Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular for homeowners in Westwood. A new solar energy system can help you provide a dependable source of power, decrease your carbon footprint, and add value to your property. Going solar helps cut your utility bills and reduce your environmental impact. But you'll want to find a trustworthy installation company first. That’s why, after reviewing and analyzing providers, we assembled a guide to the most reputable solar companies in Westwood. These providers have a reputation for high-quality service.
Free quotes
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Family-operated business
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Informative resources
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:
Putting solar panels on your roof could lower your electricity payments while benefiting the planet by reducing your carbon footprint through renewable energy use. Key considerations when looking at local solar installers are as follows.
Verify that your solar installer is properly licensed. This help guarantee that the work is done correctly using current best installation practices. Michigan law has a de facto licensing requirement for solar photovoltaic installers. In other words, the law doesn't explicitly require solar installers to be licensed, but workers dealing with electrical wiring jobs do need a license. Solar thermal systems must be installed by a licensed mechanical contractor.
Look at review platforms such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and TrustPilot to find out what previous customers say about local solar installers. Reviews can give you an idea of a company’s reliability and customer service. Avoid companies with no reviews or with predominantly negative feedback.
Get free, detailed quotes from 3–5 solar companies. The quotes should list all costs and identify the solar parts included. Looking at several quotes can help you find the best value for your budget.
Top-notch solar installations should include strong workmanship and performance warranties. A workmanship warranty covers installation issues, such as cracks in the panels, poor wiring, or poor alignment. A performance warranty ensures a minimum energy output. Comprehensive guarantees show that a solar company believes in its work.
Solar energy can help reduce your electric bills over time. When considering the total price and value of solar panels, be sure to consider these factors.
The cost of home solar panels in Westwood varies depending on several factors, including your system's expected capacity and the type of solar technology being used. Generally speaking, a typical solar energy system costs $4,060 per kilowatt, not including permit fees, labor, or preliminary work. Most solar systems in Westwood are 6.1 kilowatts, and the typical Westwood homeowners spends $17,318 after accounting for federal tax refunds. Some homeowners may prefer to lease solar panels and reduce upfront costs.
Incentive Amount:
Appliance Recycling
Refrigerator: $50
Chest Freezer: $50
Window Air Conditioners: $15
Dehumidifier: $15
HVAC
WiFi Thermostat: $75
ECM Blower Motor: $200
Central Air Conditioning: 150 - $500
Central Air-Source Heat Pump: $250 - $500
Mini/Multi-Split Air-Source Heat Pump: $250 - $750
HVAC Combo Bonus: $100 bonus
Smart HVAC Combo Bonus: $150 bonus
Tune-Up Central Air Conditioner or Air-Sourse Heat Pump: $50
Ground-Source Heat Pump: $500 - $750
Efficient Circulation Pump: $100
Heat Pump Water Heater: $500
Pool Pump: $250
Pipe Wrap Insulation: $0.80/ft. ($8 max)
ENERGY STAR Products
LED Bulbs: In-store savings vary by retailer
LED Downlight Kits: In-store savings vary by retailer
Outdoor LED Fixtures: $5
Ceiling Fan: $10
Advanced Power Strip: $5
Room Air Conditioner: $10
Air Purifier: $10
Dehumidifier: $15
Clothes Washer: $20
Refrigerator: $20
Chest Freezer or Upright Freezer: $15
Television: $10 - $20
Personal Computer: $10
Occupancy Sensor: $5
Wifi-Enabled Thermostat: $75
Income Qualified Services
Free Product Kit: May include energy-saving items, such as LED lights and a smart power strip
Incentive Amount:
Appliances
Washing Machine: $25 - $50
WiFi Enabled Thermostat: $50 - $100
Room Air Conditioner: $20
Dehumidifier: $20
Pool Pump: $350
Refrigetor/Freezer Recyclilng: $50
Room Air Conditioner/Dehumidifier Recycling: $15
Heating & Cooling
Split System Central AC: $50 - $500
Air Source Heat Pump: $150 - $250
Ground Source Heat Pump: $200 - $300
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump: $350
ECM Motor: $50
Thermostat: $10 - $100
Central AC Tune-Up: $50
Windows & Insulation
Roof Insulation: $50 - $200
Wall Insulation: $50 - $125
Crawlspace Insulation: $10 - $50
Rim Joist Insulation: $20 - $50
Window Replacement: $15/window
Patio Door Replacement: $40/door
Lighting
Varies
Generally speaking, a solar photovoltaic (PV) array can be used to power any household appliance or system that uses electricity. In the simplest case, you can use a solar water heater.
There are a number of benefits to home solar energy. You can reduce emissions, raise your property values, and save money. With the right storage equipment, solar panels can also provide you with further energy independence and offer some protection from power outages.
It depends on your home's location and the kind of panels you plan to use. Westwood can experience long, hard winters, so we recommend installing your system in the spring months to maximize your generation for the year.
Absolutely. The grid in Westwood already uses a large share of renewable energy sources, and you may be able to sell your excess generated energy to your utility for additional cost savings.
The maintenance you'll need to do will vary based on the type of solar panels you have. At a minimum, you should clean and inspect each panel four times a year. Your solar installation company might offer comprehensive plans where they'll do the maintenance for you.
While solar energy might not be the best performing choice for some in dark or wet areas, the latest generation of equipment and energy storage systems could increase your property's solar viability enough where you could achieve a return on investment. A contractor could also recommend a different primary source of renewable energy like wind or geothermal to boost your generation.
Solar panels are on par with other forms of renewable energy. They have inexpensive upkeep and today's systems can stand up to the worst conditions.
