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Semper Solaris Blog

As of December 2022, there were over 1.5 million homes and businesses that had rooftop solar panels in California. This number is bound to keep going up as we become more eco-conscious. Perhaps you've saved up enough money, and you're ready to become a solar energy user too. In that case, you'll need the best solar installers to ensure you're getting your money's worth. If you're looking for the best solar companies in San Diego, California, then look no further than Semper Solaris. Read on to see what services and benefits we offer! Solar Panel Installation Of course, we perform solar panel installations for San Diego residents. We have a team of verified professionals who are always punctual, as we know your time is precious. In addition, we only use products from top manufacturers. That way, your solar panel system will stay in great condition for years to come. Battery Storage Installation You can get solar panels on their own, but we highly recommend that you have a battery installed too. This allows you to store excess power to use during peak hours, which can save you money in the long run. Plus, you can have reliable power when there are rolling blackouts. Not to mention, you can also sell this excess power back to the grid for extra cash. Semper Solaris has won multiple awards for being the top solar and storage installer around like the Solar Power World Top Solar Contractor’s Award and Inc 5000 award, so you can have complete faith in our expert team. We can install the Tesla Powerwall and Enphase battery for you. Roofing Replacements To help you save even more money, as well as time, one of the many Semper Solaris services available is roofing replacements. A new roof can improve your home's energy efficiency and decrease your utility bills. While we're up there installing solar panels, we can also give you a new roof. This helps align maintenance schedules so interruptions to your daily life are minimized. Since 2019, we've consistently won awards from Owens Corning for our excellent roofing services. HVAC Services In general, HVAC systems last between 15 to 25 years. Even if yours is decades old and seems like it's in good condition, it's best if you replace it since it probably isn't as energy efficient anymore. New HVAC units can be hooked up to your new solar panel system too. Semper Solaris can provide you with heating and air conditioning units that are made in America. Also, they come with lifetime warranties, so if anything goes wrong, you can count on us to rectify it. Choose From the Best Solar Companies in San Diego, California When looking at the best solar companies in San Diego, California, you'll quickly realize that Semper Solaris is who you need to choose. With our years of experience and quality products, you'll definitely get your money's worth. Plus, we're a local and veteran-owned company. We'll bring military values to our work and provide you with exemplary service. If you'd like to experience any Semper Solaris benefits yourself, then book an appointment with us now!

When you choose to install solar panels, it's important to have the right solar installer for the job. If you want to take advantage of everything solar panels have to offer, it's essential that you have the right materials and installation. A solar panel system that's too small or has been poorly installed isn't going to give you what you need to cover your energy usage. Today, we'll tell you how to get the best solar installation in El Cajon. Over 14,000 megawatts of solar were installed in California last year alone. There are many great solar companies making this happen, so keep reading and let us help direct you to the best one. Solar Company Reputation The first thing to look at when choosing a solar company is its reputation. Installing solar panels is a big job that alters your home, so you need to trust the people doing it. You can get a sense of your solar installer's reputation by taking a look at the online ratings and reviews. Look for major red flags in the reviews. Issues with installation, major equipment failures, and customer service issues are all common problems for lesser solar installers. Pick three to five of the top-rated companies to contact for estimates. Warranties and Insurance When you're talking to these companies, you'll need to discuss timelines, installation cost, and equipment selection. What plenty of homeowners tend to overlook, however, are warranties and insurance. You need to make sure that you have both service and equipment warranties on your solar panels. Without them, you could be on the hook for any mistakes that your solar installer and manufacturer make. General liability insurance is essential anytime you have home services working at your home. If any damage happens to your property and the company doesn't have insurance, you'll have to pay for it. Equipment Options Your solar installer should be able to offer you a wide range of the best solar panels and battery storage. Every homeowner's needs are different and a good solar installer will be able to cater their services and products to what is best for you. Solar Knowledge Lastly, solar installers should be able to answer any questions you might have about going green. For example, most homeowners want to know about the many solar incentives that become available when you install panels. It's a good idea to come up with a list of questions to ask different solar companies. The ones that can best answer your questions are probably viable candidates to install your solar panel system. Get the Best Solar Installation in El Cajon There are dozens of solar companies in El Cajon, but if you want reliable solar installation, you need Semper Solaris. We offer veteran-owned and operated solar installation in El Cajon with an A-rating on BBB.  Contact us today to learn more about our special offers and discuss your solar needs with one of our dedicated and knowledgeable professionals. With our help, going green can be quick and painless.

