Everything You need to Know About Solar Panel Warranties
There’s a lot to know about all the different solar panel warranties and I will break it down as simply as I can here. Make sure your system is being installed by a Certified Solar Installer so there’s a 10 year workmanship warranty. This warranty covers your roof and any issues connected to the the solar installation such as leaks and any damage connected to leaks where the roof was penetrated to attach the racking. Also it makes sure the install was done up to code. Next up is the product warranty which is usually at least 10 years and covers your panels, inverters, batteries, etc. However, If there is an issue with any product you’ll usually know within ten days due to being able to monitor your system in real time. The manufacturers warranty will not cover any damage from a baseball or golf ball so if you have any chance of getting hit you may want to look into home owners insurance covering that. The 25 year performance warranty is standard which covers that the panels will produce at least 95% of the kilowatt-hours that was agreed upon. Well that wraps up all the warranty info you need to know and feel free to email me at Office@AllyElectricandSolar.com if you have any questions!
Are You Ready for California's Title 24?
In 2020 all new homes built in California are required to have a Solar System attached. From 2016-2019 all new homes had to be built Solar ready but now California is taking its game to the next level. California is the first state in the nation to do this so lets give ourselves a pat on the back. However, this will raise the cost of the house and the system will be paid for through the mortgage. Another way it can be done is though a third party owner (TPO) in which the system will be maintained and have a guaranteed minimum production level for the life of the system. Going this way will give the builder less profits though and the homeowner will have a lower return on investment (ROI). All in all it’s a great step forward for California to be the change we need to see more of.
How Much Energy is Your Water Heater Using?
Out of all the appliances in your home the water heater can be using most of your energy. According to the Department of Energy the water heater uses on average 17% of an American households energy. Typically, an electric hot water heater uses $438 worth of energy a year compared to a gas water heater which is around $224. Gas is usually cheaper but it is still a fossil fuel and cannot be supported by a solar system. Tankless water heaters are usually 20%-30% more efficient as well. Some keys to keeping your water heater bill down is to turn the thermostat down to 120 degrees, take quick showers/turn the water off while soaping up, install low flow water heads, insulate your tank, upgrade to a more efficient model, and be conscious at all times with how water is being used.