Semper Solaris Blog
You’ve probably seen plenty of advertisements on how going solar can save the planet and put money back in your pocket. You may be wondering if this is all just fluff or if there is any truth to the claims. The truth is that it depends. Just like getting a new roof can be a valuable investment, if you don’t get the right type of roof for the elements or have it installed poorly, the investment could come back to haunt you. Solar installation can be very similar. If you want to add significant value to your home, you need to understand what your solar needs are and what installation options are available to you. You need to find the right solar company who can install quality panels and the correct system size. Huntington Beach is a beautiful area that offers a great perk to homeowners -- lots of sunshine. While having great weather is always a plus, this comes as a serious perk for those considering solar panel installation. Southern California is simply a prime location for solar panels, especially considering the high electricity expenses and general cost of living. With volatile electricity rates, investing in solar can provide stability and sustainability for both homeowners and the environment. So how do you determine the value of adding solar panels in Huntington Beach? We explore the potential value and benefits below. How Solar Panels Can Add Real Value to Your Home Several studies, including one done by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, have confirmed that having solar panels installed on a home in California can add value to your property. But how much value do they add? It seems the average number was around a 3% to 4% increase in property value, with homebuyers being consistently willing to pay the higher cost for homes with solar panels. The study found that this ranged around $15,000 for homes with average-sized systems in place. Before you expect to be able to add that number to your home price tag when selling, however, it is important to think through the additional factors that could impact the added value. Generally speaking, the following details may factor into the overall price bump from solar panels: Brand and quality of PV panel installed (trusted name, higher grade, etc.)Amount of peak sun exposure the panels get on a daily basisSize of the entire solar panel system (as well as any solar battery storage like Tesla Powerwall)The size of your solar panel system in comparison to the electricity needs of the householdIf the system is owned or being leased from a third party Of course, the starting value of a house as well as current market prices will also impact how much more value solar panels will provide. You can further increase the actual net value for yourself by ensuring you take advantage of all incentives, rebates, and tax credits available to you at the time as well. By reducing your upfront cost, you ensure that you enjoy the full added value of solar panels on your home. Can Solar Panels Help Your Home Sell Faster? From kitchen remodels to bathroom upgrades, there are certain projects you invest in with the hope that it will make your home more valuable and marketable. Having value added to your home can be great news, but how does that help you if you can’t sell your home? Thankfully, solar panels can be one of those property investments that does both. The Department of Energy found that there was evidence that homes in California that had solar panel energy systems installed (and were owned by the homeowner) were selling faster than comparable homes on the market that weren’t as energy efficient. This means that solar panels don’t just add great value to your home, but can actually make it more marketable and easier for you to sell in the long run. Not Looking to Sell Your House? Here’s How You Can Still Save. So you want to add value to your home but aren’t planning on selling anytime soon -- solar is still a great option. Why? Unlike a bathroom or kitchen remodel, solar panels don’t go out of style. The renewable energy trend is here to stay for decades to come. That means you can have peace of mind adding solar panels to your home, even if you aren’t planning on selling until further down the road. Solar panels typically come with performance warranties ranging from 20 to 30 years. That’s a long time for a sustainable energy system to be powering your home. More than that, some solar panels could last around 80 to 100 years, performing at solid efficiency despite expected degradation -- even after decades of use and exposure to the elements! Having high-quality panels installed by a trusted solar contractor can also help ensure the lifespan of your solar panels is worth the investment. Though maintenance and upkeep is not usually a concern when it comes to solar modules, having the right company install your panels ensures that if any bumps do occur down the road, someone will be there to make it right and assist you so that you don’t have to deal with any inconveniences! Find Out the Value Solar Can Add to Your Home Going solar is an investment -- one that can be very smart based on the value and marketability it can add to your home. That doesn’t even include the benefits you get to enjoy on a monthly basis with reduced electricity bills and a minimal carbon footprint. If you are interested in finding out more about the value that solar can add to your property, feel free to reach out to our solar experts here at Semper Solaris. We’ve helped thousands of customers save money by installing the right solar panel system for their properties. Our goal is to make the process as simple as possible, getting straight to the point so you can understand how much you’ll save and how much anticipated value you could add to your home. From assessing your roof to determining the number of panels your household would require, we help you think through every detail so you can make an informed decision and start saving today! Let Semper Solaris help you add value to your home. Get more information about going solar today!
