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5 Tips for Claiming Solar Tax Credits for Your Rental Properties

As a savvy Florida landlord, you’re always looking for ways to maximize your rental property investments. And with the sun shining bright in the Sunshine State, solar energy is a smart move that can boost your bottom line and attract eco-conscious tenants. But did you know that you can also reap significant financial rewards through solar tax credits? 

You read that right—the federal government and the state of Florida offer attractive financial incentives to encourage the adoption of solar energy. Here’s how to claim these tax credits and maximizing your savings.

1. Get to Know the Federal Solar Tax Credit

The federal solar tax credit, also known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), allows you to deduct a percentage of the cost of your solar system from your federal taxes. For systems installed in 2023, the credit is 30%. That means if you install a $20,000 solar system, you could potentially receive a $6,000 tax credit! And that’s a big deal.

The federal solar tax credit is currently set to step down in the coming years. So, the sooner you install your solar system, the more you can save. Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to maximize your tax benefits.

2. Explore Florida’s Property Tax Exemption

Florida sweetens the deal with a property tax exemption for solar energy systems. So, the value added to your property by the solar installation won’t be subject to property taxes. It’s like getting a bonus discount on your property taxes, year after year.

3. Partner with a Reputable Solar Installer

Choosing the right solar installer is crucial for a smooth and successful installation. Make sure your installer is licensed, insured, and experienced with the tax credit process. They’ll help you gather the necessary documentation and ensure your system meets all the requirements for claiming the credits.

4. Keep Meticulous Records

When it comes to tax credits, documentation is key. Keep detailed records of all your solar-related expenses, like invoices, receipts, and any permits or approvals. You’ll make the tax filing process so much easier, ensuring you receive the full credit you’re entitled to.

5. Consult with a Tax Professional

Tax laws are complex, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified tax expert to ensure you’re maximizing your deductions and credits. They can help you understand the specific rules and regulations related to solar tax credits, so you get the most out of your investment.

Solar Is a Smart Investment for Your Rental Property—Get Started Today

It’s time to turn sunshine into savings! Reach out to Solar Bear of Tampa today—we’ll help you harness the power of clean energy, reduce your energy costs, and boost your rental property’s value. It’s a smart investment that benefits both your wallet and the environment. Call us today at (727) 471-7442 to get started!

Can I Run my AC on a Hybrid Solar System?

It’s another sweltering Tampa summer day, and you’re basking in the cool comfort of your home, AC humming away… all powered by the sun. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, with a hybrid solar system, it’s not just a dream—it’s a reality within your reach. You read that right—you can run your AC on a hybrid solar system. Here’s how.

Solar Can Power Your AC (And Then Some!)

There’s a common misconception that solar energy can’t handle the power demands of air conditioning, especially during those scorching Florida summers. But that’s simply not true.

A well-designed hybrid solar system, paired with the right equipment and battery storage, can absolutely power your AC unit, along with other essential appliances in your home. With the right equipment in place, harnessing the abundant sunshine that Tampa Bay is blessed with and putting it to work for you is so simple.

How Hybrid Solar Works

A hybrid solar system is a dynamic duo, combining the power of solar panels with the reliability of the grid. During the day, your solar panels soak up the sun’s rays and convert them into electricity, powering your home and potentially even sending excess energy back to the grid.

But what happens when the sun goes down, or those afternoon thunderstorms roll in? Here’s why it’s called “hybrid.” Your system seamlessly switches to grid power, ensuring you never experience an interruption in service. And with battery storage, you can even store excess solar energy for use during peak demand times or power outages.

Beyond the AC: Power Your Whole Home

A hybrid solar system isn’t just about keeping you cool; it’s about powering your entire lifestyle. From lights and appliances to entertainment systems and even electric vehicle charging, solar energy can fuel your home and reduce your reliance on the grid.

Enjoy the freedom of knowing that your home is powered by clean, renewable energy. Plus, watch your electric bill shrink dramatically—or even disappear altogether. And imagine the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re prepared for power outages, with a battery backup that keeps your essentials running. It’s an all-around win!

Turn to Your Trusted Solar Partner—Solar Bear of Tampa

Solar Bear of Tampa is passionate about empowering Tampa Bay homeowners to embrace the benefits of solar energy. We’ll work with you to design a customized hybrid solar system that meets your unique energy needs and budget. From expert installation to ongoing maintenance and support, we’re here to make your solar journey seamless and rewarding.

So, if you’re ready to take control of your energy future and enjoy the cool comfort of solar-powered AC, contact Solar Bear of Tampa today! Call us at (727) 471-7442 for your free consultation!

 

How Long Is a Solar Install & Maintenance Appointment?

You’re ready to take the leap into solar power—that’s great! It’s an exciting step towards a greener, more energy-independent future. But among all the enthusiasm, practical questions start to pop up. One of the most common ones we hear: “How long will the solar installation process take?”

It’s a fair question, and the answer, like most things in life, is: it depends.

