Balanced Energy - Residential Solar FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions


« Learn About Monitoring	Getting Started »

Is my home a good candidate for solar? Do I get enough sunlight?

The two biggest factors are the amount sunlight you get throughout the day and the amount of open roof space. Climate is not really a concern because PV systems are relatively unaffected by severe weather. In fact, some PV modules actually work better in colder weather. There is enough sunlight to make solar energy systems useful and effective almost anywhere in the world.

When you call, we will use satellite technology to evaluate your property and provide you with a quick assessment. If you are a good candidate for solar, we will schedule a free on-site solar consultation where one of our experts will survey your site to evaluate the best system for your needs. Our solar expert will provide you with a detailed proposal for your optimal solar system.

Back to Top

Is it difficult to switch over to solar power?

No. Balanced Energy makes it easy to switch to solar. We will get your solar system up and running as quickly and smoothly as possible so that you can start saving money and using clean energy. You won't experience any changes inside your home.

Back to Top

Will I need to adapt my home to run on solar power?

No. Solar electric systems fit seamlessly onto your roof. For an additional aesthetic appeal, some modules resemble traditional roof shingles or can be built right into glass skylights and walls. You won't have to buy new appliances or change your electrical outlets; everything will work just the same as it did before. You should experience no practical changes except for one: you will be generating free power ever month!

Back to Top

How much does a solar electric system cost?

Depending on your location and the type of installation, the price will vary. Typically, it is between $6.50/watt to $7.50/watt before rebates and incentives (which can save more than 50% of the cost).

Back to Top

What size solar electric system do I need?

Every home is different, so the size of your system will depend on your energy needs, roof space and solar goals. Residential solar systems are typically 3-10 kW. Balanced Energy will design a system to meet your specific needs and offset as much of your utility bill as you desire.

Back to Top

Do I need permits to meet local building codes?

Balanced Energy will obtain all building permits and design your system to meet your local building codes. We'll arrange the electrical, building and utility inspections and be on-site to make sure that everything is up to code. Balanced Energy takes care of your project every step of the way.

Back to Top

How long will it take to get my new solar system up and running?

A typical residential roof installation takes about 3-5 days from the day we begin the installation. The length of time depends on the complexity of your roof and the number of panels that will be installed. The estimated installation time will be included in the design proposal presented to you by Balanced Energy.

Back to Top

What happens at night, or when it's cloudy outside?

Since the amount of power your solar system generates is a direct result of sunlight, it will produce slightly less energy when the weather is cloudy. Your system will not produce any energy at night. Your Balanced Energy power system will be interconnected to your locally utility grid, so that you can automatically begin to draw power from the grid whenever you need it. You won't experience any power interruptions. The switch between solar system power and the utility grid happens seamlessly, with no effort on your part.

Back to Top

Do I need a special type of roof?

Balanced Energy can do an installation on any type of roofing: composite shingle, wood shake, flat tile, Spanish tile, or ceramic tile. If you do not want the solar installed on the roof, you can also utilize a ground mount. Most homeowners who have a lot of available unshaded acreage choose this type of installation. Besides the roof and ground, you can also install the modules on a car port, garage, patio cover, or on poles. A south facing roof or ground area without shading is ideal, but even west facing roofs or hillsides can work with minimal efficiency losses.

Back to Top

What if my roof needs to be repaired after I've installed solar panels?

Ideally, you should install solar panels on a roof that is in good condition. When a Balanced Energy solar expert comes out to inspect your home prior to installation, he or she will check to make sure that your roof is suitable for a solar installation. Once the solar panels are installed, they actually help to protect your roof from the elements. If you should ever need to make repairs on the roof, the solar panels will need to be removed and re-installed. Balanced Energy offers this service for a reasonable fee.

Back to Top

Are the solar panels fragile?

No. While the panels are made of tempered glass, they are quite strong. They are submitted to extreme weather testing, even passing hail tests.

Back to Top

What maintenance is required?

Since there are no moving parts, the system is basically maintenance free. If it does not rain in your area that often, you may only need to wash the modules to remove dust and debris every now and then.

Back to Top

Do I need a battery back-up system?

No. Battery systems are expensive and are not recommended. All Balanced Energy solar systems are connected to the utility grid so you always have access to a power source. You never have to worry about "running out" of power.

Back to Top

How long will a solar system last?

Most of the parts on your solar system, such as solar panels, carry manufacturer's warranties of 25 years; other parts, such as inverters, carry 10-year warranties. The system will have an expected life span of approximately 30 to 40 years.

Back to Top

What is NABCEP?

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, NABCEP is the national certification organization for professional installers in the field of renewable energy. NABCEP issues voluntary certification credentials to those qualified professionals who satisfy eligibility requirements established by the Board of Directors.

