Solar Installation Morris County NJ

In an age where renewable energy solutions are not just a choice but a necessity, the appeal of solar power has never been stronger. With its promise of reduced electricity bills, a lighter carbon footprint, and energy independence, transitioning to solar energy seems like a no-brainer. Yet, a surprising number of homeowners are still hesitant to embrace this clean, sustainable power source. 

At Green House Solar, we understand the concerns that often cloud the decision to go solar. That’s why our team of solar panel experts in NJ are going to debunk the most common misconceptions that keep people from harnessing the sun’s abundant energy and saving money on electric bills. In this article, we’ll shed light on the top four reasons why people don’t go solar (pun intended) – providing the peace of mind you need to make a more informed choice.

#1. Solar Panels are Too Expensive! 

 

This is no longer the case! Did you know that the Federal Investment Tax Credit is 30% for solar panel installations starting in 2022 and has been extended through 2032. That is major installation cost savings you don’t want to miss out on. Plus, you may be eligible for other incentives like the NJ Solar Sales Tax Exemption which involves decreased costs for equipment and the NJ Property Tax Exemption that ensures homeowners are not paying increased taxes for installing solar panels that enhance their property value.

Not to mention that zero dollars down solar is an option for many homeowners.  Let your electrical bill savings pay for your solar! If you’d like to know more about the solar incentives available and which ones you qualify for, give us a call – we’d be happy to help. 

#2. Solar Panels Look Ugly! 

 

The look of solar panels have really come a long way over the years. They aren’t as bulky and have a sleeker look overall. At Green House Solar, we install SUNPOWER® panels, which just happen to be industry leading in durability, efficiency and aesthetics. And if you’re still not sold on having panels all over your roof, we can discuss other options like ground mounts. Believe it or not, some homeowners actually benefit more when their solar panels are placed elsewhere on the property. 

#3. Solar Systems Require Maintenance

 

Solar systems by SUNPOWER® are built to last and require minimal maintenance over their 25 year lifetime warranty. In the event that something does go wrong, your system components fall under the warranty that would cover replacement and repair costs. The best part about leasing a solar panel system is that repairs and routine maintenance are the leasing company’s responsibility, not yours. In layman’s terms, if you have a problem – just give Green House Solar a call and we’ll send over one of our solar technicians as soon as possible. 

#4. Solar Salesman can be Obnoxious

There are some big box solar salesmen out there that are really pushy, which give the rest of us a bad rap. At Green House Solar, we will never force you into something you’re not comfortable with and it’s an honest conversation. We are passionate about solar energy and have no problem taking the time to explain all aspects of installation and maintenance thoroughly. If all your roofs face north and are covered by trees, we’ll be honest about solar not being a good idea for you. From safety concerns to overall energy costs, our team will guide you from steps A to Z. The last thing we want is for you to be disappointed, confused or blindsided by anything that comes along with your home solar system. 

If you’d like to talk more about anything that has to do with home solar, please don’t hesitate to call us today! You could also learn more about our solar panel installation services by visiting our website at: https://greenhouse.solar

solar panels

At a high level, installing a home solar panel system is really establishing a power plant on your roof. So, it’s only natural to ask, is it safe? We understand that when it comes to your home and your loved ones living inside, safety is the number one priority – as it should be! That being said, the solar energy experts at Green House Solar are here to put your worries to rest. Our team has answered some frequently asked solar safety questions. Let’s take a closer look: 

Is solar safe for my home? 

There are a few aspects to Solar energy safety when looking at Residential Solar which typically involves panels installed on the roof. One aspect is the physical safety of the installation, the weight of them on your roof. Green House Solar’s team carefully inspects the condition of your roof, the age of your shingles, the sub-roof plywood and many other elements. Measurements are taken and calculations made to ensure that the roof structure is sufficient to support the weight of the solar system, including snow loads and anticipated wind shears and we will make or recommend appropriate repairs if necessary, prior to an installation. We will never place a solar array on a roof that can’t confidently support the weight for the lifetime of the panels. And with decades of solar experience, we don’t take shortcuts with materials or mounting options because they are faster/cheaper.