Living in Corona, you know that there is plenty of sunshine to capitalize on. You may be wondering if it's worth it to invest in solar panels for your home. With numerous expenses and budgets to think through, it can feel like a tough decision to make. Semper Solaris is here to lay out all your options and help you understand what's to gain out of going solar! While the promises of savings and added property value sound nice, is there really evidence to back it up? We are here to provide the insight you are looking for! Top Reasons to Consider Solar Panels Experience Real Solar Savings Having solar panels in Corona can result in significant savings. You are looking at much more affordable electric bills, added property value, and long term savings. With electricity prices going up, the projected savings could spike even more for the homeowner with a solid solar panel system set up already! Paired with the more affordable cost of solar panels and extensive local rebates, incentives, and tax credits available, solar offers real savings to homeowners in Corona. Enjoy More Energy Independence Electricity rates are projected to fluctuate more and more over the next few years. That’s why going solar has become such an attractive option to homeowners throughout California. Why stay dependent on the grid when you can ensure your rates stay relatively the same with solar panels? Specially with time-of-use rates and other things that could cause your electricity bills to fluctuate, with solar panels you are looking at more stability and control -- especially with growing solar storage options become more available to homeowners. Add Value to Your Property Studies have found that having a solar energy system added to a home can add significant value. For example, homebuyers are reportedly more willing to pay a price tag of around $15,000 higher for homes with an average solar panel system installed. Other evidence from the study even shows that solar panel homes are selling faster than homes without these renewable energy systems. Who wouldn’t love to have their home sell quicker and for more money than other comparable homes on the market? When it comes to determining if solar panels will add real value to your property, the proof is definitely there! Numerous Financing Options to Fit Your Budget Solar panels have never been more accessible to consumers, with numerous financing and leasing options available. While leasing may seem like a viable option for those who want to be more budget-friendly, the savings may not be as great as they would be if a system was financing for purchase. Either way, you can still save with solar, it just comes down to how much you want to save. If you choose to go with a solar lease or power purchase agreement, you won’t have to put any money down, however, you are more so just enjoying a more affordable electricity bill, so the savings are smaller. Once you’ve thought through your budget and what you want to spend on solar upfront, you can discuss the best solar financing options with our team at Semper Solaris. We help you understand how to maximize your savings from solar without busting your budget! Sunny Corona Offers Optimal Sunshine to Harvest Living in Corona, you know that the weather doesn’t get much better than this. There is plenty of sunshine, with average high temperatures hitting just below that perfect 80°F mark. Southern California is notorious for its beautiful sunny weather, with most areas averaging well over 200 sunny days year-round. That means your solar panels will get plenty of use during the average clear day in Corona, making your solar installation well worth it. Extensive Lifespan & Warranties to Guarantee Performance At the end of the day, anything home improvement should be something you can expect to last a long time. You wouldn’t spend all that time and money remodeling your kitchen if you thought you’d have to do it all again in just five years. Purchasing new windows or insulation is done with the assumption that you won’t be faced with the same upgrades again just a few years down the road. That is something that solar panels offer as well -- peace of mind about the long-term benefits of your investment. So how long can you expect your solar panels to last? The average warranty on solar panels can range from 20 to 25 years (some reaching up to 30 years), meaning you can trust that your panels are guaranteed to perform for a long time. These panels are designed to endure the elements for decades -- often performing efficiently with minimal degradation after 30 to 40 years. Solar Isn’t a Trend -- It's Here to Stay Just a few years ago it seemed crazy to think that solar power would gain any ground on fossil fuel sources. Now, solar panels are becoming more and more affordable and accessible to homeowners. It is pretty evident that solar isn’t just a quick trend or fad that will go away -- it's a renewable energy solution that is here to stay. If you want to enjoy all the benefits and flexibility of having a solar panel system installed on your roof, don’t wait another day. The windows are closing on some tax credits and other incentives that make going solar all the more affordable for Corona residents. If you are ready to talk to a solar contractor in Corona, Semper Solaris is here to help. Contact us today to find out if going solar is right for you!
When you live in Southern California, there is certainly a lot of hype and buzz surrounding solar energy. But is there really that much benefit for homeowners who install solar panels in Laguna Beach? Are they really going to save on electricity and put money back in their pockets every month? The fact is that solar panels have proven to be much more than just a way to reduce electricity bills. They offer homeowners numerous benefits, especially those living in sunny Laguna Beach. Aside from the way more affordable electric bills, solar panels can provide added home value, reduced carbon footprint, more freedom from the grid (and rising electricity expenses), less impact on pollution and public health, and more. Why Rising Electricity Costs in California Make Solar More Attractive You may be asking, “Do I really need to save on my electricity bills?” Even if you don’t think your bill is that high or you feel like the cost of installing solar panels isn’t worth the tradeoff, the price of electricity isn’t set in stone -- in fact, it's far from that. With the cost of electricity in Laguna Beach reaching nearly 16 cents per kWh in recent years, local residents already pay over 4% greater than average in California. While those numbers may seem high, they are anticipated to only continue to creep higher over the next few years. That means there will be no relief from the fluctuating and likely extremely expensive electricity costs for Southern California homeowners tied to the grid. That’s why solar has become more attractive in recent years. Laguna Beach residents can gain more grid independence in the face of uncertain electricity costs with affordable solar installation. Breaking Down the Savings from Solar You can better determine some of the savings you’ll get from installing solar panels by looking at the following questions below. While every situation and specific home may vary, answering these questions will give you a better idea of what to expect in solar savings! Do You Live in an Area With Lots of Sunshine? This one should be pretty easy to answer. With the average temperatures in Laguna Beach ranging from mid-60’s in the “winter” months and perfect 80's in the summer, there is plenty of sunshine and clear skies to enjoy throughout the year. Even with some cooler, cloudy or rainy days during the winter, the area still gets an extensive amount of sunny weather, making it an ideal place for homeowners to utilize solar panels. It can also be important to think through how much general sun exposure your roof gets. Are there a lot of trees around your roof? Does your home face the sun or do you get a lot of shade throughout the day? What type of roof do you have and how does it get exposed to the sun? All of these details can impact whether or not you’ll get the right amount of sun to make solar panels profitable. How Much Electricity Does Your Household Use? When it comes to determining if solar panels will be worth the investment, you need to think through the size of your house, how many people live with you, how often people are home using electricity during the day and during peak hours, and so on. While it may be tough to calculate all of those things, you can obviously get a clear idea of how much electricity you are using by simply looking at your utility bills. For example, the average household in San Diego used around 5,599 kWh of energy over the course of the year in 2017. Residents in Fresno reached up to 8,073 kWh while San Francisco was the lowest at 3,790 kWh. Even with conscientious homeowners in Southern California striving to reduce energy usage (below the national average per capita), the cost can be the same -- if not more -- due to higher electricity costs. This is why sustainable energy resources like solar panels continue to gain popularity in California and beyond. What Solar Financing Options Are Available? As the market continues to develop and grow, more and more solar financing options have become available to homeowners. If you are considering solar, you need to think through whether you want to purchase your solar energy system with cash outright, opt for a 0-down payment plan, or even opt for a solar lease or loan through a solar power purchase agreement. Depending on which financing option you go with, your savings with solar will vary. At the end of the day, buying the system outright means you’ll enjoy the most savings as you’ll get more affordable energy bills right away that start paying back the cost of the system itself. No matter which option you choose though, you’ll still be saving potentially thousands of dollars over the years. With so many options out there, it can seem overwhelming to determine what makes the most sense for your budget. That’s where our solar contractors step in. We discuss your budget, household electricity needs, and desired system size to better understand what you are looking for and what the right financing option is for your situation. Our solar experts take the time to walk through each option with you to ensure you feel confident about your decision. How You Can Enjoy Affordable, Sustainable Electricity From household electricity usage to roof sun exposure to financing decisions, there are numerous factors that can impact whether or not solar panel savings will be worthwhile for you. Another way to enjoy a more affordable solar panel system is capitalizing on the federal, state, and local rebates, incentives, and tax credits that may be available. While companies Laguna Beach or California, in general, may offer some great incentives, by far the most helpful is the federal solar investment tax credit, which allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the total system cost from their taxes. There is a limited window on this credit, however, so make sure to keep this in consideration if you want to optimize your savings on solar panel installation. Interested in talking to Semper Solaris about saving on your electricity bills? Learn more about Solar in Laguna Beach!
