Frequently Asked Questions for Solar Companies
Do you have questions about solar? Below, we answer several commonly asked questions about solar energy, as well as hiring and working with a solar contractor.
Q: Solar energy seems expensive, so how can I make my money back?
A: New financing options enable homeowners and businesses to start saving money as soon as their solar arrays are active. Every dollar you don’t spend on buying energy from a utility company is a dollar in your pocket. This adds up quickly, and it adds up even more quickly as energy costs rise.
Q: If solar power works and can be cost-effective, why does it need government support?
A: The federal government has supported every major energy source through R&D support and various incentives. Oil, natural gas, hydroelectric, biofuel and nuclear industries continue to receive support today because energy drives our economy.
Q: Don’t I need lots of expensive batteries to have solar electric power?
A: Batteries are only necessary if you want to get off the grid. As long as you stay connected to the grid, you don’t need any batteries.
Q: Do I have to get off the grid to use solar power?
A: No. If your solar array generates electricity, your home or business will draw power from your array first, then the grid as needed. If your array doesn’t generate as much electricity as you need, or if it’s nighttime, your home or business will draw what it needs from the grid. If you generate more power than you need, the excess will go to the grid and earn you money.
Q: How do I know what kind of solar array is right for my home or business?
A: It depends on what you want from your solar array and how much money you’re willing to invest. A small, passive solar thermal array is relatively inexpensive and can provide you with heat for water and heating your home. An active solar thermal array costs more but heats water and heats/cools your home more efficiently than a passive array. Photovoltaic (PV) arrays are more expensive than solar thermal arrays, but you can use them to offset electricity consumption in your home or business and even sell energy to the local utility company. A Diamond Certified solar contractor can help you determine the right kind of solar array for your home or business based on your specific site, needs and desired level of investment.
Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified solar contractor?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a solar contractor/installer with confidence by offering a list of top rated local companies that have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only solar contractor rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise® earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified solar contractor.
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