Maricopa County Home Shows Blog

When is a Good Time to Replace Your Windows, And What is a Good Window? by Eco Advantage

• Date Posted: May 16th, 2012      • Posted Under: Blog, Category, Lifestyle, Outdoor, Security
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When Is A Good Time To Replace Your Windows?

Windows in a home can increase comfort, asthetics, and value. They allow in natural light and fresh air, and provide outdoor views for those inside. They help reduce sound, pollutants and other allergens. They also help insulate your home and, in the process, reduce your overall energy costs. The US Department of Energy indicates that 40% of your annual heating and cooling bill can be affected by your windows!

So how do I know it’s time to replace them? Here are a few indicators:

  1. The existing windows are single pane. This is the least efficient type of window glass. Allowing heat in, and cold out!
  2. The frames are made of aluminum. Aluminum is a good conductor of cool & heat, which is NOT what you want in a window frame. In fact up to 28% of your energy waste can be due to the window frames!
  3. Draftiness. This indicates a poor installation and allows free flowing air in & out. Often poor installation can have the same effect as missing a brick or two in a wall!
  4. High Energy Bills! If you see unusual increases not caused by unusual weather or utility rate hikes, it may be an indicator that your existing windows have become ineffective. This can be evidenced by broken seals, condensation between panes, frost on the inside, shattered or cracked glass, and even jammed windows (indicating the house may have settled and now the windows are pinched or off center).
  5. Sometimes it’s just a need for more convenience. Old hard to clean windows can be replaced with new tilt-in types that allow for easy cleaning and maintenance.

What Is A Good Window?

There are many misconceptions that homeowners have about replacement windows. Let’s sift through some of them!

  1. If single pane is bad, double pane is good, then triple pane must be better! NOT SO! Consistently double pane outperforms all other window types. Typically there are 7 elements to think about on replacement windows. a) Cost, b) Materials, c) Install Process, d) U Value, e) SHGC Solar Heat Gain Coefficiency, f) Visible Light Transmittance, and g) Sound Reduction. We will look at each item in depth as our series on Replacement Windows continues.
  2. Anyone can install them. NOT SO! While it is not rocket science, installing a window is an acquired skill. A window will only perform well if it is installed correctly. A poorly installed window can be difficult to open & close, it can leak, and be drafty, just to name a few. You should be as comfortable with the installer as you are the saleman.
  3. Vinyl coated is as good as vinyl made; Aluminum is the longest lasting, Wood is too much work. NOT SO! Climate has a lot to do with what windows work best for you. In Arizona virgin vinyl or wood coated vinyl perform best. Aluminum is like a brick missing in your wall!
  4. They are very expensive! NOT SO! While expense is often relative to your pocketbook, overall, replacing windows costs very little because you are paying for them in high energy bills anyway! Might as well get new ones and save money in the long run as they will repay the expense in 5-8 years of lower energy bills, and increased home value!
  5. Shopping around will find the best value. NOT SO! :-) Eco Advantage always has the best price! :-)

If you are interested in Eco Advantage, Please Click Here!

Awning Works and The Work They Have Done

• Date Posted: May 15th, 2012      • Posted Under: Awnings, Blinds & Shutters, Blog, Category, home improvement, Outdoor
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Company Information

Leroy Howard has been working in the awning fabrication and installation business since 1985. Initially working as an installer/salesman for Canopy Craft, he moved on to open Awning Works in 1995, and expanded his expertise to include operations manager and owner, supervising a shop of over 15 employees. The company soon became one of the most well-known names in awning fabrication in the greater Phoenix Metro area, and the company enjoyed enthusiastic word-of-mouth recommendations from one customer to another.

Dan Hoag opened Eaglewings Iron Craft in 1983, and fabricated primarily ornamental iron and weight equipment products. Dan began working with Canopy Craft in 1990, doing fabrication, installation, and estimates. When Awning Works opened its doors in 1995, Dan continued to collaborate with Leroy on awning projects, providing the metal frames needed for specialty awnings and other custom steel fabrication needs. Awning Works thrived and grew, and both Awning Works and Eaglewings Iron Craft benefitted from this informal partnership.

In 2009, Eaglewings Iron Craft and Awning Works proudly formalized this partnership, and both companies now operate under the auspices of Eaglewings Iron Craft, LLC. Customers will now benefit from over 50 years of combined experience, from two of the most knowledgeable and skilled professionals in the field of awning fabrication.

Maintaining Your Awning

Awnings are a practical and cost-effective way to beautify your home, while increasing energy efficiency. From simple window awnings to retractable models used outdoors, your awning will last longer and look better if you follow these simple guidelines.

Regular Cleaning

  • Any stain (i.e. bird droppings, mud, dirt, etc.) will be easier to remove if attended to quickly.
  • Brush dirt and debris off of your awnings on a regular basis using a stiff broom or brush.
  • Use only water, mild soap and a brush, along with cold or lukewarm water to clean your awnings.
  • In between deep cleanings, it’s a good idea to periodically rinse awnings with clear water.

