Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
Expert Advice On Improving Your Home
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Written By David Cusick
Last Updated April 2024
Rooftop solar energy is becoming increasingly popular for York homeowners. A new solar energy system can help you decrease your carbon footprint, provide a dependable source of power, and add value to your property. Making the switch to solar power helps cut your utility bills and reduce your environmental impact. But you'll want to find a qualified installation company first. Luckily, we've done the research and compiled a guide to the best and most reputable solar installation providers in York.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Free quotes
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
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.
It's important to hire a licensed solar installer. This helps ensure that the work is done correctly using current best installation practices. South Carolina law draws a difference between mechanical and general contractors for solar energy work. A licensed mechanical contractor can install or repair any solar PV system rated for between 50 and 600 volts if they have an electrical Certificate of Authorization. Solar thermal installers need a Certificate of Authorization in plumbing and a supervising licensed plumber on their team.
Look at review platforms such as TrustPilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Google Reviews to find out what previous customers say about local solar installers. Reviews can give you an idea of a company’s trustworthiness and customer service. Be wary of companies lacking reviews or with predominantly negative feedback.
To find a solar installer that works with your budget, get free, detailed quotes from 3–5 providers. The quotes should outline all costs and list the solar equipment included. Comparing several quotes helps you identify the option that best fits your budget.
Quality solar installations should have strong workmanship and performance guarantees. A workmanship guarantee covers any installation defects (such as poor alignment, cracks in the panels, or poor wiring), while a performance guarantee ensures a certain level of energy production. Strong warranties demonstrate a company's confidence in its work.
Installing solar panels can help lower your electric bills over time. When weighing the total price and value of solar panels, be sure to consider these factors.
In York, solar panels cost an average of $3,450 per kilowatt, with an average system size of 8.1 kilowatts. The typical York homeowner spends $19,570 on their solar array after federal tax refunds. An estimate from a local provider will factor in additional information based on your desired system's panel type, size, capacity, and required preliminary work. In some cases, homeowners may prefer to lease solar panels to reduce upfront costs.
Incentive Amount:
Central Air Conditioning or Heat Pump: $300 - $400 + $50 with added smart thermostat
Geothermal Heat Pump: $400 + $50 with added smart thermostat
Heat Pump Water Heater: $350
Attic Insulation or Attic Air Sealing: $250
Duct Sealing: $100
Variable-Speed Pool Pumps: $300
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
100% exemption
Generally speaking, a solar photovoltaic (PV) system can be used to power any household appliance or system that uses electricity. In the smallest case, you can use a solar water heater.
With home solar energy, you can recoup the cost of the system over time, lower your home's carbon footprint, and gain additional energy independence.
It depends on your location and the kind of panels you plan to use. With the winter months in South Carolina being very mild, you have a lengthy window to install your panels, though they won't achieve peak performance until summer arrives.
Of course. The grid in York 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.
Your payback period is the time to earn a net profit from your solar panels. It will vary based on the average sunlight in your area, their rated capacity, and the rate your utility charges per kilowatt of power. York has extremely high daily sunlight levels, so you could recoup your investment in as little as 12.4 years per 5 kW of rated capacity.
Of course. Solar panels exist independently from the power grid in York and will continue to generate power even if the grid is having problems. Bear in mind, however, that a solar system won't take you through a nighttime outage if you don't have a storage system. Your contractor can discuss some economical options to keep your home's power access reliable through the worst conditions, including battery backups or an emergency generator.
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. As for insurance, your monthly premium may be slightly higher because solar panels increase your property's value. You should talk with your accountant or insurance agent for information specific to your case.
