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 Fergus Falls residents install rooftop solar panels to provide a dependable source of power and lower their carbon footprint. Making the switch to solar power helps cut your utility bills and reduce your environmental impact. But you'll want to find a reputable installation company first. That’s why we’ve researched the options and compiled a guide to the most reputable solar installation companies in Fergus Falls. These top installers consistently deliver high-quality and reliable services.
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
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:
Going solar can be a great way to save money on electricity costs and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint using renewable energy. Here are some crucial factors to consider when evaluating if a solar installer is trustworthy.
It's important to hire a licensed solar installer. This helps ensure that the work is done correctly using current installation best practices. To install a new photovoltaic system in Minnesota, a contractor must have an electrical contractor or electrician license from the Department of Labor and Industry, along with a residential building or remodeling contractors' license in some cases. If their work is regulated by the state's Mechanical Code, they must carry a $25,000 minimum bond with the Department of Labor and Industry.
Check Google Reviews, TrustPilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to see what past customers have to say about local solar providers. Detailed reviews on these platforms can help you evaluate a provider's integrity and customer service. Be wary of providers with few or mainly poor reviews.
Get free, detailed quotes from at least three solar companies. The quotes should outline all costs and identify the solar parts included. Comparing several quotes can help you find the best value for your budget.
Quality solar installations should have comprehensive workmanship and performance warranties. The workmanship warranty covers any installation problems such as poor alignment, cracks in the panels, or poor wiring. The performance warranty promises a specific energy output level. Strong guarantees indicate that a solar installer trusts its installations.
Going solar can help lower your electric bills over time. When evaluating the total price and value of solar panels, make sure to consider these factors.
The cost of home solar panels in Fergus Falls depends on several factors, including your system's expected capacity and the type of solar technology being used. Generally speaking, a complete solar energy system could range from $4,030 per kilowatt, not including preliminary work, permit fees, or labor. Most solar systems in Fergus Falls are 7.1 kilowatts, and the typical Fergus Falls homeowners spends $20,137 after accounting for federal tax refunds. Some homeowners may prefer to lease solar panels and reduce upfront costs.
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Solar: 100% exemption from real property taxes
Wind: 100% exemption from real and personal property taxes
Incentive Type: Sales Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% of sales tax
Incentive Amount:
Dishwasher: $35
Clothes Washer: $35
Electric Clothes Dryer: $35
Refrigerator: $35
Freezer: $35
Dehumidifier: $20
Room/Window A/C: $35
High Efficiency Electric Water Heater: $35
Central A/C Tune-Up: $35
Central A/C: $200-$350
Mini Split/Ductless A/C: $250
ECM Replacement Motor: $100
Furnaces: $200-$375
Heat Pump Water Heater: $250
Air Source Heat Pump: $250
Geothermal Heat Pump: $100/ton
A solar photovoltaic (PV) system can generate power to run any electric appliance or system in your home. If you don't want to use solar power for your entire home, you can install a solar heating system for your water.
There are a number of benefits to home solar energy. You can raise your property values, reduce emissions, and qualify for tax benefits. With the right storage equipment, solar panels can also give you further energy independence and offer some protection from power outages.
It depends on where you live and what type of panels you're installing. Fergus Falls can experience long, hard winters, so we recommend installing your system in the springtime to maximize your generation for the year.
You might be pleasantly surprised at how short it takes to get a return on investment from your solar panels. In areas like Fergus Falls with moderate sunlight, the period could last 17.4 years per 5 kW of power, but may be shorter if you have low electricity costs or a smaller energy capacity.
The specific types of maintenance you need will depend on the type of panels you're using. Regardless of type, you should clean your panels regularly and inspect them for damage. Many solar contractors in the Fergus Falls area offer multipoint maintenance plans to help you keep your panels healthy and make the most of your system.
The answer will depend on your specific needs and goals. In most cases, monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient for Fergus Falls homes. However, if you're looking at a more frugal option, then you could thin-film or polycrystalline solar panels. When you're choosing a contractor, make sure to ask about the brand names and models of solar panels an installer offers and the benefits and drawbacks of each.
