Here at West Coast Solar, one question we hear frequently is, “When is the best time to install solar panels?” While the simple answer is, “Anytime is a great time to install a solar panel system on your home or business!”, we can dig into this question a little bit deeper.

When Is the Best Time to Install a Solar Power System?

When it comes to installing panels on your home or business in Sacramento, we want you to feel completely confident in your decision, as this is a huge investment that can deliver a lifetime of benefits. Let’s explore this frequently asked question a little bit further in today’s blog post. As always, if you have any questions about #GoingSolar, or you want to meet with our team to get started, your Top Rated Local® solar power experts in Sacramento are just a call or a click away. Click the link to connect with our team today. In the meantime, let’s look at the best time for solar system installations in Northern California.

When Is the Best Season to Install Solar Panels?

Here in Sacramento, and throughout Northern California, we typically get plenty of sunshine and mild weather year-round. While installing a solar power system in the spring or summer is often a popular choice, the fall and winter months are also ideal. The days are longer in the spring and summer, which means we definitely enjoy more sunshine. More sunshine is essential once the panels and system have been installed, because more sunshine means more energy production for your home or business, right?

Fall and Winter Installations

While this is true, installing a system in the fall or winter is also a great choice because these are typically slower months for solar installers. This is simply because, during the holidays, people generally funnel all their time, money, and attention toward family, work, and social events, which, if we’re being honest, doesn’t leave a lot of wiggle room for home improvements.

The positive aspect of installing solar panels during fall or winter is that the design and installation turnaround is typically quicker than in the summer months when the majority of people are installing. What’s more, the temperatures are much cooler, which can actually help with the efficiency of your solar panels. Silicon photovoltaic(PV) panels operate at a higher rate until the temperatures reach about 77-degrees Fahrenheit, at which point energy output is reduced slightly due to what is called the “temperature coefficient” as a result of thermodynamics. This is common among all solar panels, but it’s also important to keep in mind that a slight reduction in energy production doesn’t mean you’re losing out with your investment. It just means that solar panels typically operate more efficiently in optimal conditions when temperatures are cool and mild, even if there isn’t as much sunlight during the cooler months.

What About Tax Credits?

As of right now, most homeowners and business owners in Northern California can enjoy a 30% tax deduction from the cost of their solar power system. This is thanks to the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which is a financial incentive for those who make the switch to green, renewable energy. Keep in mind that this tax incentive, which was enacted in 2005 by the EPA, expires at the end of the year, at which time reduced tax credits may still be available until 2021. Additionally, in order to claim this incentive on your taxes, the solar power system must be installed within the 2019 calendar year. If you want to start the process of going solar and enjoy that nice tax deduction, now is the time.

Do you want to learn more about the available energy efficiency rebate programs, incentives, and more in your area? Click this link to access renewable energy programs near you, and find out how you can save with solar.

Does the Condition of My Roof Matter for Solar Panels?

To put it simply — yes. Solar panels are designed and manufactured to last for approximately 20-45 years or longer. Roofs can range in longevity due to many different factors, and depending on the type of roof that is installed on your home or business. Home improvement guru Bob Vila notes that a standard asphalt shingle roof, which is extremely common here in Northern California, can last 20 to 25 years. But if your roof is damaged and has only about five or six years of life left before it needs to be repaired or replaced, it is not ideal to install a solar panel system on a bad roof.

In short, the newer the roof, the better. It will be more cost-effective for you to seek out a solar panel installation once your roof has been replaced. Keep in mind that before West Coast Solar installs a solar power system on your home or business, our experienced technicians perform a thorough roof inspection to make sure your roof is ready for panels. If your roof is in need of replacing or serious repairs, they will make the proper recommendations for how to move forward with your solar panel installation.

Connect with Your Trusted Solar Experts

Now is as good a time as any to transition your Northern California home or business to cleaner, greener energy. At West Coast Solar, we want to make going solar simple, cost-effective, and fun! When you are ready to explore your solar possibilities, connect with our team to learn about the solar system design and installation process, financing options for solar panels, and warranty information. We can customize your solar system to meet the needs of your home or business, regardless of the size, available space, and other factors. Click the link to request a quote, and we will help you get started on your path to clean energy usage.

Find out for yourself why we’re proudly recognized as Top Rated Local® solar panel designers and installers in Sacramento and throughout Northern California. Additionally, subscribe to our YouTube channel to access a plethora of insightful and entertaining content about solar panels, tips for being more energy-efficient, and more!