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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I am so ready to do solar. We have the right roof for it but I'm so worried about choosing the right installer and how maintenance will work that I've never been able to pull the plug. (haha punny)[/quote]

We went with Solar City (during the time of Obama 1st term). It was later acquired by Tesla.  They do a good job of installation and there is hardly any maintenance required. They recently came to upgrade some stuff and install squirrel guards etc.

Here is how we tackled it.  We first put in a new roof (we were due for it). We put in the strongest storm-proof and impact resistant shingles that we could.  We put in the solar panels on top of that new roof.

We leased for 20 years.  We are in year 14. A minimum production is guaranteed by the company. If that does not happen, they cover the shortfall. In case the panels are damaged from anything - the company has to replace (including damage to roof if any) it.

We have been very satisfied with our investment and recovered the cost in first 7 years. Till date, the roof and the panels are working well.  So we believe that it will continue to work even after the lease expires.

We also paid Pepco to do an energy audit for us. Based on their recommendation we upgraded our windows, front door and most importantly increased significantly the thickness of the insulation in our ceiling.  The extra insulation has been an absolute game changer because it has made our house absolutely comfortable in all seasons.  That has been a game changer.

Having the solar panels has also provided with extra insulation to the whole house and protection to the roof.

We also replaced our attic fans with solar attic fans on our roof and we also got  new solar attic fan installed over our attached garage.  It has made our garage cool in summer and warm in winters.

[/quote]

It’s nearly impossible to justify the costs of new windows, doors and insulation for an energy return.  Also, your solar already did the heavy lifting on electricity.

We did an audit (before we added solar) and it was estimated we might save $500 total per year for a close to $30k investment in windows and a new door.

That’s not how anyone would argue they are saving $$$ in this economy as the $30k just invested in a HYSA earns like $1200 per year.[/quote]

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