Fossil fuels have long been discovered to be not only harmful for the environment and public health, but also finite. This makes them much less sustainable, more unpredictable, and more expensive than renewable energy sources like wind, water, and solar. For the average homeowner, the most accessible way to be a part of the sustainable energy movement is the investment in a solar energy system. How Solar Panels Can Be Utilized in Your Community Having solar panels in Encinitas can be very beneficial for homeowners, especially considering the extensive amount of the sun the area receives coupled with high electricity costs (37.63% higher than the national average). If you are wondering how you can make solar panels work for your home. What Makes Going Solar So Appealing? As a renewable energy source, there are many benefits that fossil fuels simply can’t offer. While there are also some disadvantages to consider, we believe the long-term benefits of renewable energy far outweigh more traditional energy sources. At the end of the day, we need to move towards what is more sustainable for the future of our planets -- and, of course, our wallets! Protects the Environment & Public Health With the dominant use of fossil fuels over the years, there is no doubt that water and air pollution and other damages have plagued the globe. While renewable energy sources do generate some greenhouse gases and pollutants in the process of converting the energy, it is very miniscule in comparison to the damage fossil fuels can do. Solar and other renewable sources can greatly reduce our carbon footprint as well as health issues such as respiratory and cardiac problems that stem from fossil fuel pollutants. More Savings Over Time Renewable energy sources offer great savings, providing more accessible resources that can significantly reduce expenses with long term use. Depending on the size of the system you invest in, the amount of electricity you use, and the amount of sunshine your area gets, you could be looking at even more savings. On top of the savings to your electricity bills, as a homeowner you get the benefit of added value to your property. Studies have shown that homes with solar panels not only sell for a higher price, but also sell quicker than comparable homes without solar panels. Renewable Energy Requires Minimal Maintenance Compared to generators designed to use fossil fuel sources, renewable energy systems will typically require much less maintenance. Why? Renewable energy systems are designed simply to thrive in the elements and experience much less wear and tear. Solar panels, for example, have fewer parts and are not dependent on a flammable or dangerous fuel source that could cause damage to the system trying to utilize it. Further, solar panels are designed to last decades. While warranties typically extend up to 25 to 30 years, some solar panels could perform efficiently for as long as 80+ years depending on the rate of degradation. Cuts Back on Foreign Energy Reliance Your solar panels allow you to produce energy directly in Encinitas, making it a local energy producer compared to many fossil fuel systems that rely on foreign energy resources. Other renewable energy resources also produce from their local area, cutting back dependence on imported energy sources. The less dependent the U.S. is on foreign energy providers, the more protected our economy remains, especially if we are producing the energy ourselves through sustainable methods. Things to Consider Before Embracing Sustainable Energy So what are some disadvantages homeowners interested in getting behind solar need to think through? There are more upfront costs associated with getting your system up and running compared to simply plugging into the grid. Also, if you don’t live in a very sunny area, there can be intermittency (and you also have to consider that your panels can’t obtain energy from the sun during the nighttime). While solar storage is becoming more available, not every homeowner wants to be completely independent from the grid -- you will, however, gain much more control of your electricity bills in the face of rising electricity costs and often get credits for any energy produced during the daytime that you didn’t use, which can be credited towards electricity you use from the grid after the sun goes down. So all that said, yes, there are some drawbacks that traditional energy sources don’t have, but solar technology only continues to improve and become more affordable, shrinking the drawbacks even more. Join the Renewable Energy Movement Today With numerous state incentives, rebates, and tax credits available to homeowners looking to invest in renewable energy, solar installation in Encinitas is easier and more affordable than ever before. Transitioning to solar energy can not only help you save money in the long run, but also helps protect our environment, public health, and add value to your home. All of these factors make switching to sustainable solar energy extremely beneficial. Whether you are looking to be completely independent from the grid and rising electricity costs or just want to help supplement your current electricity bills by using the maximum solar power when possible, our solar contractors are ready to find the right option for you. We have years of collective experience, believe in hiring vets to provide exceptional service and support, and offer a range of solar panels for our customers’ specific needs. We’ll walk you through the process to ensure you understand all the benefits of solar panels’ sustainable energy and help you determine if this is the right time for you to install a system on your home. Still have questions? Semper Solaris can provide the answers. Learn more about Solar in Encinitas!
