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Yes, installing solar panels or a solar roof can increase your home's value by approximately 4% to 6%. For a home with a median value of $429,000, this could translate to an increase of around $17,000. A well-maintained solar installation appeals to environmentally-conscious buyers and those looking to lower their utility bills, often helping homes sell faster and at a premium in areas with high electricity rates. However, the exact increase in value depends on factors like the local real estate market, energy costs, and available solar incentives. It's also important that the system is correctly installed and maintained; an older or poorly maintained system may not add significant value, particularly if it's near the end of its lifespan. Other solar features, like panels on a shed, can also boost your home's value.

The best way to save money on solar panels is to take advantage of federal and state solar incentives. For example, the solar investment tax credit (ITC) offered by the federal government can save 30% of your total—if you can take the entire credit, which is based on income taxes owed—or an average of around $9,000. You can check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) for state and local incentives that could save you even more.

The best solar panels to withstand hail are those rated UL 61730. These solar panels are certified to withstand hailstones up to 3 inches in diameter and travel at speeds up to 88 mph. IP68 solar panels are the next most resilient solar panel. Solar panels without these ratings can handle hail up to 1 inch in diameter that travels up to 50 miles per hour. If you live in an area with frequent or severe hailstorms, purchasing UL 61730 solar panels is often worth the investment.

In most cases, solar panels are covered by homeowners insurance because they are considered a permanently attached part of the home, and you may not need additional coverage. However, it is essential to read the fine print of your specific policy to understand the extent of the coverage, as some policies might only cover certain types of damage, such as hail. Always check with your insurance provider before installing solar panels to ensure your policy provides adequate coverage for your investment.