Are some solar systems safer for my home than others?

Another safety concern is the electrical aspects of solar safety. After all, the whole point of this is to have the panels generate and distribute voltages and currents to your home and possibly the grid, and potentially charge your backup battery system. All of this must be handled correctly and carefully to ensure maximum safety. 

At Green House Solar, we prefer systems utilizing micro-inverters for our residential customers. Micro-inverters convert the electricity generated from DC to AC at the solar panel. This means that the electricity on the roof is lower voltage (and safer) with micro-inverters as opposed to string inverters. Micro-inverters also have other advantages that maximize production when partial shading is a concern. 

One other thing to consider is the electrical knowledge base of the company designing and installing your solar system.  The owner of Green House Solar is a licensed electrical contractor. Our knowledge of code and general electrical work gives us a leg up on many installers who need to stick to one way of doing things.

What about solar back-up batteries? Which battery is safest for my home?

There are two main chemistry types of home energy storage batteries currently on the market – Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP).  Here at Green House Solar, we recommend and install LFP batteries exclusively because of their safer chemistry – they will not combust when punctured. 

What kinds of permits and approvals are required before my system can be installed? 

At the local municipal level, permit applications are submitted for structural and electrical approval, including fire official approval. State and utility submissions are also required. As is the case with many home improvement projects, following installation and commissioning, inspectors will review the work to ensure compliance with applicable codes and ordinances. 

What are some of the regulations that ensure my solar system is safe? 

There are many regulations in place to ensure that the design of your residential solar system is safe. These have evolved over time so that solar systems installed today are safer than ever.  Green House Solar follows all requirements and as mentioned before, we are licensed electricians. Regulations include fire codes which specify the size and location of pathways for firefighters should they need access. In addition, there are specific requirements for disconnects and shutoff capabilities that will stop electricity production immediately should the need arise. Stamped electrical and structural engineering designs are generally required for residential systems and are part of the permit application process.

Safe and Affordable Home Solar Panels in New Jersey

By choosing solar panels installed by licensed electricians, you not only enjoy the economic benefits of solar energy, but also do your part to create a cleaner and greener future. At Green House Solar, we can address all your safety concerns, help you navigate the process of installing solar panels, and take advantage of all the tax incentives available. From design to installation, our team will be there every step along the way to ensure a safe and reliable solar energy system for your home.

To learn more about the safety of solar panels, visit our website at: https://greenhouse.solar or book a free consult with us.

 

Going solar Investigate your home’s energy efficiency first

Congratulations on making the decision to go solar! Home solar systems allow you to reduce your energy consumption, harness the power of the sun for completely free and renewable energy, move away from your city’s power grid, and make a positive impact on the environment. But before you get started installing solar panels, we recommend you investigate and improve your home’s energy efficiency first. Here’s how to do it.

Schedule a home energy audit

No two homes are the same when it comes to energy usage. How much energy you use on average depends on the climate you live in, how large your home is, and how many people live there. A home energy audit will highlight where you’re using the most energy, as well as steps you can take to reduce the energy currently being used in your home.

Invest in energy-efficient electronics and appliances

Washing machines, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, ovens, and other appliances you use often can result in big energy bills every month. Many advances have been made in this space, and energy-efficient appliances are now the norm for many homes across the country. 

Make the switch to LED light bulbs

Most of us have at least one or two lights on in our homes at all times. This can be an issue if your light bulbs aren’t energy-efficient, as it can add up to significant energy usage and reflect in your electric bills. 

Understand how your heating and cooling systems will affect your solar needs

Those of us in New Jersey need a reliable heating system in the winter, as well as a reliable cooling system in the summer. If your HVAC system is electric, that means you’ll need significantly more solar energy to power your home, something you can discuss during your home energy audit. 