It may surprise you to learn that nearly 4% of homes in the US have solar panels as of 2020. This number is projected to climb even higher in the future. While going solar has plenty of benefits, many people wonder if the state of California offers incentives for residential solar energy. We've put together a brief guide that has the key information you should know. Let's explore what to keep in mind before choosing solar companies in San Diego. California Solar Initiatives (CSI) In 2016, the state government decided that direct solar incentives were no longer necessary. Instead, it focuses on supporting the development of renewable energy. However, those who use solar power can apply to the state programs like the Net Energy Metering Program (NEM). This provides financial credit for customer-generated power. Net Energy Metering Program (NEM) The amount of credit you receive is proportionate to the amount of energy you transfer to the grid. Those who join this program must pay a one-time interconnection fee. They have to pay small charges for each net kilowatt-hour. Customers are required to accept service on a Time of Use (TOU) rate. Although these fees can be off-putting, those in San Diego can use this program to save substantial money on their SDGE net metering rates. Virtual Net Energy Metering (VNEM) Owners of multi tenant properties can use this program to provide renewable energy benefits across multiple units. They can allocate renewable energy generation credits to the areas of the property that need the most. This is great news for property owners, as it can allow you to get the most out of your solar energy credits. Renewable Energy Credits (REC) In the event that excess energy is transferred to the grid, customers could receive renewable energy credits. Before they can do so, their generator must be certified by the California Energy Commission. They must also register their generation facility with the Western Renewable Energy Generation Information System. Due to the time and resources it takes to join this program, it often isn't worth it for small-generation facilities to enroll. Choosing Solar Companies in San Diego It's crucial to research a company’s past reputation when searching for solar in San Diego. There should be no shortage of clients who are pleased with their results. Look into the pricing structure, as well. The last thing you want is to encounter financial surprises. Do they often work with similar customers? To get the best results, you'll want to find someone with plenty of experience in helping customers like you meet their solar needs. Get Started Today It's best to take advantage of California solar incentives as soon as possible. As long as you work with reputable solar companies in San Diego, like Semper Solaris, you'll be sure to meet your needs and avoid issues you may have otherwise dealt with. Reach out to our San Diego office to see how we can help. Our team is ready to get you started on the right track.