There is nothing like a beautiful, sunny day in Santa Monica. While there may be a lot of them, we still never grow tired of the consistent sunshine! One of the main reasons? It means we can help our customers continue to harvest the power of the sun for their benefit! With how expensive the electricity bills can be in this community, there is no doubt going solar is a serious attraction. As the fastest-growing solar contractor in Santa Monica, Semper Solaris is ready to help you make your community greener and take maximum advantage of solar savings. While going solar may feel like a big, complicated decision, we like to take the confusion out of the equation. Our goal is to make the solar process and investment as simple as possible for our customers to understand and determine whether it's right for their circumstances. We’ll walk you through each and every step to ensure you are comfortable with it! Learn about our current offers or find out how you can go solar by calling our experts today! Perks of Installing Solar Panels Having solar panels installed on your home can be extremely beneficial. There are countless benefits you’ll reap from this investment -- that includes everything from creating a more eco-friendly home to extra cash back in your pocket every month. Take a look at the wide range of solar benefits below! Real Savings on Long Term Expenses Looking for a way to reduce your energy bills? Having solar panels installed will greatly cut down on your monthly electricity costs. Electric company rates are predicted to have a steady increase throughout the next years, and being dependent on volatile rates and unable to dimish your electric use can be extremely damaging to your personal finances. Renewable energy allows you to break that cycle — to take charge of your energy source, to monitor your energy production, to understand how much you’re using and producing and to adjust your habits accordingly. On top of that, you’re no longer paying for that electricity: what you produce is yours, and whatever is leftover, you sell back to the electric company. No Waiting Period for Savings If you are on the fence about the upfront investment, solar purchase power agreements and leasing options allow you to get more affordable green energy through solar panels right away. You can enjoy all the benefits of solar with a simple “pay-as-you-go” model to take the financial burden off your shoulders and enjoy more immediate savings. A third-party company will actually own the system, but you’ll be able to buy the more affordable solar energy, saving you money month to month. Reasonable Payback Timeline & Cost For those who do want to buy their own solar panel system, the option can be very affordable and reasonable. With all the incentives, rebates, and savings, the payback period is often much quicker than homeowners even realize. This means all their savings on electricity goes right back into their pockets! Boost to Home Value As a prospective homebuyer, seeing that a house has a solar panel system in place can be very appealing. They can step into a smart home that will offer lower electricity bills, ultimately making it a much more attractive purchase. In fact, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that homes with solar panels were able to sell not only 17% faster, but for 20% more than comparable homes without panels installed. Numerous Incentives Available The most attractive incentive is no doubt the Federal Solar Tax Credit, which allows you to deduct a percentage of the total cost of your solar panel system (including equipment and solar installation expenses). That automatically takes out a huge chunk of the solar panel system cost! This credit is set to expire soon, however, so make sure you take advantage of it while still available. California is also determined to expand its reputation as a “green” and energy-conscious state, offerings rebates and incentives alongside the Federal Solar Tax Credit and local rebates for Santa Monica residents. Proven Performance & Savings Though they are constantly exposed to the elements, solar panels are designed to be sturdy and long-lasting. Typical solar panel manufacturers stand by their products with extensive warranties, often around 20 to 25 years. These performance guarantees give homeowners peace of mind that their panels are designed to perform exceptionally well for decades to come. And that’s just guaranteed performance, as solar panels are able to last much longer! Protects Environment & Keeps Local Community Green Santa Monica is a beautiful area to live in. Protecting that natural beauty is important, and going solar is one of the ways you can help promote a more sustainable future. It may seem small, but every house and every neighborhood can make a big difference for Southern California in the long run. Renewable energy options like solar panels cut back on air and water pollution that traditional fossil fuels emit. Not only is renewable energy good for the environment, but it's also great for public health, reducing air pollution and protecting precious water supplies. Provides More Energy Independence Electricity costs are currently volatile, with some uncertainty about future expenses to homeowners. That means going solar is more valuable than ever before. Having solar panels allows you to take control back over your electricity costs from utility companies. Even with net metering and time-of-use rates, having solar energy gives you much more peace of mind with your primary electricity use coming from your solar panels or solar credit from your panels. With the always-improving solar battery storage technology, you can further increase your energy independence and decrease reliance on the grid! Why Wait When You Can Start Saving Right Away? Helping the local Santa Monica community doesn’t have to be time-consuming or costly. Going solar can be a great way to help support the environment and your wallet at the same time! The incentives and tax credits still available for homeowners in California make it an ideal time to invest in solar panels. If you are interested in learning more about how installing solar panels in Santa Monica can help you save, add value to your home, and benefit your community, reach out to our team. We can walk you through each and every step of the process and help you select the right panels and system size for your home needs and budget. Semper Solaris is always just a quick call away. Get expert solar guidance today!