Homeowners across New Jersey are discovering the many benefits of home solar systems, and while there is no one-size-fits-all residential solar solution, our team of specialists will inspect your home and make customized recommendations for you. Despite what you might have heard, solar panels are not only for people who live in climates where it’s hot and sunny year round. 

If you’d like more information about your home solar options in NJ, or if you have any questions, please contact our team at Green House Solar today. We’ve been helping people in Morris County NJ with residential solar solutions for years and we look forward to hearing from you.

Residential solar Morris County NJ

Perhaps you’ve been thinking about installing a residential solar system, but you’re hesitant because you’ve heard they’re expensive. Most people know that solar panels help you reduce, and sometimes entirely eliminate, your monthly electricity costs while providing a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional electricity. However, there is still a lot of mystery surrounding the actual costs associated with buying and installing a home solar system. 

Sunlight is free, but the solar systems required to turn sunlight into energy that powers your home are not free. Decades ago, when people in the US started using solar panels on their roofs, the cost was considered prohibitive by many people. However, as solar panels have increased in popularity and have become more widely available, many homeowners are happy to discover that they are now quite affordable. 

Here are some facts about the costs associated with solar power:

  • The cost will be specific to your customized system and the final price will be influenced by several factors, including the size of your roof, how many panels you want, and which panels you choose.
  • Solar energy continues to become more affordable. According to the Climate Reality Project, the cost to produce one megawatt-hour of solar power fell a whopping 86% from 2009 to 2017!
  • According to a 2020 report released by the International Energy Agency, solar energy is now the cheapest electricity in the world. 
  • In the US, the average installation cost for residential solar panels is around $17k – $20k, and this is after redeeming the federal solar tax credit. There are numerous financing options available that we’ll discuss in more detail below.
  • On average, it takes around 5 – 7 years to save the amount of money you’ll spend to install your solar system. In addition, solar panels have an extremely long life, so you’ll enjoy reduced energy bills for many years to come.

Reducing your power costs with solar panels

If you’re concerned about the upfront cost of solar panel installation, you have several options including a solar lease or a solar loan. A solar lease works exactly the same as a car lease, you simply pay a monthly rate for as long as you have the solar panels. Solar leases operate with a fixed monthly fee, so the amount you pay won’t change, even when energy prices rise or fall. Solar loans are a popular choice because you typically won’t have to make any net payments – your solar panels make the payment for you and you receive instant savings. 

For more information about solar installation in Morris County NJ, or if you have any questions about solar loans, please contact our team at Green House Solar today. 

Home solar Morris County NJ

Once you’ve made the decision to install solar panels at home, it’s now time to find the best company to handle your residential solar installation. But in a competitive market like solar power, with numerous installers to choose from, how do you know which company is the best? What criteria should you look for? 

Choosing the right company is important, so to help in your search we’ve put together some tips to help you find the best solar company for you:

They should put safety first. Your solar company should only use the products that have the highest safety ratings. They should never sacrifice safety in the interest of budget or timelines. If you’re deciding between several solar companies, ask each of them to explain their safety standards and protocols, and ask about the safety ratings of their products. 

They’re well-established and have a long track record of customer satisfaction. Due to the growing interest in solar panels, we’ve seen numerous solar companies pop up during the last decade. While this isn’t a bad thing, you should seek out a company that has been around for at least a decade. There’s always a chance that a new solar will go under, leaving you without a warranty for your solar panels.

They have dependable after-sales support. Installing your solar panels isn’t the end of the job. Over the years, you may have questions and your solar panels might require some light maintenance. With that said, the solar company you hire should provide any additional support you need.

They’re licensed and insured. The solar company you choose should be fully licensed and insured, and able to show proof of all relevant qualifications, warranties, and other insurance policies before any installation work begins. Check their websites head to toe for a list of credentials.

