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 is one of the most easily accessible forms of renewable energy for Martinsville residents. Making the switch to solar power allows you to cut your utility bills and reduce your environmental impact. But you'll want to find a qualified installation company first. That’s why, after properly vetting providers, we put together a guide to the most reliable solar companies in Martinsville. These providers have a reputation for high-quality service.
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Free quotes
Clear pricing policy
Family-operated business
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Free quotes
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Clear pricing policy
Free quotes
Reliable customer support
Services Offered
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Reliable customer support
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 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.
Confirm that your solar installer is properly licensed. This ensures that the work is done properly using current best installation practices. Since 2012, the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation has issued Alternative Energy Systems (AES) licenses to contractors working on solar photovoltaic systems. A contractor with an AES license may need to subcontract HVAC, electrical or plumbing work.
Look at review platforms such as TrustPilot, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to find out what previous customers say about local solar companies. Reviews can give you an idea of a company’s reliability and customer service. Be wary of companies lacking reviews or with predominantly negative feedback.
Contact at least three solar companies for free, detailed quotes. Quotes should clearly explain all costs and list the exact solar components included. By comparing multiple quotes, you can identify the most cost-effective option for you.
Quality solar installations should have strong workmanship and performance guarantees. A workmanship warranty addresses any installation defects (such as cracks in the panels, poor alignment, or poor wiring), while a performance warranty ensures a certain level of energy production. Strong warranties show that a company is confident in its work.
Installing solar panels can help decrease your electric bills over time. When evaluating the total price and value of solar panels, be sure to consider these factors.
The average Martinsville homeowner will spend around $19,280 on a home solar system after federal tax refunds. Solar arrays in Martinsville cost roughly $3,590 per kilowatt, with an average size of 7.7 kilowatts. A personalized estimate from a local solar provider will include costs for preliminary work, labor, and permit fees, and will account for your system's panel type, size, and capacity. Some homeowners prefer to lease their solar panels in order 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) system can be used to power any household appliance or system that uses electricity. In the smallest case, you can use a solar water heating system.
There are many benefits to home solar energy. You can reduce emissions, raise your property values, and qualify for tax benefits. With the right storage equipment, solar panels can also give you additional energy security and offer some protection from power outages.
It depends on where you live and what type of panels you're installing. Since there's a moderate amount of snowfall in Martinsville, your best time to install solar panels is in the spring and fall.
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 Martinsville, the average amount someone can save is $1,478 per year. With net metering programs offered by many utilities, you could ultimately make a profit from your system when your payback period is done.
Although solar energy is an ideal option for many, it might not be ideal for homeowners in wet, dark areas. In these cases, you could consider 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.
Of course. Solar panels exist independently from the power grid in Martinsville and will continue to generate power even if the grid is having problems. Bear in mind, however, that a solar system without a storage system cannot keep you running through a nighttime outage. 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.
Regarding 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.