Installation: A Symphony of Moving Parts

Think of a solar installation like a well-choreographed dance. There are multiple players involved—from the permitting process to the actual installation of panels and electrical components. Each step has its own process, and the overall duration varies depending on the complexity of your system and any unforeseen obstacles along the way.

• Permits & Approvals.Before any panels hit your roof, we need the green light from local authorities. This involves submitting paperwork, inspections, and sometimes a bit of back-and-forth. We always work diligently to expedite the process, and it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on your location and the efficiency of your local permitting office.
• System Design & Customization.We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your solar system will be custom-designed to meet your energy needs and the unique characteristics of your home. This process involves careful analysis of your energy usage, roof orientation, and shading factors. While this step is crucial for maximizing your solar investment, it typically only takes a few days to a week.
• Installation Day(s).This is where the magic happens! Our experienced installation team will arrive bright and early, ready to transform your roof into a clean energy powerhouse. The actual installation time varies depending on the size and complexity of your system, but most installations are completed within 1-3 days.
• Final Inspections & Activation.Once the installation is complete, we’ll schedule a final inspection to ensure everything is up to code. Once approved, we’ll flip the switch and activate your system, and voila! You’re officially a solar-powered homeowner.

Maintenance: A Quick Check-up for Long-Term Savings

Solar panels are remarkably low-maintenance. Think of them as the reliable friend who never complains and always shows up on time. However, occasional check-ups are recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

• Annual Inspections. We recommend an annual inspection to assess your system’s health, clean the panels, and identify any potential issues before they become major problems. These inspections are typically quick and painless, taking just a few hours.
• Troubleshooting & Repairs.Should issues arise, we’re just a phone call away. We’ll diagnose the problem and provide prompt, efficient repairs to get your system back up and running in no time.

We believe in open communication and setting realistic expectations. We’ll provide you with a detailed timeline for your installation and keep you informed every step of the way. And with our industry-leading warranties and ongoing support, you can rest assured that your solar investment is protected.

Ready to Embrace the Sunshine? Let’s Get Started!

Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from enjoying the incredible benefits of solar energy. Contact Solar Bear of Tampa today for a free consultation! We’ll answer all your questions and provide a clear, transparent timeline for your solar journey. It’s time to take control of your energy future and embrace the power of the sun—call us now at (727) 471-7442!

Solar Pool Heaters: Why Temp Drops Don’t Mean You Can’t Enjoy Your Pool

Fall is just around the corner and while it might take a few more months for the temperature to drop here in Central Florida, those chilly nights are coming! Did you know that with a solar power heater, you can heat your pool so you can enjoy your pool during the cooler months?

It’s true! By installing a solar system and a solar pool heater, the sun’s rays can heat your pool at a much more affordable cost than traditional systems.

Ready to see if this could work for your pool? Our team at Solar Bear Orlando explains why solar pool heaters are one of the best ways to harness the power of the Sunshine State’s energy this Fall!

What Are Solar Pool Heaters?

Essentially, if you think about it, the sun already heats your pool, but in the cooler months, not enough to make much of a difference. Solar pool heaters enhance the sun’s heating by using a panel, pump, and filter.

Your existing pool pump pushes water through a filter to strain out any debris, and then water is pumped into your solar system and is heated as it moves through the panel. Then, the warmer water slows back into your pool. Voila! A warm pool ready for a dip on a cool evening.

The best part? Solar pool heaters do not require a storage tank, and heating with solar is substantially less expensive than using an electric heater.

What Size Solar Pool Heater Do You Need?

As with any solar project, many factors are involved in designing the perfect solar pool heater for your needs.

We’ll make sure to factor in:

• Pool size
• Swimming season (almost year-round in Florida!)
• Average temperatures
• Desired pool temperature
• How much sun your home gets
• Collector orientation and efficiency
• If you use a pool cover

Based on the above, we will be able to determine the system requirements and collector sizing. A general rule of thumb is that the surface area of your solar collector should equal 50-100% of the surface area of your pool.

We’ll also make sure that your pool pump is adequately sized for your solar system. It’s important to note that if you are replacing a conventional pool heater with a solar-powered one, you may need a larger pump than what you currently have.

Make the Most of Your Solar Pool Heater

To truly make the most of the efficiency of your solar pool heater, we recommend using a pool cover to help retain heat, which can help reduce heat loss during the cooler months. There are even specially designed solar pool covers that are designed to absorb thermal energy and transfer it to the pool’s surface, supplementing the work that the solar pool heater is doing.

Due to the complexity of solar systems, we always recommend contacting a professional solar installation company when installing a solar pool heater. This will protect homeowners from any issues and boost the system’s efficiency since it will be installed to industry standards.

Read More > What Are the Most Important Questions to Ask a Solar Installer?

Enjoy Your Pool Year-Round

Though we still have a few months until it gets chilly here in Florida, NOW is the time to get your solar heater installed so you can take a dip in the pool even on the chilliest Central Florida nights!

Ready to install a solar heater for your Florida home’s pool? Schedule an appointment online or call Solar Bear Orlando to get a hassle-free quote today at (727) 471-7442!