Thinking about going solar? Whether you’re a homeowner aiming to cut your energy bills or a business owner looking for long-term savings and sustainability, asking the right questions up front can save you time, money, and frustration.
Here are the top five questions you should ask before moving forward with a solar installation:
1. Is My Property a Good Fit for Solar?
Not all roofs or properties are created equal. Key factors to consider include:
- Sun exposure throughout the day and across seasons
- Roof condition and orientation (south-facing is typically ideal)
- Available space for ground-mounted systems (for commercial sites or homes with limited roof space)
An experienced installer like Urban Solar will evaluate your site and provide an honest assessment of solar feasibility and expected performance.
2. What Size System Do I Need?
Your system should be sized to match your energy needs and your goals. Are you looking to offset 100% of your usage, or just reduce your peak loads?
Factors that influence system size include:
- Your past energy consumption (analyzed from utility bills)
- Planned changes to usage (like adding electric vehicles or expanding operations)
- Future energy goals, such as energy independence or net-zero targets
Commercial clients may also need to consider demand charges and load management.
3. What Are My Financing Options?
Solar systems can be purchased outright, leased, or financed through a loan. Each option has pros and cons:
- Cash purchase: Highest long-term ROI and full access to incentives
- Loan: Low or no money down, with ownership and tax benefits
- Lease/PPA: Minimal upfront cost, but reduced long-term savings
Urban Solar helps clients explore all available options, including federal tax credits, state rebates, and commercial depreciation strategies.
4. What’s the Payback Period and Long-Term ROI?
Most homeowners can expect a payback period of 6–10 years, while commercial systems may recoup costs in 3–7 years—thanks to higher usage and larger systems.
After that, your energy savings are essentially profit. A typical solar system lasts 25 years or more, making the long-term financial outlook highly favorable.
5. Who Will Handle Installation, Permits, and Maintenance?
A trustworthy solar partner will manage every part of the process:
- Design and engineering
- Permits and inspections
- Utility coordination
- Installation and quality assurance
- Ongoing monitoring and maintenance
With over 45 years in the industry, Urban Solar provides full-service solar solutions from start to finish—and we stand behind our work with strong warranties and responsive support.
Want Straight Answers to Your Solar Questions?
Urban Solar has been helping homeowners and businesses go solar since 1978. Contact us today for a free consultation and personalized answers to all your solar questions.