Back to Top

Are the government rebates and incentives substantial? How long will they last?

The incentives and rebates are both real and substantial. State and federal governments offer tremendous financial incentives for choosing solar. A combination of incentives and tax credits can cover 50% or more of the total cost! The most important thing to keep in mind about these governmental programs is that they won't last forever. Now is the time to take advantage of the federal and state mandate to switch to renewable sources of energy; once the adoption rate reaches a certain level, the incentives will disappear.

Back to Top

Does a solar system make financial sense for me?

Solar is a smart financial investment because you will save money on electrical costs for years to come and increase your home value. Our customers typically see a strong Return on Investment (ROI) and expect to recoup their solar system investment within 2-3 years on solar thermal and 5-10 years on solar electric. Depending on the rebates and incentives offered in your area, you may be able to pay back your system even sooner.

Back to Top

Is it really an investment?

Sure is! For example:

- If you put $20,000 in the stock market or IRA, what will you have in 20 years?
- If you put $30,000 in a new car, what is it worth in 10 years?

Energy conservation and renewable generation adds value to a home. Surveys have shown that for every $1,000.00 in energy costs saved per year, $20,000.00 is added to a home's value. With A 15-25% annual return, solar energy can be one of the best investments you make.

Back to Top

Will I get a better deal if I wait longer to install solar?

Now is really the best time to invest in a solar system with the combination of technology and cost. Governments, municipalities and utilities are currently offering generous rebates and incentives to go solar. However, these programs are designed to stimulate the economy and reward early adopters so the incentives will drop as the allotted funds are consumed.

Back to Top

What are the running costs of a solar water heating system?

The running cost of solar water heaters is almost non-existent. The only energy consumed by the whole system is a small circulation pump. If the solar system was providing hot water to the hot water cylinder for 10 hours per day, every day of the week, then a typical circulation pump would cost approximately 20 cents per week to run.

Back to Top

What size solar water heating system should I install?

There should be 10-15 square feet of solar panels for each person in the household and the storage tank should hold 20-30 gallons per person.

Back to Top

Where can I place solar thermal panels (solar water heaters)?

Solar water heaters can be placed on a roof, on a wall, or on the ground. The roof is the most common location used for solar since it is normally unused space and it keeps the panels out of the way. Wall mounting is often utilized when there is not enough suitable roof space.

Back to Top

What direction should solar water heaters face?

South-facing is best, but there is limited reduction in energy output from South-East to South-West. There can be as little as a 15% annual decrease if they face directly East or West when compared with South-facing installations.

Back to Top

I have a Heat Pump. Are solar water heaters of any use to me?

Yes, heat pumps and solar water heaters have different functions. The primary function of a heat pump is to heat space but it can heat water cheaply, much cheaper than oil, but only to approximately 131�F. Solar water heaters heat the water to full temperature virtually FREE and will do so for many decades with virtually no ongoing monthly costs. Solar water heaters can heat water to 176�F and above.

Back to Top

Do I need permits to install a solar hot water system?

Planning permission is no longer required for small to medium size solar installations on domestic buildings provided. Balanced Energy will handle everything needed for your installation which can be complete in 1 day.

Back to Top

What is the life span and warranty on solar how water systems?

Balanced Energy solar water heaters have a long life span because of their high quality construction and few moving parts. The outer casing of the panels is made of aluminum, which does not degrade over time. The only moving part is the circulation pump which lasts 10-15 years and is a common, low cost item that is easily replaced.

Back to Top

Will a Solar Pool Heater heat my pool?

Of course! A properly sized system will raise pool temperatures 10-15 degrees. A solar blanket will help hold in this heat at night or when it's windy, and can help the system do even more.

Back to Top

Can a Solar Pool Heater also cool my pool?

During the hottest part of the summer, running the solar system at night can cool a pool to a more refreshing swimming temperature - down several degrees in one night if the conditions are right.

Back to Top

Where can I put the solar panels?

Anywhere that the panel will be in full sun for most of the day. The panel should face south if possible, but west is the next best. Lay it on grass, gravel, landscaping bark or the like, or mount it on a platform, rack or deck. Mounting at a 20o to 45o angle with the ground will help maximize efficiency.

Back to Top

Should I use a pool cover with a solar pool heating system?

A pool cover prevents evaporation loss, particularly at night. The cover traps the solar heat that has been added during the day. This is very complementary to the solar system. The solar system can be viewed as actively adding heat. The cover retains that heat passively.

Back to Top

For a free consultation, call Balanced Energy at 1-877-897-SOLAR
or click here for the online request form.

Balanced Energy will�

Evaluate the solar savings and costs for your home

Determine which rebates you will receive

Prepare a detailed quote and solar design for your home

Start Saving Today!

We are happy to provide you with a free solar assessment for your home. For more information, simply contact us below.