There are numerous variables that play into what makes a good solar design. The way a panel is not only installed but designed can greatly impact the productivity of the solar array and the efficiency of the entire solar panel system. That is why it is important to have an experienced solar designer working with you throughout the installation process. The challenge is that homeowners can sometimes have strong preferences about how they want their solar panel system to look with their home design. While they may prefer the panels to be placed a certain way on their roof or layed out according to their vision, a designer can help them not only get the best possible appearance, but also production. Factors Designers Consider So much goes into the actual design of a PV system layout. Designers think through every and factor that can impact a home’s solar energy system. Though your neighbors may look out the window and think the installation process is just a simple step of placing the panels on the roof, the where and how are complicated steps you’ll want to consider with your designer. The main things a solar system designer will calculate and think through: The actual energy usage and demands of the household (watt-hour use per month or year)Estimation of system size and the number of solar panels needed for energy demandsAssess your available roof space and design to determine the best location and layout of panels Factor in any potential challenges such as shading from trees, chimneys, or other structuresWork within your budget and preferences to find the right arrays based on efficiency and output needs An experienced solar designer will take into consideration everything from your past utility bills to the direction of the sun to the type of inverter and arrays you need to maximize your solar investment. Having a designer to the heavy lifting for you means you don’t have to worry about missing any details that could impact solar efficiency for your entire system. With an investment this big, it is crucial that you have your system setup to be as productive as possible to put more savings in your pocket and value back into your home. Get an Experienced Designer on the Job You don’t want just any solar team to install your panels and system -- you want a qualified Inland Empire solar company that uses great products and knows how to come up with a strong solar design. At Semper Solaris, our designers have upwards of 10 years of collective experience and have tackled around 10,000 jobs and counting. We have the knowledge of what makes a truly good and efficient solar system. Our designers ensure our customers have systems setup to produce the best results and benefits their home. By listening to our designers, you can be confident that your new solar panel installation will not only produce but be as cost-effective as possible!
Time for a roof replacement? If your roof has seen better days and you’re tired of placing buckets under leaky spots, getting a new roof can be an exciting process. It’s also a process that can involve numerous steps and obstacles, which is why you want to make sure your project is handled by the best roofing contractor in the Bay Area. Semper Solaris is a qualified and dedicated contractor that handles all types of Roof Installations and replacements, from San Francisco and San Jose to Sacramento City. Our team handles everything from the tear-off to the clean-up, and the thousand steps in between to ensure your repairs or roof replacement are done correctly. After all, your roof is the shield of your home, making it a very important project to be tackled. Steps in the Roofing Installation / Repair Process While not every roofing project will look the same, there are some common steps you can expect to take along the way. Finding a Qualified Contractor Before any work can be done, you need to find the right roofing company to actually handle the job. Every homeowner wants the best for their home, which is why they should do their due diligence and research before settling on a roofing contractor, comparing company values, customer reviews, past project completions, and experience and credentials. You also want to confirm the contractor you are interested in is licensed and insured before starting any work. Getting an Estimate Depending on whether you just need some roofing repairs or a completely new installation, the price could vary. The size of your roof, style, and the extent of your roof’s damage could all impact the final estimate. Another factor that will play a part in the cost of your roof project is the materials involved. Asphalt roofing, on average, tends to be more affordable, though it may need more regular repairs or replacement of shingles. In comparison, a slate or wood shake roof will likely cost more to repair but provides more lasting durability over the course of time. If you are completely replacing your roof, you’ll want to keep these factors in mind, as well as any upgrades you’d like to add to your home down the road. Securing a Permit Now that there is a contractor in place with an estimate you approve of, the final step before any real work can begin is securing the building permit. Speak with your contractor about this responsibility, as some contractors will handle the process for you while others may leave it up to the homeowner to tackle this step. A permit is crucial in order to pass the final code inspection for your roof once the work is fully done. Preparing for the Unexpected As with any construction project, it is important to prepare for the unexpected. For example, in a Roof Installation project there may be significant more damage uncovered throughout the process or a slow down due to weather. Whatever the case, it is important to plan ahead of these types of problems and ensure you have a contingency plan, such as a small budget for additional expenses or costs. While not every project is guaranteed to run into problems, it is better to safely plan ahead! Skill Work Completed on Roof For the homeowner, this is the easy part. Your contractor is in full swing, getting all the skill roofing work done while you sit back and wait for the final results. On average, a roof replacement can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. A project can range based on the size of the home, types of materials being used, craftsmanship involved, and unexpected issues and weather. The good news? The contractor you hire should have a team of top-notch roofing experts who’ve handled countless projects before. Debris Clean Up The roof may be down and looking pristine, but the work isn’t quite finished until the final clean up has been tackled. From shingle pieces to stray nails to underlayment, any good contractor will make sure the entire property is looking spick and span and not a single piece of material is left behind. Once this process is done, you can finally sit back and enjoy your new roof. More Questions? Call Our Roofing Experts Today! Getting the ball rolling on a major roof installation project can sometimes be intimidating. That’s why Semper Solaris is here to answer any questions you may have! Whether you want to make sure you have the right material selected or are meeting the specifications to add solar panels down the road, our Bay Area roof installers have the insight you need. Get connected with our roofing team today.
So you’ve already figured out the solar panel advantages of more affordable and renewable energy, but how do you put that cleaner energy to good use? Some people have found extremely creative and innovative solar uses. From charging cell phone batteries on the go to powering outdoor street lights to moving buses, trains, and airplanes along, solar power can go the distance. Residential solar panel systems also offer many advantages, from reducing monthly electricity costs to providing a cleaner way to power additional appliances such as swimming pools. Homeowners can greatly benefit from all the solar uses available to them. Top Innovative Home Uses of Solar Power Solar energy importance cannot be denied -- our environment is in danger of serious negative side effects if fossil fuel use isn’t curbed. Further, our health could greatly depend on cleaner, renewable energy sources like solar. That’s why it is important to put your solar panel produced power to thorough and good use! Some innovative solar energy uses include: Keeping your hot tub perfectly heated Powering your home fans Firing up your cooking appliances Maintaining your thermostat and AC Ensuring your fridge keeps it's cool Warming your household water Ventilating your home with a self contained roof vent fanCharging up all your batteries Lighting your walkways, backyard, and patio While you could opt to have any of these self-contained solar appliances, you could also go fully solar and power your entire home with solar energy in place of traditional grid electricity. Using a converter, the energy will be turned into regular electricity, with any excess sent to your local grid. With this approach, you could even earn credits for any solar panel produced electricity you don’t use. This means all your appliances, from your home water heater to your stovetop could be run off of clean, renewable solar energy. Put Solar Energy to Work for You While having one or two appliances run by solar power can sound like a great cost-saving opportunity, why stop there? With growing solar technology and extended federal tax credits, it has never been more affordable to switch to solar power. We can help you assess your electricity usage and solar panel needs to determine how going solar could save you money. By switching your entire household to solar dependency, you help reduce your footprint and maximize your electricity savings. If you would like more solar energy information, feel free to reach out to our experts at Semper Solaris today.
