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 Chesapeake residents adopt rooftop solar panels to add value to their property and provide a dependable source of power. Switching to solar energy can allow you to save money and shrink your carbon footprint, but you want to make sure you find a reputable installer. Luckily, we've reviewed the options and compiled a guide to the best and most reliable solar installation providers in Chesapeake.
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
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:
Going solar can be a great way to lower 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 imperative that your solar installer has the proper licensing. This ensures that the work is done correctly using the most up-to-date installation methods. Since 2012, Virginia's Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors installing solar photovoltaic systems. Even if a contractor has an AES license, they may still need to subcontract HVAC, plumbing or electrical work.
Check review sites like Google Reviews, TrustPilot, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to see feedback from past customers on local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you evaluate a company's reliability and customer service. Use caution with companies that have very few reviews or mostly negative ones.
To find a solar company that fits your budget, get free, detailed quotes from three to five providers. The quotes should list all costs as well as all solar equipment included. Comparing several quotes helps you identify the best value.
Top-notch solar installations should come with strong workmanship and performance guarantees. A workmanship warranty covers installation issues, such as poor wiring, cracks in the panels, or poor alignment. A performance warranty ensures a minimum energy output. Comprehensive warranties show that a solar company believes in its work.
Solar energy can help decrease your electric bills over time. When weighing the total price and value of solar panels, be sure to consider these factors.
The cost of home solar panels in Chesapeake varies depending on several factors, including the size of the system and the type of solar technology being used. Generally speaking, a typical solar energy system costs $3,590 per kilowatt, not including preliminary work, labor, or permit fees. Most solar systems in Chesapeake are 7.3 kilowatts, and the typical Chesapeake homeowners spends $18,339 after accounting for federal tax refunds. Some homeowners may prefer leasing their solar panels to reduce upfront costs.
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Deduction
Incentive Amount:
20% of the sales tax paid by an individual
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 advantages of home solar energy. You can qualify for tax benefits, raise your property values, and save money. With the right storage equipment, solar panels can also give 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 many areas, solar panels are designed to supplement your existing energy sources, which means you can reap the savings and environmental benefits of 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 Chesapeake, the average amount someone can save is $1,448 per year. With net metering programs offered by many utilities, you could ultimately make a profit from your system after the payback period concludes.
Net metering is a type of "power purchase agreement." If your state or utility offers net metering, you can return the solar energy you don't use to the grid. In return, they'll give you a credit on your power bill.
Absolutely. Solar panels exist independently from the power grid in Chesapeake and will continue to generate power even if the grid is having problems. Keep 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.
Ultimately, the answer will depend on your specific situation. You can take advantage of 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.