Did you know that just one and a half hours of sunlight can power the entire Earth for a year? It may sound like an unbelievable concept, but it's a fascinating reality thanks to the vast energy potential of solar power. Solar energy is one of the most abundant and renewable sources of power available to us. Let's discover the power of a solar storage battery in El Cajon and unlock the potential of sustainable energy for your home. Are you wondering how long your home can run off your solar battery? This guide is designed to equip you with everything you need to know about solar battery storage in El Cajon. Let's learn more about solar energy and how to harness its potential with solar panels and a reliable battery system. What Is Solar Battery Storage? Solar battery storage changes how we use solar energy. It lets us store excess electricity generated by solar panels. In El Cajon, where sunshine is abundant, using solar battery storage becomes a smart investment. A solar battery acts as a reservoir for energy, capturing and storing surplus power during peak sun hours. This stored energy can then be tapped into during periods of low solar production. For example, you can use the reservoir at night or on cloudy days. Best Batteries For Solar Power Storage Choosing the right storage battery for your solar energy system is essential for maximizing efficiency and longevity. Opt for batteries with high storage capacity and excellent performance in El Cajon, where the sun's intensity varies throughout the year.  Today solar batteries boast cutting-edge technology that ensures maximum energy retention and discharge. With a storage capacity of up to 10 kWh, some batteries can power an average-sized home in El Cajon for several hours. This, of course, depends on energy consumption and weather conditions. Investing in the best batteries for solar power storage guarantees a smooth transition to sustainable energy. Pros and Cons of Solar Battery Storage  Like any technology, there are pros and cons of solar battery storage. Let's look at the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision for your El Cajon home: Let's start with the pros of solar battery storage. Energy Independence Solar battery storage can reduce your dependence on the grid and help you enjoy energy independence. You control how and when you use the stored energy, providing peace of mind during power outages. Reduced Energy Bills You can reduce your power bills by tapping into your stored solar energy during peak utility rate hours. Sometimes you can even earn credits for excess energy fed back into the grid. Environmental Impact Using solar energy and battery storage reduces your carbon footprint. This contributes to a cleaner environment and a greener future. Let's now look at the cons of solar battery storage. Initial Investment Installing solar panels and a battery system involves an upfront cost. However, with the right provider and financing options, the benefits, in the long run, far outweigh the initial investment. Limited Storage Capacity While solar batteries have advanced significantly, they may still have limitations. These limitations include storing excess energy for extended periods of high consumption or cloudy days. Maintenance of the Batteries Solar batteries, like any electronic device, require periodic maintenance and monitoring. This is to ensure optimal performance. Solar Battery in El Cajon for Your Home Let's determine how long your El Cajon home can run off your solar battery. A 10 kWh capacity battery can power your home for several hours during peak sunlight hours. It can also continue to provide energy during the night. On average, it can cover around 30-60% of your daily energy needs, depending on your household's consumption and solar panel output. Solar Battery Storage El Cajon: A Brighter Future! Congratulations! You are now equipped to use a solar battery in El Cajon! You can store energy and see how it can transform your El Cajon home. To start your solar journey, connect with us and book an appointment now! We are a leader in providing solar energy in El Cajon.

According to the National Solar Jobs Census, the U.S. solar industry employed 263,883 solar workers in 2022. That's 3.5% more than in 2021. In this way, by choosing solar panels manufactured locally for your installation, you're helping boost the economy and keep Americans employed. We're proud to say that Semper Solaris in San Diego only uses American-made solar panels in our installations. Keep reading to find out why we choose these top brands. How Do Solar Panels Impact Your Solar Installation? Solar panel prices increased by 5% in 2022 for residential installations. That means it now costs around $21,000 to install a home solar panel system in San Diego. This is a major investment for most homeowners, but you will enjoy substantial savings on your electricity bill as a result. Your solar panels play a huge role in how much you'll save when you go solar, so you must ensure you get the best solar panels in San Diego when you switch over. The different types of solar panels have varying efficiencies. For instance, Silfab PERC Solar Panels have an efficiency rating of 20% and a 30-year power warranty. U.S.-manufactured QCell solar panels have a 22% efficiency rating and an average lifespan of 25 years. By contrast, cheap imported polycrystalline panels have an average efficiency rating of just 15%.  The Benefits of Installing America's Best Solar Panels Silfab and Q-Cell solar panels are among America's best-selling solar panels, and for good reason. This is what they have to offer: Q-Cell Solar Panels Q-Cells started under the banner of Hanwha Q-Cells in Germany and later in South Korea. Over time, the company expanded globally. Their solar assembly facility in Dalton, Georgia, is now the largest in the Western Hemisphere, with a manufacturing capacity of 3.1 GW. The manufacturer guarantees their panels will produce 98% of their rating in the first year. After that, they degrade by only 0.54% annually. Silfab Solar Panels Silfab has its origins in North America and has locations in Bellingham, Washington State, and Ontario, Canada. It's one of the country's leading solar panel manufacturers and a preferred provider for both the FAA and U.S. military properties. The company offers two main products, namely Silfab Prime and Silfab Elite. Silfab Elite panels have PERC technology and back-contact solar cells, which maximize the solar energy collected by each cell. The Silfab Prime panels have half-cut solar cells, to reduce resistive losses within the solar panel and thus produce more energy. Smaller cells also help increase the solar panels' durability. Work With Semper Solaris in San Diego As one of the best local solar companies, Semper Solaris in San Diego is committed to providing our customers with only the best service and materials. That's why we only use American-made Q-Cell and Silfab solar panels. These locally-produced technologies support our economy and ensure ongoing employment for our people. They're also by far the best solution for San Diego homeowners who want to maximize their solar investment. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you slash your utility bills and reduce your carbon emissions.

