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Have You Thought About Going Solar?

Looking at your carbon footprint for Earth Day

By Faith Mellinger April 17, 2014
As we head into warmer temperatures one thing I dread is our electricity bills and with the kids at home soon they may be racking up even more. I've gotten a few flyers and emails about going solar, but I know nothing about it.

As a kid we had solar panels to heat our swimming pool - this was unusual for our little suburban area in the 80s and I'm pretty sure it was a big expense for my parents. However now with all the incentives - including a 30% federal tax credit- and the benefits of getting independence from the grid, I've seen a lot more interest. So what better time than Earth Day to check out the options for families and learn a little about it myself. 

With a little research here is what I've discovered:
  1. Without a visit to your house and seeing a summary of your last 12 months of electricity bills, no one can quote you an accurate price. The system sizes are custom designed so they can't advise you how many panels you may need or any other details until they see your roof, its square footage, etc.
  2. There are currently a lot of incentives to go Solar - however Rebates are running out so the people who jump on this bandwagon first will be the one's getting the most. Currently there is a 30% Federal tax credit that looks like it will be around for a while.
  3. Expensive equipment and installation used to be a key factor in keeping families from going Solar. Now, many Solar companies offer financing options ($0 down lease and loans) so you no longer have to pay the upfront costs and you can pay for the system with the money you save on electricity bills. 
  4. In almost all areas, if you produce more power than you use you will be credited for the extra production. You will be your own mini Electricity factory - who knew you could make money off the sun!
  5. Once you're all set up with your city and Utility company to have Solar installed on your Home (a process which can take about 3 weeks), installation typically takes only 1-2 days and your system and savings will be up and running. Also, most Solar panels have a warranty of 25 years (about the same time my house will be paid for). 
If you're interested in knowing more we found a local consultant for Infinity Solar that will come out and offer a free analysis.He is available Monday-Saturday at 626.665.3031 or email him at: Scheng@InfinitySolarllc.com. The company has offered us a little incentive for referring them so be sure to mention you saw them on Macaroni Kid Pasadena.

Disclaimer: We conducted research on our own for this article however the company listed in this article has offered us a referral fee if you decide to use them for solar services.