Frequently Asked Questions

We’re here to answer all of your questions whenever you need it.

Installation, Equipment & General Questions

How can I purchase solar for my home?

SOAR Energy has a national network of sales representatives. Contact us today to have us connect you with a representative near you.

Can I cancel my order?

You are eligible to cancel your order before installation starts. However, once installation has begun, cancellation is ineligible. Feel free to contact our Customer Service department if you need further assistance.

How do I get in contact with a Sales Representative?

If you are unable to get in contact with your Sales Representative, feel free to contact our Customer Service department. They will provide answers to any questions you may have as well as connect you with you Representative.

What is the status of my project?

At SOAR Energy, we aim to keep you informed of your project every step of the way. Our team will provide updates and notifications during your installation process to keep you informed of the status. You can also contact our Customer Service department for more information.

How long will it take from the time I order to installation of my system?

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What are tier-one panels?

Tier one solar panels undergo a series of testing from multiple third parties before earning the designation as one of the industry-leading panels. SOAR Energy only offers top-of-the-line equipment and can guarantee that any panel installed on your home will be a universally agreed-upon tier one panel

What is the benefit of SolarEdge inverters?

SolarEdge inverters have multiple benefits over the competition.

1. Max Efficiency – SolarEdge converts over 99% of solar energy into usable energy inside your home. While not far off, the competition only converts around 97%.

2. Seamless Integration – SolarEdge offers a suite of products that can work with your solar system. SOAR Energy will include Power Optimizers and System Monitoring with every solar system. You can also choose to purchase a SolarEdge EV charger or Battery system, which will seamlessly integrate with their web application.

3. Safe to Service – If anything goes wrong with your inverter, it can be serviced from the ground level. Compare that to the competition, which would require a technician to walk on your roof and potentially cause damage to the roof or themself.

What does a Power Optimizer do?

A power optimizer allows every panel in your solar system to operate independently. This means if one panel stops working, the rest of the solar system will still function just fine.

What mounting equipment does SOAR Energy use?

SOAR Energy uses industry-leading mounting equipment on every project. For most roof types, we use the Unirac mounting system. Unirac offers low profile, lightweight racking, which is designed to prevent roof leaks and allow your solar system to be mounted with as few roof incisions as possible.

What battery options are available?

SOAR Energy is proud to offer industry-leading battery storage solutions. We offer a unique no-backup SolarEdge battery that allows you to sell power produced by your solar system back to the utility grid during times when energy credits are the most valuable, leading to maximum savings with solar. Alternatively, if you would like protection from blackouts, SOAR Energy also offers Tesla Powerwalls 2’s and Franklin batteries. These options allow for the same benefit as the SolarEdge battery with the additional ability to backup your home in the event of a power outage.

How does system monitoring work?

Once your system is activated, you will have the ability to monitor the energy production from your solar system for a full 25 years using the SolarEdge web-based monitoring application.

What if I need a re-roof?

SOAR Energy is partnered with a number of local roofing partners that value customer experience and communication just as much as we do. If you would like or need a new roof prior to installing solar SOAR Energy will work with our local partners to provide you with the most competitive estimate possible.

How do I get access to Solar Edge to monitor my system?

Following System Activation, SOAR Energy will be able to monitor your system production live in the SolarEdge monitoring portal. You will receive monitoring access once your system is activate and you will receive your login info via email. In addition, we will give you a call to help get you set up.

Can I add the cost of the reroof to my solar financing?

In many cases yes. However, different finance companies have different rules about how much of the project cost can be for a new roof compared to the cost of solar. Check with your solar representative to see which finance companies allow reroofing costs to be included and how much they may allow.

What if I have an issue with the equipment or production?

If you experience any issues with the functionality of your solar system, please contact Customer Success immediately using the live chat bubble at the bottom right of the screen.

How can I get assistance fast when experiencing an urgent issue?

The best way to reach us regarding any urgent issues is by using our live chat bubble at the bottom right corner of the screen. Our Customer Support team will be able to submit an urgent service ticket on your behalf and ensure you receive a response as quickly as possible.

How do I prepare for my installation?

When scheduling the installation, our scheduling team will walk you through everything you need to know to best prepare for installation day.

When will I be able to schedule my installation?

As soon as we have received a building permit and all other approvals associated with your solar project, the SOAR Energy scheduling team will contact you with the soonest available date for installation. In nearly all cases, your installation will be scheduled within two weeks from the scheduling date.

What equipment is being installed at my home? Where is it being placed?