California is one of the sunniest states in the U.S. It is also the leading producer of solar energy. If you are lucky enough to call California home, going solar may seem like an attractive option for the environment and your wallet. Even still, it's normal to have questions and concerns before you take the plunge.  This article will consider the factors that make solar worth it in California. We'll also talk about how the best solar company in El Cajon can help you make an easy transition to solar. Abundant Sunshine California is blessed with an abundance of sunshine throughout the year. The state's geographic position and climate contribute to higher solar panel efficiency. This translates into more electricity generation and potentially higher savings on energy bills. Solar Incentives In addition to the Federal Solar Tax Credit (which allows you to claim up to 30% of your installation costs on your taxes), California also has some of its own incentive programs for going solar. Some examples include: Disadvantaged Communities-Single-Family Solar Homes (DAC-SASH) Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) Solar Energy System Property Tax Exclusion Equity Resilience Incentives Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for one of these special programs.  Moreover, those seeking residential solar in El Cajon can take advantage of these special offers from Semper Solaris. Net Energy Metering California has a net metering (NEM) policy. This allows solar panel system owners to sell the excess electricity they generate back to the grid and receive credits for surplus electricity. This offsets future electricity bills during periods of lower solar generation. Energy Savings With rising electricity costs, solar panel installations can lead to significant long-term savings. By generating your electricity, you can reduce your dependence on utility providers. As electricity costs rise, you can rest easy knowing you won't be affected.  Environmental Impact By transitioning to solar energy, homeowners and businesses can reduce their carbon footprint. By doing so, they contribute to California's efforts in combating climate change. This environmentally conscious decision aligns with the state's ambitious clean energy goals. Home Value Increase Studies have shown that solar panels can increase a property's value, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Homes equipped with solar installations tend to sell faster and at a premium. That means that the initial solar panel cost will pay off if you decide to sell your residence.  Energy Independence With solar panels, homeowners gain a sense of energy independence. They become less reliant on the grid and are better prepared for potential power outages or natural disasters, ensuring a more stable and secure energy supply. Rain or shine, you won't have to worry about losing power.  Going Solar in California Pays Off There are plenty of reasons to consider solar installation in El Cajon. Not only does it benefit you and your property, but it's also a great way to reduce your impact on the environment. Of course, you may still have some concerns, and if so, Semper Solaris can help!  We would be happy to provide you with a quote and answer your questions about going solar in California. If you live in the area, contact us for more information!   