While fossil fuels are the main source of electricity in the U.S., they are very costly -- both in the financial cost to harvest these fuel sources and the negative impact they are having on our environment. There is no denying that solar will be cheaper in the long run (technically the sun’s energy is free!) and helpful for the environment. While solar panel systems still cost money to develop in order to convert the sun’s energy into usable electricity, it is growing more and more affordable as technology develops. Further, fossil fuels are arguably becoming more and more scarce, as there are limited resources available on our earth. On the other hand, the sun’s power is extremely consistent and unending. By switching over more and more applications to solar energy, we can help reduce our dependence on harmful and waning fossil fuels and protect the long-term health of our environment. Types of Energy Sources Fossil fuels are made up of once living organisms that have taken centuries to break down and transform into their current state. They primarily include carbon and hydrogen bonds. The most common fossil fuels include: CoalNatural GasOil Renewable energy are sources of energy that come from naturally replenishing sources and cleaner processes than modern fossil fuels. The most common types of renewable energy include: Solar PowerWind PowerHydroelectric PowerGeothermal PowerBiomass Power Benefits of Renewable Energy When it comes to solar and other renewable energy sources, there are many benefits. In addition to improving the health of communities, renewable energy greatly impacts the health of the environment. By harnessing the power of the sun, solar provides a source of clean and renewable power, reducing the carbon footprint across California, the U.S., and the entire globe. Fossil fuel burning results in greenhouse gas emissions, pollution of our air, pollution of our water, wildlife and land damage, and other environmental problems. According to a study done by The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering & Medicine, renewable energy options produce much lower greenhouse gas emissions “per unit of electricity produced” compared to how much coal and natural gas plants will produce. However, some renewable energy options like biomass and geothermal can be just as harmful as fossil fuels, which is why more research must be done on these alternative options. Solar and wind power still lead the way in the most clean and growingly affordable renewable sources. In regards to solar, the U.S. Energy Information Administration found that by switching to solar power, an average-sized home in Connecticut (which uses about 8,756 kilowatt-hours of electricity a year) could greatly reduce emissions. Essentially, it was the equivalent to planting 155 new trees -- every year. That is just one small example of what switching to solar and other alternative options could do for our environment. The Bay Area is leading the way in ushering in renewable energy. Interested in learning more about your solar options? Contact Semper Solaris’ today.
Going solar can be a great way to save on electricity bills and add value to your home -- especially when the solar investment tax credit (ITC) offers such an appealing discount. Those considering taking advantage of the massive 30% deduction on the cost of a solar panel system should act fast, however, as the credit won’t last forever. In fact, the first scale back on the credit is slated to happen as soon as 2020. That means 2019 is the last year to take advantage of the full federal tax credit along with any California solar tax credits. Timeline for the Investment Tax Credit While some people may not like that there will be major cuts into the federal investment tax credit for solar panel systems, it is important to remember the original establishment of the credit. When the Energy Policy Act that included the ITC was enacted in 2005, it was only slated to last for two years. Numerous extensions resulted in the credit remaining effective through 2016. Even though those extensions were set to expire, many solar and energy experts pushed for an additional extension of five years to allow for the solar industry to grow even more. In 2015, Congress passed a bill that extended the credit all the way through 2021, with some adjustments year to year. Here is the timeline for extended federal tax credit: 2007 - 2016 The first extension on the ITC pushed it through 2016, maintaining the original 30% tax deduction for homeowners as soon as their system was operational. 2016 - 2019 Additional extension pushed through, preserving the 30% deduction based on the entire cost of the solar panel system, allowing for optimal discounts for homeowners. 2020 Any new solar panel system installed after 12/31/2019 will only be eligible for a tax deduction of 26% of the installation expenses. 2021 After 12/31/2020, homeowners and commercial property owners will only be able to deduct 22% of the solar system costs from taxes. 2022 - Onward The new tax credit rate for commercial solar systems will be 10%, while homeowners will no longer be offered any federal tax credit for new systems installed. Keep in mind, newer legislation enables solar energy system owners to claim the tax credit even if the system isn’t fully operational -- so long as construction is completed. The only requirement is that the system be up and running by 2023. Will I Be Eligible for the Tax Credit? Any homeowner who has installed and owns their solar panel system will remain eligible for the full 30% tax credit through 2019 and any subsequent credits the years following.Just make sure to file IRS Form 5695. What if you are not going to have enough tax liability to even claim the full credit? The credit can be split between years, rolling into the next years for as long as the credit is still in effect. Ready to take advantage of the federal solar investment tax credit before it gets cut back? Semper Solaris can help you get the ball rolling. Reach out today.
