Solar can be a good investment, but the system has to fit the roof, the household's energy use, and the local utility rules. This guide covers the questions to settle before signing a contract.
Start with the roof
The roof should be in good condition and have enough remaining life to justify the panels. Replacing a roof after solar is installed means removing and reinstalling the array.
Check the orientation, pitch, and structural condition. A south-facing roof is often ideal, but east and west arrays can still produce useful energy.
Shade and production
Shade from trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings can reduce production. A shading analysis should be based on the actual site, not just a satellite image.
Ask for a production estimate and the assumptions behind it. Compare estimates across installers using the same inputs.
Energy use and rate structure
Look at a full year of electric bills. The system size should match usage and the utility's net metering or billing rules. A system that is too large may export power for a lower credit.
Ask how the utility handles exports, time-of-use rates, and interconnection. These rules affect the financial case as much as the panels.
Battery storage
A battery can provide backup power and store excess production, but it adds cost and complexity. Decide whether resilience or bill savings is the priority.
Ask about inverter compatibility, backup circuits, and warranty. A battery is not a whole-home generator unless the system is designed for it.
Questions to ask an installer
- Who handles permits and utility interconnection?
- What equipment brands and warranties are included?
- What is the expected production, and how was it modeled?
- What happens if the system underperforms?
- Who services the system after installation?
Get the proposal and warranty in writing. Avoid high-pressure sales and unclear financing terms.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a new roof before solar?
If the roof is near the end of its life, replacing it first is usually better than removing panels later.
Can solar power my whole house during an outage?
Only with a battery and a properly designed backup system. A grid-tied solar system typically shuts off during an outage for safety.
How long do solar panels last?
Many panels have production warranties of 25 years or more. Inverters and batteries often have shorter warranties.
Need help now? Call (877) 471-2907 and describe the situation. The line is open 7am–10pm EST, seven days a week. For a gas leak, fire, or life-threatening emergency, call 911 first.
About this guide: This information is general and educational. It is not a substitute for an on-site assessment, a licensed professional's advice, or your local building code. Verify licensing and insurance directly with any provider you hire.