Get matched with top solar panel pros in Vanderbilt, PA

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.

There are a few great questions to ask a solar contractor or inspector when you speak to them. You’ll probably want to find out about the energy yield and efficiency of your array, ensuring the actual output matches the amount you calculated when installing the array in the first place. It’s also a good idea to find out about any damage or wear and tear on the array and to inquire about how soon you need to make repairs or replacements to essential components.

There are a few qualifying questions you should ask a local solar panel company before hiring them:

• Will you handle permits for the installation?

• Does your total price include the equipment and labor?

• How long do you expect the installation process to take?

• What kind of workmanship warranty do you include with your installations?

• Who should I contact if I have a problem with my system after installation?

• Do you install the panels or outsource the work to third parties?

• Will you file for solar incentives for me?

The time it takes to install solar panels depends on the number of panels and the size of your home, but installation takes between two and three days of work. While most contractors can install the panels over the course of a couple of days, switching to solar energy can take two to three months in total. This includes the time it takes to design the system, procure the parts, obtain the permits, install the panels, connect to the main power grid, and get an inspection.