Whether you are considering going solar but aren’t sure if your roof could handle the panels or you are just curious about the lifespan of your roof, taking the time to assess your home exterior is important. Not everyone is a roof expert, however, there are some tell tale signs that can give you insight into your roof’s health. We’ve outlined what you should keep an eye out for below. When Is it Time for a New Roof? As a homeowner, there are countless features of your home that you have to maintain, from the plumbing to the landscaping. Your roof condition is one of the most important aspects you can maintain, serving as the protection for your home interior from the outside elements. Here are some of the most common factors that indicate it's time to think about roof for your home: Roof Age Exceeding 20 Years Bald Spots Curling & Buckling Missing Shingles or Materials Roof Valleys Chimney Flashing Granules in the Gutters Leaks in Interior Storm Damage Mold or Algae Cracked Shingles Even if your roof hasn’t experienced major leaks or other problems, it still may be at the end of it's lifespan. Constant preventative maintenance to keep your roof healthy could cost you just as much as a roof replacement down the road, if not more in the long run due to unexpected repairs. The sooner you check off the new roof on your list of home improvements, the sooner you can enjoy peace of mind again. Take the Next Step for Your Roof & Find the Right Contractor You deserve a roof that provides your house with proper protection, insulation, and increased home value. Finding the right contractor is a key step in the process, as they’ll walk you through each step with complete security. The right contractor will also provide you with clear expectations, including an estimated timeline so that you can plan your schedule accordingly. Think your roof is ready for a serious facelift? It’s time to consider your options. If you are looking for expert roof information, Semper Solaris is always just a phone call away. We provide top quality roof replacements that allow homes to adapt to the latest residential solar panel systems. Backed by our military-mindset, we make sure every job gets done with exceptional craftsmanship, work ethic, and integrity. Our Inland Empire roofers can review all your roofing choices, ensuring you understand the best materials needed to upgrade your home with.
While current solar technology is still fairly new, the power of the sun is no modern revelation. The sun is the most powerful and consistent source of energy available to humans. The first solar device to produce a notable amount of electricity was created in 1954 at Bell Labs. Just several years later, the technology was being used in a few select projects, but would soon explode in interested by the 1970s due to current energy concerns. Unfortunately, the high price of PV production prevented more large-scale use of solar technology. Thanks to significant research and developments, modern solar technology is becoming more and more affordable for average homeowners and businesses across the globe. What You Need to Know About Photovoltaic Technology So what does modern solar technology look like today? Photovoltaic, or PV, devices harness sunlight and turn it into electricity. The key? The materials used to make solar arrays or panels are natural semiconductors. When the electrons in them are struck by photons (energy of the sun), they are freed up from their atomic bonds, allowing them to travel through an electrical circuit to provide useable electricity. This can then be used to power electronic devices or sent to a local electricity grid. Essentially, the uses of solar energy can reach beyond just a single home and stretch out to an entire community, even if some of the homes in that area don’t have solar panels. From homes to commercial businesses, solar panels can power both personal devices and large-scale facilities. Common Types of PVs Crystalline silicon (c-Si) - Accounting for about 90% of the globe’s PVs, c-Si is extremely popular due to it's durability and efficiency. Other variations include monocrystalline, polycrystalline and string ribbon PVs. Thin-film PV - Though less efficient than traditional c-Si arrays, these panels are more affordable to produce, thus creating a fast-growing market for cheaper priced solar panel systems. Concentrating PV - These panels are typically seen in vast desert areas, utilizing lenses and mirrors to reflect the power of the sun in a more concentrated manner onto highly efficient cells.Multi-junction / tandem cells - These specialized solar cells are typically reserved for specific projects that require lightweight material and extremely efficient production, making them a prime choice for satellites and military uses. Where PV Technology Is Going While having a solar panel system installed on a home seemed like a great luxury a decade ago, the dropping cost of PV has made solar more and more accessible to homeowners across the U.S. The industry has seen a great demand for more sustainable and renewable energy options, driving up manufacturing and pushing for improved technology and more efficient materials. Though the U.S. is the fourth largest market for PV installations, it is still behind other smaller countries that aren’t as dependent on fossil fuels. The more the U.S. and other major countries adopt this technology, the more it is likely to develop. Questions? Reach out to our Orange County solar company for helpful answers.
As solar technology continues to improve and sustainable energy options become more and more accessible, homeowners across California and the U.S. are beginning to line up to switch to solar. The great news about going solar in San Diego? Homeowners don’t also have to have the savings to cover all the upfront expenses of installing a solar panel system. That means all the benefits of switching to solar are available without the initial heavy financial burden. For homeowners that don’t want to purchase their solar panels and system from day one, there are two main alternatives: solar leases and solar PPA agreements. Under a solar PPA, a homeowner purchases the electricity produced by the solar panels installed on their home (still owned by the solar company) at an agreed upon rate. They basically only get the immediate benefits of more affordable and sustainable energy. While PPA agreements can be attractive to some, others may prefer more flexibility that general leases offer. Under a solar lease, the homeowner still doesn’t own the solar panels or other equipment installed on their home, however, they still have the same net metering process as solar owners would. Generally speaking, the monthly savings homeowners get on their electricity bill will exceed the monthly lease payment, resulting in instant savings. Over the lifetime of a system, a homeowner can see as much as 70% savings on their electricity expenses. What’s the Best Leasing Option for Your Home? When it comes to going solar, you have to make sure you settle on the right lease agreement. So what are your options? Here are some of the most common solar lease agreements: Zero-down: Under this agreement, there is no payment required on the date of signing the lease agreement. Only when the solar panels begin to produce electricity will you begin to pay a monthly fee to the solar panel owners. The benefit is obviously that there is no upfront investment needed and can allow you to get electricity rates that are 20 to 30% lower than average. Each year may include a rate increase.Prepaid: The entire lease is paid upfront, which means you won’t have to make any monthly payments for the duration of the agreement. Essentially, by paying 100% upfront, you get more flexibility with your lease terms because the solar panel owner doesn’t have to assume any risk. You may also get some piece of any Solar Renewable Energy Credits and boost the value of your home by covering the entire lease upfront. By opting for a lease, the total price of the system is typically between 30% and 50% cheaper than it would have been without a third-party owner.Custom down-payment: With this type of agreement, you can expect to pay some amount upon the initial signing, usually negotiated with the third-party owner. The down payment may range anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, allowing for lower monthly payments. Typically, a down payment will negate the annual rate increase a $0-down lease includes. Make the Right Solar Choice With so many options for going solar, it can be overwhelming to make decisions on everything from type of solar arrays to financial agreements. That’s why Semper Solaris is here to provide the guidance and insight you need on solar financing. Over the years, our San Diego solar company has installed thousands of residential solar projects. Time and time again, we’ve helped homeowners select the right solar agreement for their financial situation. When you work with our team, we’ll review your budget and preferences and help you select the best solar leasing option. Interested in learning more? Give Semper Solaris a call anytime to get connected with a solar expert!
