Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
Year after year, more Waverly homeowners turn to rooftop solar panels to add value to their property and lower their carbon footprint. Solar power can reduce your energy costs and shrink your carbon footprint. However, it's important to select a reputable solar installer. That’s why, after conducting thorough research on providers, we compiled a guide to the most dependable solar companies in Waverly. These providers consistently deliver high-quality service.
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Family-operated business
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on solar companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
Installing solar panels can cut your electricity costs and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint. When deciding if a solar provider is a good fit for you, consider these key factors.
It's imperative that your solar installer has the proper licensing. This help guarantee that the work is done correctly using the most up-to-date installation methods. In Iowa, anyone making at least $2,000 annually from non-DIY solar or electrical work is a contractor and must pursue licensure from the Division of Labor. To install solar PV systems, a company will need an electrical contractor or journeyman license.
Look at review platforms such as TrustPilot, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to find out what previous customers have to say about local solar companies. Reviews can give you an idea of a company’s reliability and customer service. Be wary of companies with no reviews or with predominantly negative feedback.
To find a solar installer that fits your budget, get free, detailed quotes from 3–5 providers. The quotes should list all costs as well as all solar equipment included. Comparing several quotes helps you identify the option that best fits your budget.
Quality solar installations should come with strong workmanship and performance warranties. A workmanship guarantee covers any installation defects (such as poor alignment, poor wiring, or cracks in the panels), while a performance warranty ensures a certain level of energy production. Strong warranties show that a company is confident in its work.
Solar energy can help decrease your electric bills over time. When weighing the total price and value of solar panels, make sure to consider these factors.
The average Waverly homeowner will spend around $27,441 on a home solar system after federal tax refunds. Solar arrays in Waverly cost approximately $4,010 per kilowatt, with the average residential solar system being 9.8 kilowatts. An estimate from a local solar provider will include costs for preliminary work, permit fees, and labor, and will account for your system's capacity, size, and panel type. Some homeowners prefer to lease solar panels to reduce upfront costs.
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% of value added by renewable system
Incentive Amount:
Advanced Power Strips: up to $20
Air Source Heat Pump: $300-$800 for existing homes, $180-$480 for new homes
Appliance Recycling: up to $50
Central A/C: $150-$600 for existing homes, $90-$360 for new homes
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump: Varies
Electric Heat Pump Water Heater: $300-$350 for existing homes, $180-$210 for new homes
Electric HVAC System Tune-Up: up to $50
Gas Furnace: $180 for existing homes, $80 for new homes
Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,320-$1,750 for existing homes, $790-$1,050 for new homes
Learning Thermostat: $100 for existing homes, $60 for new homes
LED Light Bulbs: In-Store Rebates
Online Home Energy Assessment: FREE
Room Air Purifier: up to $30
Variable Speed Pool Pumps: up to $220
A solar photovoltaic (PV) array can generate power to run any electric appliance or system in your home. A more specific example is installing a solar heating system for your water.
There are a number of advantages of home solar energy. You can qualify for tax benefits, raise your property values, and reduce emissions. With the right storage equipment, solar panels can also offer you further energy independence and offer some protection from power outages.
Yes, you can use home solar energy alongside conventional power sources. In many areas, solar panels are designed to supplement your existing energy sources, so you can reap the environmental benefits and savings that come from using solar energy without having to completely switch over.
Your installer can give you an estimate of what your energy bills will look like after you install solar panels. Generally, your energy bills will decrease significantly because you'll be using energy from the sun for free, instead of buying energy from the utility company. The average annual savings in Waverly amount to $1,913.
Your payback period is the time to achieve an ROI on your solar panels. It will vary based on the rate your utility charges per kilowatt of power, their rated capacity, and the average sunlight in your area. Waverly gets quite a bit of sunlight per day, so an average payback period could last up to 14.3 years per 5 kW of capacity.
Yes, solar panels can still provide you with energy during a grid outage. To ensure that your solar system will keep working during a power outage, make sure to choose a quality solar provider and look for a solar system that includes a battery backup.
The answer ultimately depends on your specific situation. You'll be eligible for a federal tax credit of up to 30% of the system's cost, as well as state or local incentives depending on where you are. As for insurance, you'll need to inform your insurance company about your new solar panels. Your premium may increase due to added property values, but you'll have peace of mind if a covered event happens to the system.
Some frequently-used types of home solar panels in Waverly include monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin-film. Monocrystalline panels are balanced and efficient, while thin-film and polycrystalline panels pair good performance with greater upfront value. Ask your local provider about the types of solar panels they work with.
