panel system will be set up correctly, minimizing the risk of any safety hazards.

• Solar Panels Do Not Pose Fire Risks. Contrary to popular belief, solar panels do not pose any fire risks. Solar panels are made of high-quality materials, including tempered glass and aluminum frames, that are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. In addition, most solar panel systems are designed with safety features that automatically shut down the system in the event of a fire. Solar panels are less likely to cause a fire than conventional electrical systems.

Harness Free Energy From the Sun With Solar Energy Systems

There are numerous reasons why solar panels are safe to install on your home. From rigorous safety certifications to trained professionals, solar panels have been designed with safety in mind. By installing solar panels on your home, you not only save money and reduce your carbon footprint, but you also enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your solar panel system is safe and reliable. If you’re considering solar panels for your home, don’t hesitate to take the leap—your energy bills and the environment will thank you! Call Solar Bear of Tampa today at (727) 471-7442 to get started.

How Do I Know If My Roof Can Support Solar Panels?

While your roof can be a great spot to install solar panels to make use of the often underutilized space, you may be wondering how to ensure that your roof can support your solar panel system.

Great news! Our team at Solar Bear Orlando is here to help! In this guide, we will go over everything you need to know about your roof and a potential solar installation. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Your Roof & Solar Panels: What to Know

When it comes to solar panel installation, the roof of your home is one of the most critical factors to consider. Before investing in solar panels, homeowners must first ensure that their roofs are up to the task. The condition and orientation of your roof will influence how much power you can generate from solar energy.

The ideal roofing material for a solar panel installation is asphalt shingles. They are cost-effective, easy to install and maintain, and durable enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. However, other types of roofing materials such as metal or tile can also work well with solar panels if they are installed correctly.

Another factor that affects the efficiency of a solar panel installation is the direction in which your roof faces. For maximum energy output, your roof should face south if you live in the Northern Hemisphere or north if you live in the Southern Hemisphere.

How Much Do Solar Panels Weigh?

When it comes to installing solar panels on your roof, one of the key considerations is their weight. The weight of solar panels can vary depending on the type and size, but generally, rooftop solar panels weigh between 33 and 50 pounds per panel.

This means that a typical residential installation of 20-25 panels would add around 1,000-1,250 pounds to your roof.

Can My Roof Support the Weight of Solar Panels?

Before you start worrying about whether your roof can support this weight, it’s important to note that most modern roofs are designed with the extra load in mind.

Still, it’s always wise to consult with a professional like our team at Solar Bear Orlando during the planning stages of a solar panel installation project. We will be able to assess your roof’s strength and ensure that it can handle the additional weight without any structural damage.

Yes, it’s true, this additional load on your roof can put stress on your home’s foundation and potentially cause damage if not installed correctly. This is why we take the time to analyze the condition and age of your roof, as well as its pitch, slope, and materials.

We also consider the wind speed in your area to determine how much pressure the system will experience during high winds.

Finally, before moving forward with any solar installation, we check for any signs of pre-existing damage or wear that could compromise the strength of the roof structure.

Will Solar Panels Damage My Roof?

The good news is that when installed correctly, solar panels won’t damage your roof. In fact, they can provide additional protection against harsh weather conditions such as hailstorms or high winds.

Moreover, we use mounting systems designed specifically for the type of roofing material you have, whether it is asphalt shingles, metal, or tile.

Will My Roof Last Longer with Solar Panels?

The answer to this one is that it depends. The age and condition of your roof prior to installation will play a significant role in its longevity after solar panel installation. If your roof is already worn or damaged, adding weight from solar panels may put additional strain on it, leading to a shorter lifespan.

On the other hand, if your roof is relatively new and in good condition, it should be able to support the added weight without issue and the solar panels will protect your roof material from sun and weather damage over time.

Another factor that can affect how long your roof lasts with solar panels is the quality of installation. Improperly installed solar panels can lead to leaks or damage over time, which can impact the overall health of your roofing system. But when you work with Solar Bear Orlando, you won’t have to worry about that!

Join the Solar Revolution

If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable way to power your home or business while also reducing your carbon footprint, Solar Bear Orlando can help. We offer a range of solar solutions that are tailored to meet your specific needs, whether you’re looking for a small system to power just a few appliances or a larger one to run your entire home.

Contact Solar Bear Orlando at (727) 471-7442 to discover more about our solar solutions and start reaping the benefits of clean energy!

Should I Have Surge Protection for My Solar?

Looking to switch to solar and power up your home with the energy of the sun? As you start diving into the world of solar, it’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. There are lots of questions to ask and a lot to learn. One of those questions may be whether you need surge protection for your new system. Read on to learn all about surge protection for your solar energy system, and why it’s so important.

Surge Protection Is a Necessity for Solar Energy Systems

While surge protection is a small part of an overall solar system installation, it’s a critical one. Just like other electrical devices and equipment, solar panels are vulnerable to sudden boosts in voltage that can damage the panels’ internal components.

If your new system doesn’t have surge protection, your investment could be rendered useless the next time lightning strikes. Since solar panels are always exposed in places like roofs or fields and contain metallic components, they’re prime targets for lightning strikes, so they need to be protected from power surges.

Lightning and Solar Systems Don’t Mix

The truth is, lightning doesn’t even have to strike your new solar system to do damage. Of course, direct strikes affect solar energy systems the most but strikes to the grid or to the earth nearby your solar panels can cause degenerative damage over time.

When lightning hits a solar panel, it produces a current that can fail the insulation, panels, inverters, and communication equipment in the system. The combiner box and MPPT devices are particularly vulnerable to failure in this type of circumstance. Even if the panels themselves remain intact, the circuit controls and energy storage devices will be rendered unusable. It is important to consider these risks when using solar panels and take appropriate measures to protect against lightning strikes.

Your Solar System Needs Surge Protection

While solar energy systems have come a long way in recent years, it’s important to remember that no technology is perfect, and even the most advanced solar power systems can be vulnerable to damage from power surges. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your solar power system is equipped with surge protection.

With surge protection, you can rest assured that your investment is safe from unexpected damage caused by lightning strikes, power outages, and other common risks. So don’t take any chances—make a small investment in surge protection and enjoy the many benefits of reliable, uninterrupted solar power.

Have Questions About Switching to Solar? We’ve Got Answers!

There’s a lot to know when it comes to making the switch to solar energy to power your home. Luckily, the solar experts at Solar Bear of Tampa are ready to answer all your questions! Call us today at (727) 471-7442 and learn how easy it is to make the switch and harness free, clean energy from the sun!