FAQ

What is the lifespan of solar panels?

According to Pacific Gas and Electric, one of California’s largest utilities, the optimal life span for solar panels is 25 years. Even some of the very first solar panels made back in the 1970s still produce 80% of their power after 40 years. On average, solar panels lose about half a percent a year in efficiency.

What type of warranty will my equipment have?

Manufacturers will typically offer a 20- to 25-year warranty for solar modules, but they can last up to 30+ years. Inverters have an average life span of 10 to 12 years. The company that installs your system should also have a warranty for their work and the life span of the system (typically 2 to 10 years). This also ensures that there are no holes, leaks, etc. in your roof that are preventing your system from operating at peak efficiency.

Solar Gain provides a 10 year workmanship warranty for the life of your system. All of our systems come with hassle-free internet monitoring that is checked regularly by one of our certified technicians.

(Note that a warranty does not cover theft, fire, or other damages/natural disasters. It is recommended that you add your system to your homeowner insurance policy.)

How do I correctly size my photovoltaic (PV) system?

We start by reviewing your last 12 months of utility bills to calculate how much electricity your home uses. We factor in seasonal rate changes, planned additions to your home, new appliances or HVAC systems, and the number of occupants. One of our team members then analyzes your available roof space and electrical panel to design a system that fits your home and your energy goals.

Contact Solar Gain for a free evaluation.

How do utility rates affect my solar savings?

Most utilities use tiered rate structures where higher consumption is charged at higher rates. The more you currently pay for electricity, the stronger your return on investment with solar. Many utilities in Arizona and California also offer net metering – when your system produces more than you use, you receive a credit toward your next bill. The specific credit rate depends on your utility and rate structure.

Your Solar Gain advisor will walk you through how your utility’s rates apply to your system.

What certifications should my solar installer have?

Any reputable installer should hold certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). The NABCEP PV Installation Professional credential demonstrates that an installer follows national standards and has the skills to do the job right. Solar Gain’s team meets these standards.

Do I need a new roof, or can it support the weight? And how do I prevent leaks?

A typical roof can handle the weight of the solar modules if they are installed properly on the structural members of the roof. Adding solar will not harm your roof in any way when it’s properly installed. You will actually benefit in extended roof life due to the fact that your roof will be covered from direct exposure to the elements. The solar panels absorb the sun’s energy and provide shade to that portion of the building, thus lowering cooling costs.   

Always make sure that your installer explains how they plan to seal the penetrations they make in your roof and what type of roof attachment methods they are using to accomplish this. A properly installed and maintained system can last for 20 years or more with no roof leaks as long as this is done correctly.

How long will the installation take?

The majority of the time spent on your installation is on the preparation of utility applications and approval, engineering, and permitting. This stage of the process usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. Once the installation company has an approved permit and materials are delivered, things move much faster.

The type of roof will impact the time spent on the installation. Spanish tile roofs are much more fragile and require time to ensure proper installation and integrity of the roof and tiles. Asphalt shingle or white coat roofs are much less fragile and can be installed more quickly without worrying about breaking tiles.

On average a solar installation should take 3 to 5 days. More time may be needed if your system requires trenching to the service area, service panel upgrades or if any other unforeseen issues arise. Ground mounts and solar canopies are much more involved and can take 1 to 2 weeks to complete.

These timelines do not include the system getting serviced by the power company and the meter being stabbed, which can take longer depending on availability and whether it passes inspection. This can take 1 to 2 weeks. There are several factors that will determine the time frame before the system is active.  

Does my roof have to face south?

Ideally, solar systems should be installed on the south-facing side of your roof (if located north of the equator). If this is not possible, you can still get plenty of solar production facing east and west, just as long as the panels are not facing north. Your Solar Gain sales team will explain the differences in energy production and ROI from the different facing roof surfaces.

Residential Solar FAQ: Are there any local state or federal tax incentives?

This is one of the most important updates for 2026. The federal 30% residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) expired for homeowner-purchased systems on December 31, 2025, following passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill signed July 4, 2025.

• If you installed your system and incurred all qualifying expenses before December 31, 2025, you may still claim the 30% credit on your 2025 tax return. Consult a qualified tax professional.
• Leases and PPAs (where a third party owns the system) remain eligible for incentives under separate provisions through 2027.
• State and local incentives  including net metering credits and utility rebates may still apply and vary by location.Solar Gain will identify all available programs during your free evaluation.

How long does a system take to pay for itself?

Studies show that on average, solar panels return 2 to 4 times their cost in saved electricity bills and typically pay for themselves completely within 7 to 12 years. That is as much as 10% to 14% ROI. If you live in a state with good incentives, the payback period can be as short as 2 to 4 years.

What is the cost of a solar power system?

The cost of your solar power system will depend entirely on the amount of electricity you currently use and how much solar electricity your new system will need to generate. The size of your facility or home plays into this. If you’d like to learn more about what your average cost may be, contact us for a free evaluation.

Should I buy or lease my system?

Buying (cash or loan) means you own the system outright, which can increase your home’s resale value and maximize long-term electricity savings. Note that the federal residential tax credit for purchased systems expired after 2025.

Leasing / PPA means a third-party company owns the system and sells you the power it generates at a set rate. You have no upfront cost, no maintenance responsibility, and may benefit from the leasing company’s tax advantages — which remain available through 2027 under current law. The trade-off is that a leased system may not increase your home’s value and can complicate a future sale if the buyer doesn’t want to assume the lease.

Ask Solar Gain about our $0 down financing options and we’ll help you determine which structure makes the most sense for your home.

If I go solar, is it my only source of energy?

Most residential systems are grid-tied, meaning you draw from the utility grid whenever your panels aren’t producing enough at night, on cloudy days, or during high-demand periods. The grid also allows you to bank excess solar production through net metering credits.

One important note: standard grid-tied inverters shut down automatically during a utility outage to protect utility workers. If backup power during outages is important to you, a battery storage system is required. See the EV Charging, Batteries & Storage section for more.

Do you still have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out! Solar Gain would be happy to answer all of your questions or perform a free evaluation of your home or facility.