Surveys show that there are more than 3 million solar energy installations in the United States. As that number quickly climbs, many people find themselves interested in solar panels and Tesla battery storage. But how much power can you get out of a solar battery backup in San Diego? If you're curious about installing solar, Powerwall, or both, we're here to help. Read on to learn more about your residential solar installation and how long your solar battery will last on a charge. Factors That Affect Your Solar Powerwall Unfortunately, there's no one number for how long all Tesla Powerwall units will last. However, if you understand the factors involved, you can calculate or accurately guesstimate the duration. Here are some of the factors that affect your unit's performance. Tesla Solar Panels and Battery Storage To start, you should look at what size battery you have. Not all solar battery units are the same size. It may seem too simple to say, but a smaller battery will not last as long as a larger battery. A larger battery generally has a bigger capacity, meaning it holds more power. Smaller batteries are more common in modest homes or mobile dwellings. Additionally, a smaller solar battery may not last as long in terms of its overall lifespan. These batteries experience wear and tear every time they charge and discharge. Low-capacity batteries need to charge and discharge more often, making them wear down quicker. Energy Needs Another important factor is the energy needs of your home. If two batteries hold the same amount of power, which runs out first? The answer is whichever one is used more. Consider the days you've used your cell phone more often and how much quicker the battery drains. If you use your solar battery non-stop and consume its power, it will drain quicker than if you weren't using it beyond simple utilities. Battery Age Finally, the age of your battery will affect how long it lasts. The Tesla Powerwall lasts anywhere between 10-20 years. Frequent use or the environment you live in will change this lifespan. For example, a battery in the heat of Arizona will deteriorate faster than one in temperate parts of New England. As your battery ages, it won't hold a charge as long. This issue is common among all electronic devices. If you notice your battery is draining faster than it should discharge, contact us. We'll happily come and survey your battery to see what's causing the issue. If the battery is at the end of its lifespan, we can help you easily replace the unit. Solar Battery Backup in San Diego Your Tesla solar panels and battery storage will die out faster if your energy consumption is high. Keep tabs on your solar Powerwall to monitor if it's running out of power too quickly. If you see issues with your solar battery, such as a power outage or damage, have it replaced. For more help with your energy needs, be sure to contact us today!

Few home improvements make the impact that you will get when you decide to go solar.  The Department of Energy says that installing solar panels is one of the most important ways that residents can affect climate change while also improving their homes. There are also several other benefits that you can experience, and even better, several professionals that now specialize in these systems.  So, how much do solar panels cost? These tips will help you when you're searching for the best solar companies in San Diego and need to handle some preliminary research.  Understanding the Cost of Solar Panel Installation The best way to explore the cost of solar panels is by getting several price quotes. Talk to a handful of different solar installation pros so that you have an idea of what the market in San Diego offers.  Finding the help of a local solar panel professional gives you the chance to find a good deal on your panels. The cost of solar panels will depend on the brand, quality, size, and the amount of labor involved.  You should also consider the fact that the government offers tax credits, which you can take advantage of. This can also offer a sizable discount so you save some money on the installation.  Why Solar Is Impactful Now that you know the factors that affect the cost of your panels, make sure you also know why these panels are worth every penny. For one, a solar power system helps you update your home so that you build equity in it and keep it more modern.  It's also an incredible investment in sustainability so that your home and lifestyle are more green-friendly. Ask your professional about the energy efficiency ratings of the panels that you're getting ready to purchase.  You'll also appreciate that installing solar panels can help you save money. They'll help you cut out the high cost of your electrical bill since you're switching from municipal power.  Solar panels make it so that your home isn't reliant on the energy grid. Saving money in this way can help you become more financially savvy and responsible as a whole.  Hiring Quality Solar Panel Work  You have an obligation to find the best solar companies in San Diego. This lets you know that the work will be done correctly and with the highest level of craftsmanship. A solar contractor in San Diego will help you shop for the best panels and accessories, and will also make sure that the work is aesthetically pleasing.  If needed they'll also help you shop for the best solar battery San Diego has to offer, and can sell you a warranty that protects the total package.    Do Business With the Best Solar Companies in San Diego The tips above are excellent when you need to do business with the best solar companies in San Diego. Take the time and effort to shop around for these panels to do what's best for your home.  Semper Solaris is happy to help you from there. If you need help with your solar installation, schedule an appointment with our team of professionals.