A home solar company you can trust in NJ 

Choosing the best solar company for your home installation may take a bit of time, and we don’t recommend rushing the decision. Do a bit of online research to find client reviews, information about the company’s reputation, photos of their previous work, and other relevant information about them. Solar panels that are installed properly can last for many decades, providing you and your family with clean, renewable energy around the clock. 

For more information about residential solar panels, please contact our team at Green House Solar today. The most unique thing about us, may be that you are reading the blog of a solar installation company that actually does its own work. We are a small New Jersey business, but we have been doing this work for over a decade and it’s what we love…bringing this amazing green energy solution to regular people just like us. We’d be more than happy to come to your house and talk to you about how all this stuff works. Whether you have studied every technical and economic detail of solar energy systems in NJ, or are completely new to the idea. Either way, you will know exactly what you can and can’t expect from your residential solar solution when you choose Green House Solar

Home solar Morris County NJ

Are you considering installing solar panels at home? Like many homeowners, you may be searching for more budget-friendly and eco-friendly ways to power your home, and solar panels are often an excellent solution. They’re a popular choice for many reasons: solar energy is completely clean and truly a renewable energy source. Solar panels reduce electricity bills, they’re low maintenance, and they generate clean energy for your home, even on cloudy days. 

But how long do solar panels last, and can they be recycled when it’s time to replace them? 

Solar panels on average last around 25-30 years, and in addition to providing clean energy, nearly every part of a solar panel can be recycled and reused. As mentioned, solar panels have a very long life and most homes will enjoy their solar panels for as long as 30 years. Both silicon based and thin-film based panels are made up of several basic components – glass, plastic, aluminum, silicon, metals – with the recycling process being slightly different for each type.

Once silicon based solar panels are disassembled, 95% of the glass and 100% of the metal are reused. The materials are processed at an extremely high temperature during which the plastic evaporates and is then reused as a heat source. In the end, 85% of the silicon can be reused.

After thin-film panels are collected, they’re shredded into pieces as small as four to five millimeters in order to remove the lamination. Then, the parts made of metals are separated and processed while the glass is cleaned. Once a thin-film panel is completely broken down, 90% of the glass can be reused and 95% of the other materials are reused.

Because solar panels are relatively new, there is room for improvement in the recycling process. Not to mention, new recycling methods are currently being tested. But rest assured that your home solar panels are fully recyclable and no parts will go to waste. 

Clean energy with residential solar panels 

Did you know that you don’t need to live in a place where it’s sunny all the time to enjoy the benefits of solar panels? While some people falsely believe that solar panels only work when the sun is out in full force, solar panels can actually gather and store energy on cloudy days, and during the colder months as well. 

If you’ve been considering residential solar panels, give our team a call and learn more about the options available. We’ve been serving the Morris County NJ community for more than a decade and we’re passionate about making clean, renewable energy available to everyone. 

home solar

When it comes to being energy independent, home solar panels are an important component of living an energy-independent existence. Our homes use vast amounts of energy on a daily basis to keep our food chilled in the refrigerator, to keep our computers running so we can work, to heat our water for bathing and cooking, to keep our lights on, and many other activities we do every single day. Generating this energy also creates various greenhouse gasses, including CO2, and these gasses contribute to climate change. 

In an effort to reduce environmental impact, and to enjoy lower energy bills every month, many homeowners are opting to be energy independent by going off the grid. When you say “going off the grid”, some people envision reading by candlelight, boiling water for baths, and other old-timey stereotypes. But with today’s technology you can power your entire home using free and completely renewable energy, and you’ll be reducing your home’s environmental footprint while doing so. 

Steps you can take to become energy independent include:

  • Install solar panels on your home. Solar panels have skyrocketed in popularity as homeowners seek to be more environmentally friendly and to reduce their monthly energy costs. They’ve also become much more affordable over the years, and you can sell any excess energy you generate back to the power company. 
  • If you have solar panels, try to run your washing machine, your dishwasher, and any other appliances while the sun is shining to ensure they’re only using solar energy. You can also invest in solar storage and save your excess energy for later, rather than sell it back to the grid. 
  • While you can run some appliances on a sunny day, most homes use a lot of energy at night – light bulbs, televisions, computers, hot water, and more. Home energy solar storage systems, often called batteries, can hold a certain amount of solar energy that you can save for later use once the sun has set. Solar batteries are ideal for nighttime energy usage. 

