CATERSOLAR INC

A: Silicon wafers laminated under non-reflective glass in solar panels collect photons from the sun and turn this into DC electrical power that then flows to an inverter(s) which converts and transforms it into the usable voltage and AC electrical power for your home or commercial building.

A: Net metering simply means any power that is being generated from solar in excess of what your current usage is will spin your meter backwards and accrue as credits to be used at other times when the sun does not shine such as night, or will roll forward as credits to future months. This is why we target annual average usage for solar system sizing.

A: We process all paperwork for you and deduct the rebate from the cost of the system up front to lower your out-of-pocket costs. This policy may vary on new construction projects.

A: No, solar is extremely reliable and requires little to no maintenance with no moving parts. It also works in conjunction with your utility power and will in no way negatively affect reliability or electrical down time. On the contrary there are too many positives to list here. The solar system acts in a transparent way to the end user.

A: No, batteries are an option only for solar systems that are designed for blackout protection so when power goes out the batteries will operate special isolated circuits in your home for a limited amount of time. By far, the most popular solar systems do not have batteries and are designed specifically to lower or eliminate electrical bills only.

A: First we analyze what size system you need based upon your electrical usage and your average electrical bill. Then, we determine which system is right for your needs based upon your budget and how much savings you would like to receive. We then schedule an appointment to come see your home or business and determine placement, structure qualifications, electrical service and any other criteria. Once you agree to a solar package and placement then we execute contracts with you to start the project and collect a $1,000.00 deposit check. Your solar is on the way. Simple!

Wash dust and dirt off your solar panels twice per year with water and a soft brush. An easy solution is to ask a local window washer to clean the panels. Also, have a professional check the electrical connections of the wiring and general condition of your equipment once per year.

Solar systems should be oriented south or west to maximize performance. To prevent shade on your solar system keep trees and bushes trimmed and wash panels as needed to keep off dust, dirt, and bird droppings. Allow space between your roof and panels to let air flow underneath and keep panels cool.

Typical prices are $20,000 to $60,000 based on a variety of factors including:

1. Your circumstances, such as wheter or not you finance your solar system
2. If rebates or other incentives are available in your area
3. The size of your system
4. The energy efficiency of your home
5. Whether it is a new or existing building
6. Whether the solar system is integrated into the roof or placed on top of the existing roof
7. The rating and performance of the solar panels
8. Other equipment such as inverters and optional monitoring packages
9. System configuration and
10. The solar provider you choose

Weather conditions vary from year to year so your system may produce more or less than is estimated. Weather values can affect the output of a system by plus or minus 12% per year (source: DOE).

The ease of installation makes solar systems an easy choice for most consumers. Installation for a house usually takes 1-7 days depending on the size and complexity of your system.

Often, solar systems can be installed without the need to regularly enter the house.

There are no moving parts to break (meaning no mechanical wear and tear) so systems will last many years without failure, but if it does stop, contact our customer service and request a visit. To be safe, do not attempt to repair the solar system yourself.

No. Solar panels are silent. However, the inverter may hum slightly.

Yes! Solar panels absorb various spectra of visible and invisible light, but the energy produced by your solar system will be less than when the sky is clear and sunny.

Yes! Solar Systems work in many weather conditions, and often work better in cold temperatures during winter months because cold temperatures cause an increase in the conductivity of metals.

Yes, your solar system should be placed where there are minimal amounts of shade from trees, buildings, chimneys, or objects.

The amount of space your solar system needs depends on the amount of electricity you want to generate. Most homes require between 120 ft² to 320 ft² equivalent to a solar system size of 2-5 kW.

If your roof is old or requires repair, fix or replace it at the same time you install a solar system to avoid future costs of removal and reinstallation of your solar system in order to access your roof.

Solar panels are tested to meet certain safety requirements such as impacts of 1” hail, wind loads up to 50PSF, and certain fire standards.