Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
A rooftop solar array could give you a renewable power source that will eventually pay for itself. Making the switch to solar power allows you to cut your utility bills and shrink your environmental impact. But you'll want to find a reputable installation company first. Luckily, we've done the research and created a guide to the best and most reliable solar installation companies in Springfield.
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
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Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Family-operated business
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
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 lower your electricity costs and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint. When determining whether a solar provider is the best option for you, consider these key factors.
Hiring a licensed solar installer is critical. This helps ensure that the work is done correctly using current installation best practices. Solar contractors in Oregon must be licensed and bonded by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board. For photovoltaic installations, each standard journeyman on the job will have at least 8,000 hours of hands-on experience and must follow continuing education requirements. Installers of solar thermal systems must be either a licensed solar heating installer and a plumbing journeyman.
Check Google Reviews, TrustPilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and other review sites to see what past customers are saying about local solar companies. Detailed reviews on these platforms can help you assess a provider's trustworthiness and customer service. Avoid providers with few or mainly poor reviews.
Call three to five solar companies for free, itemized quotes. These quotes should explain all costs and list the solar equipment included. Reviewing multiple quotes helps you find the most cost-effective option for your budget.
High-quality solar installations should have robust workmanship and performance warranties. The workmanship warranty covers any installation issues like poor wiring, cracks in the panels, or poor alignment. The output guarantee ensures an energy generation baseline. Strong guarantees reflect a solar provider's confidence in its installations.
Installing solar panels can help reduce your electric bills over time. When evaluating the total price and value of solar panels, be sure to consider these factors.
Springfield homeowners typically spend about $9,753 on home solar systems after federal tax refunds. Solar arrays in Springfield cost approximately $3,500 per kilowatt, with the average residential solar system being 4.0 kilowatts. A personalized estimate from a local solar provider will include costs for permit fees, labor, and preliminary work, and will account for your system's capacity, size, and panel type. Some homeowners prefer to lease solar panels in order to reduce upfront costs.
Incentive Amount:
Windows: $2 - $4/sq. ft
Duct Sealing: $250
Insulation: 25% of cost up to $500
Heat Pumps: $500 (Upgrades); $2,000 (New)
Heat Pump Commissioning and Controls: $300
Ductless Heat Pumps: $500 - $1,000
Marathon Water Heater: $749 - $1,359
Heat Pump Water Heater: $300 - $600
Low Flow Shower Heads: Free
Clothes Washers: $30
Clothes Dryer: $50
Smart Power Strips: Free
LED Light bulbs: discounts vary
Smart Thermostat: $100
Energy Star New Home: $1,200
Generally speaking, a solar photovoltaic (PV) array can be used to power any household system or appliance that uses electricity. In the smallest case, you can use a solar water heating system.
There are a number of advantages of home solar energy. You can raise your property values, save money, and qualify for tax benefits. With the right storage equipment, solar panels can also offer you additional energy security and offer some protection from power outages.
Yes, it's possible to use home solar energy alongside conventional power sources. In most parts of the country, solar panels are designed to supplement your existing energy sources, meaning that you can reap the environmental benefits and savings that come from using solar energy without having to completely switch over.
Generally speaking, your energy bills will decrease significantly after you install solar panels. This is because you're using the energy you generate for free rather than buying it from your power company. In Springfield, the average amount someone can save is $899 per year. With net metering programs offered by many utilities, you could ultimately make a profit from your system after the payback period concludes.
While solar energy is a great option for many, it might not be ideal for homeowners in wet, dark areas. In these cases, a contractor might recommend other forms of renewable energy, such as wind or geothermal power, as a primary source. It is also important to speak to a qualified installer to determine if their solar system is compatible with the climate and environment of your area. Even if you choose a different form of renewable energy altogether, you'll still lower your emissions and could still qualify for distributed generation or other money-saving programs.
Yes, solar panels will still be able to generate 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 that offers battery backup systems or emergency generators.
With respect to taxes, the federal government offers a tax credit of up to 30% of the panels' cost. Depending on where you live, you could also claim or apply for state or property tax incentives. For insurance, your monthly premium may be slightly higher because solar panels increase your property's value. You should consult with your accountant or insurance agent for information specific to your case.