SOAR Energy will install a number of components on your home on the day of installation, including solar panels, a mounting system, a conduit, an inverter, and any other equipment you may have selected during the buying process. The racking system and panels will be installed on the agreed-upon roof planes from your solar system design. The inverter is most commonly installed near your other electrical equipment and meters on the outside of the home. The conduit will be installed to connect the wires from the solar panels to the solar inverter and other electrical equipment.

Do I need to be home during installation?

During the install scheduling call, our scheduling team will determine if you need to be home during the installation.

Can I ask the crew to change the design on the day of installation?

While we ask that you finalize the preferred location of your solar system before the installation, there may be some situations where it makes logical sense to change the location of the solar panels based on the reality of your home when we arrive on site.

How long will the installation crew be at my house?

In a majority of cases, our installation crews will complete their work within 6 to 8 hours. In some cases, the installation may require multiple days. If this is the case, our scheduling team will set expectations for how long we may need to be on-site during those additional days. If your installation ends up taking more than one day for any reason, please refer to our Scheduling Team to quote you on the next available date as it may not always be the next day.

What happens after the system is installed? Can I turn it on right away?

After the solar system is installed, we will schedule an inspection with your local city or town as soon as possible. Once the inspection is passed we will receive permission to operate from your utility provider. Once approval is received, your system will be activated and you will begin saving money!

SITE SURVEY AND DESIGN

Can I make changes to my system?

For any changes that need to be made to your system, contact your Sales Representative to confirm if they can be accommodated.

How long does it take to complete my design after the site survey?

Design times can vary based on the complexity of the project. Your Sales Representative will work with you to keep you informed of the expected timeframe.

How does SOAR Energy design systems?

A lot of factors are taken into consideration when designing systems. We consider factors such as your home's previous kilowatt-hour usage, projected future energy needs, and efficiency of your roof to determine design.

What happens at the site survey?

We send a technician to your home to assess your roof, electric panel, and utility meters. In some cases, the the technician will need to inspect the quality of your roof to make sure we can safely install the rafters and solar panels on your home.

Do I need to provide a utility bill?

A recent utility bill is needed to help us determine your home's energy usage.

How do I review my design and payment details?

After our technician surveys the site, your Sales Representative will provide you with a final version of your solar system design. This document will also include your sales proposal along with your payment details for the project.

Why does my solar design show panels on the north side of my roof?

Depending on your home, it may be necessary to use the north-facing side of your roof in order to maximize the solar system's energy production.

What is the difference between no-backup, partial backup and whole home backup with battery storage?

No-backup battery storage options are designed for clients in markets in which utility companies allow them to "sell" or export excess energy produced by the homeowner's solar system back to the power grid during peak times. No-backup options only store a small amount of power as the battery is not designed to be used in the event of a power outage.

Back-up battery options have the same capabilities that the no-backup options have and include additional energy storage with the capacity to power essential appliances in your home in the event your power goes out.

The main difference between partial and whole home backup is the energy storage and the capacity to power a number of appliances during a power outage.

What can a battery system back up?

Battery systems have the capacity to back up any electrical appliance in your home. The number of appliances that can be backed up will depend on the storage of your backup battery.

I would like to add more panels, can I do that?

We understand that your energy needs may change. Therefore, if you need to add more panels, we're happy to help. To get inquire about additional panels you can contact our Customer Service department to get started.

Cost, Payment, and Incentives

Will the final price change after I place my order?

In most cases, no, but there are some situations where following the site survey during the design phase, we may determine that additional work is needed for your project to be possible. If this occurs, you’ll have the opportunity to review the updated price before the installation.

Will I still have a utility bill?

Yes. With that said, you will still receive regular electric bills to show how much power was generated from your solar system compared to how much power you may have used from the grid. Depending on your utility provider, any excess energy usage may be billed at regular intervals or once annually. In addition, there is typically a fixed cost per billing cycle to be connected to the grid. For a more specific breakdown check with your utility provider or contact Customer Success.

Will I obtain tax credits and other incentives?

Tax Credit-

If you choose an ownership option, you will be eligible to receive up to 30% of the value of the system as a tax credit from the federal government. Please note that while you may be eligible for the tax credit, your ability to claim the tax credit is entirely dependent on your individual tax situation. SOAR Energy does not give tax advice and cannot guarantee your ability to claim the tax credit. We recommend contacting your tax professional for advice on if you would be able to claim the tax credit.

Incentives-

In some cases, SOAR Energy may apply for additional incentives on your behalf. This will vary from market to market, so please check with your sales representative for more specific details.