Solar panels for your home 

Home solar panels are one of the easiest and fastest ways to become energy independent, and as mentioned above, they’re now more affordable than ever before. Using solar energy to power your home frees you from being tied to any power companies, it can make you exempt from being affected by power outages, and it greatly reduces the amount of greenhouse gasses your home releases into the atmosphere.

For more information about solar panels for your home, solar panel maintenance, or if you have any questions, please contact Greenhouse Solar today. We’re proud to be the preferred home solar provider for so many people in and around Morris County, NJ and we look forward to hearing from you.

Solar Installation Cost Morris County NJ

If you’re considering solar panel installation and are calculating the cost, it’s important to remember that solar panels require regular maintenance to keep them functioning properly. While it is possible to perform solar panel maintenance yourself, there are professionals who can help. So why do solar panels need to be maintained, and what does the maintenance include?

  • Eliminating dirt, dust, debris, and other buildup – Just as dust accumulates inside your home and requires regular cleaning, so do residential solar panels. Buildup makes it difficult for the solar panels to properly and fully absorb the sunlight, making them less efficient. It’s recommended to clean your solar panels at least once a year to keep them functioning at their best.
  • Checking for damage caused by extreme weather – While solar panels are designed to be durable, extreme weather can sometimes cause damage. In 2018 we saw that in North Carolina, during Hurricane Florence, the solar farms sustained only minimal damage as a result of extreme wind, rain, and flooding. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, extreme heat, hail, or lightning, it’s recommended to have your solar panels checked every year to ensure they haven’t sustained any weather-related damage. 
  • Monitor tree and shrub growth around your solar panels. The shade that trees and shrubbery cast onto your solar panels is one of the biggest inhibitors of efficiency. For example, if a tree casts a shadow over 50% of the cells in your solar panel, then 50% less energy will be produced, making them much less efficient. If there are areas of your roof that are completely shaded by trees, it would not be recommended to install solar panels in these areas, as they won’t absorb the sunlight they need to function. 

Solar panel installation for your home 

Compared to the cost of traditional energy, solar panels provide extremely affordable and environmentally-friendly energy that can power your whole home. When you invest in solar panel installation, you’re investing in a completely clean energy source that will last for decades, as the average lifespan of a residential solar panel is between 30 – 40 years. 

Residential solar panels do require maintenance, but the maintenance is not excessive nor is it expensive. As mentioned above, solar panels are extremely durable and can withstand heat, cold, wind, rain, and snow, and we recommend scheduling annual inspections to ensure your solar panels are in top condition and functioning at their most efficient. Regular maintenance ensures the longevity of your solar panels and protects your investment. 

For more information about the cost of solar panel installation, or if you have any questions, please contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you.

residential solar

Are you looking for experts in home solar systems in Morris County, NJ? At Green House Solar, we’ve been proudly delivering green energy solutions to our community for over a decade, and when it comes to residential solar technology we are here to help you understand your options and decide what works best for your home.

Solar panels are popular for many reasons: solar energy is completely clean and truly renewable energy, solar panels reduce electricity bills, they’re low maintenance, and even on cloudy days they generate clean energy for your home. Solar panels on average last around 25-30 years and many people want to know if their solar panels can be recycled when it’s time for them to be replaced. 

In addition to providing completely clean and renewable energy, nearly every part of a solar panel can be recycled and reused. But as mentioned above, solar panels have a very long life and most homes will enjoy their solar panels for as long as 30 years. Both silicon based and thin-film based panels are made up of several basic components – glass, plastic, aluminum, silicon, metals – and the recycling process is slightly different for each type.

