Frequently Asked Questions
2. How much will the government pay for?
3. Do the solar panels heat water?
4. Do I need batteries?
5. How long will my system last?
6. Can solar heat my pool?
7. Do you offer financing?
8. How long will it take to install my system?
9. How much maintenance is involved with my solar system?
10. What is an REC?
11. What is net metering?
12. Is Eco-merica hiring?
13. Do the panels electrocute Santa Clause and the Reindeer on Christmas?
If you have any other questions that haven't been answered here, please send them to info@eco-merica.com 1. How much does solar cost?
It depends on how much you want to spend. There are systems that range from $2,000 to $2,000,000. Realistically, residential solar systems cost at least $10,000 and go up from there. Most systems we install are in the $25,000 - $50,000 range. Fortunately, that cost is heavily subsidized by the government. See the DSIRE Website for more info. 2. How much will the government pay for?
The federal government will pay for 30% of your solar system in the form of a tax credit. The state rebates vary from state to state but range between 20-35% in our region. This means that the government will pay for 50-65% of the cost of your system. For example, if you have us install a $50,000 system, the government will pay $25,000 - $32,500 leaving you with a net cost of $17,500 - $25,000. For more detailed information on government incentives, click here 3. Do the solar panels heat water?
There are solar panels that can heat water, but they do not produce electricity. The panels we typically install are photovoltaic solar panels that convert light into electricity. 4. Do I need batteries?
Modern technology has brought us a solar solution that doesn't require batteries. Now, you produce electricity during the day and any excess power is 'stored' out on the grid. At night, the power you 'store' on the grid comes back so you are never without power. This means you don't need to worry about the price or maintenance issues that come with batteries, making your solar system virtually maintenance free. Don’t worry though, if your heart is set on having a battery backup system, we can do it no problem. 5. How long will my system last?
All of the panels we use are warranted for 25 years. Their expected lifespan is 30-50 years. Solar panels installed in the 1970's are still running strong, and they were built with less durable, inferior materials than today's panels. In reality no one knows how long today's solar panels will last, but it will certainly be a long time. 6. Can solar heat my pool?
If you have an electric pool heater, the electricity you produce will go toward heating your pool. We do offer solar pool heating systems that replace a standard pool heater and are generally a very good investment if you are looking for a pool heater. 7. Do you offer financing?
Yes! Call for more details. 8. How long will it take to install my system?
Small systems can be installed in 2-4 days. Large residential installations can be done in a week or two. Commercial systems usually take longer to install depending on their size. 9. How much maintenance is involved with my solar system?
Solar systems require little to no maintenance. There are no moving parts to maintain and no parts that need to be replaced. Solar panels have a lifespan of 30-50 years, so your system will have paid for itself many times over by the time it needs to be replaced. The only maintenance required is to clean them off every so often if they get dirty. 10. What is an REC?
REC stands for Renewable Energy Certificate. Every time your system produces 1000 kWh, you are awarded an REC. The REC is a legal document that certifies that you have used 1000 kWh of renewable electricity. These certificates are saleable on an open market. Utility companies and private companies purchase these certificates, creating another source of subsidy for solar power. 11. What is net metering?
Net metering is the process used in which the utility company "buys back" your solar power. A special meter is installed that measures both how much power you are using and producing. You get charged the difference between the two by your electric company. Net metering is a state law in PA, NJ, and DE, so the power companies are required to buy back your power. 12. Is Eco-merica hiring?
Eco-merica is always looking for motivated individuals that share our goals to become part of our team. If you are interested, please submit your resume to info@eco-merica.com to be considered. 13. Do the panels electrocute Santa Clause and the Reindeer on Christmas?
We recommend that you disconnect the DC disconnect on your system before going to bed on Christmas Eve, just in case the sleigh cuts through a wire.