When is my payment due?

If you are paying for the system outright, $1000 is due at signing. 90% of the remaining balance is due on the day of installation, with the final 10% being due on the day of an approved inspection. If you are financing the system, your first billing date may vary depending on the finance provider you choose. Most finance providers will begin billing within 60 to 90 days after your installation is complete. Contact Customer Success or check with your sales representative or for complete details.

How can I pay?

If paying for the system outright, you may pay by ACH or virtual checking account. If using a finance option, check with your finance provider on which payment methods will be accepted for your monthly bill.

Homeowner's Associations

Do I need to obtain approval from my Homeowners Association (HOA) to proceed with Installation?

SOAR Energy does not require HOA approval to proceed with the installation. In most of the markets we operate in, there are laws preventing HOA’s from having a significant impact on your ability to go solar. While this is the case, it may be in your best interest to follow the local rules and regulations of your homeowner’s association to avoid any unnecessary fines, fees or simply avoid upsetting the neighbors.

What do I do if my HOA approved my project?

If you have received proof of HOA approval, please send it to customer support team as soon as possible.

What do I do if my HOA denied my project?

In nearly all areas that SOAR Energy operates in, there are laws preventing HOAs from significantly impacting your ability to go solar. If you are denied by your HOA, please contact SOAR Energy's Customer Success team and we can equip you with information to help overturn that decision. Alternatively, we may be able to adjust your system design to meet the requirements of your HOA.

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Inspection & Utility Approval

How long does it take for the inspection to occur?

We intend to complete your inspection within 30 days of the installation being completed. However, Inspection timelines can vary depending on a number of factors. While SOAR Energy is committed to proper planning and accuracy, residential construction always poses some challenges that cannot be fully understood until the day of installation. In some cases, small changes may occur during the installation that are different from our original plans. If this happens, we may have to update our building permit prior to being able to schedule the inspection. This process may take a few weeks or even months depending on the city or town you live in. If the initial inspection fails for any reason, this process may need to be repeated resulting in longer than normal timelines for your system to be activated. We will do everything in our power to avoid this situation and can assure you that the project is never finished for us until your inspection is approved and your solar system is activated and generating electricity.

How do I prepare for my inspection?

There is no action needed from you for the inspection to occur.

How long does the inspection take?

Inspection timelines can vary for every city or town, they usually consist of a SOAR Energy technician waiting a few hours for an inspector to arrive and once arrived, the inspection is usually done within 30 minutes. Every city and town have different inspection scheduling processes and very rarely do they give us a specific time for the inspection to occur.

What happens after the inspection passes?

As soon as your inspection is passed, SOAR Energy will proceed with the process to activate your solar system. This process will vary depending on your utility provider. Please contact Customer Success for more details.

Is there anything I can do to help the utility process move quicker?

Unfortunately, utility providers operate at their own speed. SOAR Energy will follow up on your behalf until the process is complete.

Warranties, Guarantees, & Other Benefits

What is a performance guarantee?

SOAR Energy is proud to offer an industry-leading performance guarantee with every solar system we install.

Is there a roof warranty?

In the event that SOAR Energy makes incisions into your roof to install the solar panels, we will offer a full 10-year roof warranty following the installation of the system. SOAR Energy will completely cover any damage to your roof or home.

Is there an installation timeline guarantee?

SOAR Energy is proud to offer a 60-Day installation timeline guarantee for qualifying projects. If your project qualifies, SOAR Energy will commit to installing your solar system within 60 days from final design approval or we will cover a year’s worth of your solar bill payments up to $2000.

What is Givepower?

Givepower is a charitable organization focused on giving the gift of solar energy to those who need it most. SOAR Energy is proud to donate to Givepower with every solar installation we complete. Every few months, SOAR Energy sends a team of representatives to a remote location to install a solar system for a community in need alongside Givepower. Check out our latest videos from our trek to Nepal, and look out for more information on our latest trek to Columbia coming soon.

What is Pearl Certification?

Pearl Certification is the standard for homes that go above and beyond to keep you comfortable, healthy, and save energy. Pearl aims to be the Carfax of home improvements by validating work done by contractors for homeowners. The certificate is transferable to any new home buyers and can help reassure new home buyers of the quality of their solar system. SOAR Energy is the largest residential solar installation company partnered with Pearl. Every SOAR Energy customer will receive a Pearl certificate indicating that the solar system installed consists of high-quality materials and was completed by a high-quality installation company.