Once silicon based solar panels are disassembled, 95% of the glass and 100% of the metal are reused. The materials are processed at an extremely high temperature during which the plastic evaporates and is then reused as a heat source. In the end, 85% of the silicon can be reused.

After thin-film panels are collected, they’re shredded into pieces as small as four to five millimeters in order to remove the lamination. Then the parts made of metals are separated out and processed, while the glass is cleaned. Once a thin-film panel is completely broken down, 90% of the class can be reused and 95% of the other materials is reused.

Because solar panels are relatively new, there is room for improvement in the recycling process and new recycling methods are currently being tested. The good news is that, as mentioned above, solar panels last on average around 30 years, meaning you won’t have to send them to the recycling center for a long time. 

Contact us for all your home solar needs 

If you’ve been considering residential solar panels, give our team of experts a call and start discussing your options. We’ve been serving the Morris County NJ community for more than a decade and we’re passionate about making clean, renewable energy available to everyone. We’re standing by and ready to speak with you about your home solar needs, so contact us today. We look forward to speaking with you.

solar power

These days, it’s common to see solar panels around your neighborhood – on the roofs of houses and businesses and at malls and healthcare centers. But how much do you actually know about the history of this renewable energy technology? Here are some interesting facts about solar power, from your local specialists in residential solar in Morris County, NJ.

1. They Reduce Pollution: 

A home’s solar panel system can reduce pollution by 100 tons of carbon dioxide emissions over its lifetime. This includes mitigating the only pollution associated with this system – the greenhouse gasses emitted during production.

2. Solar Panels Keep Dropping in Price:

Despite the technology behind these panels continually becoming more and more advanced, solar panels and residential solar systems have dropped significantly in the last 10 years. And, they are predicted to continue falling in price. In fact, solar panels themselves have dropped 80% in price alone! This is because the demand for this tech is growing in popularity, so it’s more affordable for companies to produce more panels. It’s also one of the reasons why there are so many affordable ways to install solar in your home.

3. Solar Power Is Free Power: 

Once you’ve purchased your home solar system, you don’t have any more energy bills to pay. That’s because, unlike other natural fuel sources like gas, nuclear, and coal, sunshine is free and accessible. There’s no additional processes, infrastructure or transport that has to be managed. And because the sun will be here longer than even we will, you never have to worry about running out of this resource. With solar, you can say goodbye to worries about power costs in Morris County, NJ.

4. New Jersey Will Pay YOU for Energy: 

The State of New Jersey is pushing the transformation to renewable energy and away from costly, polluting and limited coal-based energy. To do this, they’re actively incentivizing households to invest in solar systems. One of the ways they’re doing this is through the SRECs program, where you can sell your excess solar energy to supply the grid. That way, you pay off your solar system faster, earn more once it’s paid off, and help other people on the grid benefit from renewable energy. 

5. Solar Is One of the Fastest-Growing Industries in the USA: 

While many industries are struggling, solar is adding new jobs every day, from researchers working on more efficient technology and applications for solar technology (NASA is working on a solar-powered aircraft!) to the companies that are installing, maintaining and supplying solar systems. In 2016, there were around 260,000 people working in the industry – by 2021, there will be more than 360,000.

Find Out How Solar Can Be Your Solution to High Power Cost in Morris County, NJ 

At Greenhouse Solar, we offer the latest in powerful, reliable, and affordable residential solar in Morris County, NJ. As a small local company dedicated to great customer service, our fully-certified and experienced team is ready to design, install, and maintain your solar system, ensuring you get all the benefits of clean and affordable energy. Our work is ethical, honest, and professional, and we help you save by avoiding the massive cost overhead of working with big-box solar electric companies. We are an authorized dealer of SunPower solar systems, the same solar cells that NASA uses to power the GROVER Project. 

To find out more about residential solar in Morris County NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at https://greenhouse.solar/