Interested in a solar power kit
for your home?
Here are answers to frequently asked questions:
What size system should I get?
This depends entirely on how much money you want to spend and how much
power you want to produce. For help with this question, check out our
Solar Evaluation
page, where our solar experts can help you design a system that will
fit your needs and your budget.
Where
should I put the system?
Check out our how-to on deciding where to put your solar power system.
Are there incentives or rebates for installing solar power
systems on my home?
Yes! There is currently a federal tax credit of 30% for renewable
energy systems, with no cap on the credit. There are also hundreds of
local and state incentives. Check out solar power incentives for information
on local rebates. You can also contact your local power company as they
usually have a specific department to deal with these questions.
Will Solar Sphere help me install the system?
Yes! We have helped all over North America get solar systems installed
in hundreds of applications. We can custom design a system for you,
get the materials delivered to your door, and then connect you with
professional, qualified contractors that will help you install the system.
They can do everything from permit-to-production complete installs,
or simply make the final connections on a system you installed yourself.
We recommend that all buyers use a master electrician when making final
electrical connections and that safe building practices be followed
at all times. Check out our Solar Evaluation page for more information
on installation options.
Can I install this system myself?
Yes and no. If you have basic carpentry and electrical skills and tools,
most people can install a simple solar power kit. Our kits come complete
with drawings and instructions for you to follow. For many systems we
even have online videos that will show you how to install the rack systems.
OF course safety is major concern with any home project, and if you're
not comfortable working around electricity or roofs, we suggest that
you use a quailified contractor. For electrical connections to the grid
and home distribution systems, you MUST have a master electrician help
you.
Do I need permits?
The answer is pretty much always yes. This ensures that not only are
you following the rules of the building code, but that a building official
has looked at your system for proper installation technique. Our systems
come with drawings and equipment specifications to help you get this
permit. Most often you will just have to add a simple drawing showing
where the system will be installed.
Are these systems safe?
Yes, solar power kits and panels are safe. The voltage and amperage
going through most home systems is very small. But like any electrical
device, a healthy respect for electricity and basic understanding of
how they work will prevent most accidents. Check out our Learning
Center for more information. And, as always, don't attempt any work
that you're not completely comfortable doing!