Most years, damaged roofs account for between 70% and 90% of the total catastrophic losses in homes. The chaos that happens when a roof starts to fail can be overwhelming. There's the stress of cleaning up the problems in the house as well as tackling the roof as well. The last thing you need is to be let down by your roofers.  Finding a reliable roofer is important to get all your issues resolved. There's nothing more frustrating than working with bad roofing contractors, especially when they either don't finish your job or don't do it well.  Read on to learn all the steps you should take to find the best team for all roofing in El Cajon.  Look for a Company with Plenty of Experience One of the first things you should do when hiring a roofer is look for a company with a lot of experience. A company that has this kind of longevity must be providing good service.  Experience also means they'll know how to deal with all different kinds of problems. After so many years, there really can't be many surprises anymore. Knowing how to deal with issues saves time and money on your end!  Check for Insurance and Warranties  A big threat you face when hiring any kind of contractor is being scammed by an illegitimate company. So you want to focus your search on Better Business Bureau roofers.  Another way to tell if a company is real is if they have insurance. This covers them in the case of any accident that occurs on the job site. It's also a good idea to check for warranties offered on the work done.  Meet for a Consultation and Ask Questions Once you've found a viable option, you'll want to meet with the team in person. This gives you the opportunity to go over any questions you may have about getting your roof fixed. A consultation also helps you get a feel for their team and how well they'll fit your needs.  Get a Detailed Quote  Before making any final decisions, you'll want to get a detailed quote for the entire job. This should outline each step and everything you'll be charged for. A professional quote should help you feel confident in the work that's going to be done. The more you know what to expect, the better prepared you'll feel.   Avoid Bad Roofing Contractors With These Tips Working with bad roofing contractors takes an already hard thing and makes it so much worse.  Taking a little extra time to find the right roofing company can make all of the difference. You can feel confident that your roof replacement is going to be done the way you want it to be. And that you'll be able to trust the work done for years to come.  Our team of expert roofers can handle any job you need. They feel strongly about doing a great job roofing in El Cajon. If you're interested, book an appointment today! 

Nearly 70% of homeowners want to go solar. The number of solar powered homes is on the rise, but what's holding some homeowners back from making the jump? Unsurprisingly, the answer is cost. At Semper Solaris, the number one question we answer is, "Will solar panels make financial sense for my household?" Many homeowners can benefit financially from going solar, but it will depend on factors ranging from the solar payback period by state to the current cost of your electric bills. Read on to find out if solar power is the right financial choice for your household. Solar Power Generation You stand to save the most money if you can offset 100% of your electricity use. First, you'll need to know how much solar power you can generate on your property. Homes that can generate the most solar energy typically have south-facing roofs with no shaded areas. The size and condition of your roof will also play a role in how many panels you can install. Even something as simple as your region's cloud coverage can impact your ability to generate solar power over time. Current Electricity Use We're facing inflation across the nation, but the surge in electricity prices is outpacing the increase in inflation. In 2022, electric bills rose an average of almost 15%. If your home is a good candidate for solar panels, the next thing to determine is your electric bill before and after solar panels. You can get a rough estimate of long-term savings by multiplying your annual electricity costs by 25-30 years, the current lifespan of most solar panels. For example, if you spend $1200 on electricity each year and offset electricity use by 100%, you will avoid up to $36,000 in electric bills. Solar Payback Period by State Of course, the raw amount of electricity savings is impacted by the cost of solar panels themselves. The solar payback period is the amount of time it takes to pay for your solar panels before you're saving money free and clear of solar payments, and it varies by state. Your state's solar payback period will reflect: How much energy you use How much solar power you generate The cost of your system The cost of electricity in your area Any state or local incentives (on top of federal tax incentives) It typically takes homeowners 8-10 years to pay off solar panels and installation. Putting tax incentives toward these costs can speed up the payback period and reduce your overall investment.  Want a Thorough Financial Evaluation? Contact Semper Solaris For many homeowners across the nation, solar power provides a clear financial benefit. However, your potential savings will depend on everything from the solar payback period by state to your state and local solar tax breaks to your energy consumption.  The best way to get an accurate financial evaluation is to work with a solar provider. Contact Semper Solaris to book an appointment and find out more about how much you stand to save by going solar.