California is one of the leaders in renewable energy resources. While the rest of the country is following suit, not every state or city is as passionate about solar and other renewable energy sources. This means that not every homeowner across the country would necessarily add property value by installing solar panels on their home. The good news? The Bay Area is one of the most popular areas for solar panels. Whether you live in Sacramento City or San Francisco, having solar panels could be a great investment if you are looking to add value to your home. How Going Solar Can Benefit Your Property Value Sure, you’ve heard that adding solar panels can be a great boost for a home, but does it really add any property value? According to a study done by Berkeley Lab, potential homeowners have been showing a willingness to pay a higher price tag (floating around $15,000 or more depending on the size of the system) for a house with an adequate solar panel system. While buying a solar system is a big investment, the savings on utilities, reduced carbon footprint, and added monetary value to a home make it an attractive upgrade. Just like a remodeling kitchen or backyard addition, solar panels are seen by potential home buyers as a distinguishing factor on the market. In fact, in a past study, homes in California that had energy efficient features, such as solar arrays, were actually found to sell faster than those that were not as efficient. Some factors can impact the solar value added to your Bay Area home: The production and quality of your PV panels (i.e. how much sun they get and brand name) The size of your solar installation compared to the size of your home The overall energy efficiency of your home Whether you own the system outright or are leasing it The starting value of your home and current market price It is important to note that just leasing a solar panel system will likely not add value to your home at all. On top of that, it can be difficult to transfer the lease to a potential buyer, so make sure to consider your financial situation and options when it comes to your solar investment. Deciding if Solar Panels Are Right for Your Home If you are simply looking for a way to add value to your property for a quick sell, solar panels won’t necessarily be the simplest or even most beneficial option. However, if you are planning to invest in solar panels so that you can reap the benefits of saving on your utility expenses and have your panels paid off or significantly covered, going solar could bring a nice boost to your property value. Down the road, if you decided to sell your home, you could expect to benefit from having solar panels already installed. Still have questions about the value solar can bring to your home? Semper Solaris is here to provide more insight. Give our experts a call today to learn more.
So you’ve thought about some of the benefits of going solar and want to find out what to expect in the process. Whether you are in Antelope Valley or Downtown Los Angeles, having the right solar company tackle your installation is key. Semper Solaris is here to provide a breakdown of the solar installation steps you can expect. What Is Involved in the Solar Process? We know that it can be slightly overwhelming trying to navigate all the solar steps on your own. That’s why we’ve created a quick guide on what to expect below. Get quotes from local companies - Find the right fit isn’t always easy, but it is likely the most important step in the whole process. You want a company that is reliable, fair, honest, and highly skilled at what they do. Read reviews, ask around, read about their values, and request a quote before making any decisions. The right company will help you calculate your solar needs and quote you on a system size according to those demands. Decide on an installer and payment plan - Once you’ve decided who you are going with, you can work with them to figure out which financial path is best for you. Your options range from a lease agreement to a PPA to financing to loaning to putting cash down for a outright ownership of the system. Discuss these options with your installer to ensure you choose the best one for your financial situation. Solar inspection - The next step is getting your selected solar installer to perform an inspection, which happens before any solar work can be done to your home. You’ll need to have your home evaluated for your desired solar panel system. These means that your electric panel and breakers will be inspected to ensure that they can handle the installation planned -- or add on an upgrade if necessary. During the inspection, your solar company will also help you decide on where to have the panels installed on the roof and have it inspected for structural integrity to ensure it can handle all the necessary equipment. Solar permitting - While the actual installation of a solar system could be completed quicker, the entire process can take anywhere from a few days to 8 weeks or even longer in some cases due to the permitting and approvals that need to be received before any work and solar production can actually begin. The good news? Your solar contractor will work on getting most of the permits and paperwork you need taken care of on your behalf; this includes helping you sign up for tax credits, rebates, and local incentives. Having the equipment installed - Once the permits are cleared and the equipment arrives, the physical installation will begin. Your roof will be made secure with racking equipment for the panels and any other support or small repairs needed. During this process, your installer (or possibly the utility company) may need to have an upgraded power meter installed to allow for bi-directional electricity metering so that net metering is possible. Wiring will be installed and connected to the solar panels and inverter / power controllers. Final inspection before being powered on - Once all the equipment is installed and functioning properly, there is one final step: interconnection and approval from your utility company or city inspector. The inspector has to ensure that the installation was done correctly, safely, and completely up to code. After it's been signed off, the switch can officially be turned on and your solar panels can get to work producing electricity. Get Your Solar Journey Started Today Ready to get the ball rolling on your solar installation process? The Los Angeles solar installers at Semper Solaris are always ready to help. We’ve worked with countless customers throughout the L.A. area, installing solar panels on houses big and small alike. With a team of highly skilled professionals -- many of which are veterans thanks to our military roots -- we are more than equipped to tackle your solar project for you. Working with us means quality service, caring support, and unmatched work ethic and integrity. Learn more about the Semper Solaris solar panel installation process by contacting us today!