Regular maintenance inspections can help you to identify and correct problems with your awnings before they become irreparable. You may consider doing this on a monthly basis or more frequently if weather has been severe. Repair rips and tears as soon as they occur. The wind and rain can quickly cause the tear to grow.

With regular care and maintenance, your awnings will serve you for many years, and it’s easy to make awning care a regular part of your yearly home care schedule. Develop a maintenance schedule that you can handle, then sit back and enjoy your awnings.

If You Are Interested in Awning Works, Please Click Here

Stone Systems of Arizona Company Information

• Date Posted: May 14th, 2012      • Posted Under: Blog, Category, Kitchen and Bath, Remodeling
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Company Information

Stone Systems delivers the single largest fabrication network in the world. All of the companies are stone fabrication shops referred to as Stone Systems. Each shop, run by a General Manager, fabricates and distributes within their territory to bring you the best products and designs for kitchen countertops, bathrooms, flooring and more.

  • Over 4 million square feet of countertops installed in any given year
  • All shops are certified Silestone, Sensa, and ECO installers
  • Automatic activation of warranty after installation
  • Employee background checks
  • Uniformed employees (name badges with ID#)
  • Guaranteed installation within 10 business days!

The Stone Systems companies is the largest network of commonly owned stone fabrication shops in the North America.. Currently, there are 15 Stone Systems shops located in Arizona, Atlanta, Central Texas, Chicago, Colorado, Houston, Minnesota, New England, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Texas, Orlando, Raleigh and South Florida.

If You Are Interested In Stone Systems, Please Click Here To Contact Them!

About Paramount Windows and What They Do!

• Date Posted: May 11th, 2012      • Posted Under: Blog, Category, Windows and Doors
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About Paramount Windows

Manufacturer and Distributo

The Paramount® team manufactures many products under the Paramount® name. The company also distributes vinyl windows and doors, high-end aluminum windows and doors, acrylic block and glass block from a number of quality manufacturers including Windsor, Builder’s Accessories, Western Window Systems and Jeldwen.

Our experience in the window business and, specifically, the Greater Phoenix marketplace, has taught us which manufacturers offer the best products and share our vision of quality and service. Homebuilding companies have specific needs, and because we have the unique capacity to serve all market segments, they appreciate the convenience and economy of a single-source supplier who can offer complete turnkey service including installation by some of the finest installers in the Valley.

Paramount’s® Custom and Luxury Division has earned a reputation for what Paramount® calls “Right First, Fast Second”: Deliver the product correctly, deliver it when promised, and don’t compromise quality for speed.

Quality Products, Efficient Service, On-Time Delivery

For the high-end customer or the tract builder, Paramount® knows that service and relationships make the difference between a customer who is satisfied and one who is not. “Builders’ needs are simple,” Regina said. “They want quality products, efficient service, on-time complete deliveries and a fair price. The want what Paramount® has always believed: ‘Honesty and Integrity above all.’ But, at the time Paramount was conceived, no one window vendor had all of these attributes.”

Paramount® is also keen to changes in the industry and the economy. “Because we are a privately held company, we are very nimble and can react very quickly to changes in the marketplace,” Regina noted. “We don’t have to navigate the corporate jungle to get things done.”

In fact, Paramount® recently invested more than $6 million adding new equipment and technology. “The window industry for many years was relatively low-tech,” Regina explained, “but now we have seen many advances in manufacturing equipment, information technologies, high-performance glazing options, and energy-efficient product offerings.”

For instance, an automated glass-optimization system has reduced labor and costs and created manufacturing efficiencies, and a fully automated insulated glass line has quadrupled the company’s capacity to produce insulating glass panels – also generating operating efficiencies and reducing costs. “Paramount is poised for high volume – with a high emphasis on quality,” Regina said. “Even though we are one of the largest window companies in the Southwest, we still manage to keep that small-company feel through very personalized service.”

Why Choose Us?

  1. Largest Selection of Windows & Doors in Arizona
  2. Lifetime Warranty
  3. Energy Star Certified
  4. Financing To Fit Any Budget

If You Are Interested In Paramount Windows, Please Click Here!

An Informed Consumer Makes A Better Consumer by Guardian Energy Solutions

• Date Posted: May 10th, 2012      • Posted Under: Air Conditioning, Blog, Category, Green, Heating and Cooling, Remodeling, Roofing, Solar
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Choosing the right Contractor

Selecting the right company to work on your home is a big decision. You want to be sure that the company can do the work proposed, will take care of your home in the process, and will maintain an adequate level of attention to your project. We believe that an informed consumer makes a better customer, so we have created this list of items to considering a project for your home.

  • Get additional estimates if you feel that you are not completely comfortable with a proposed project.
  • Make your selection based on overall value not just cost. Spending a little less to get an end product that you are not pleased with is no bargain.
  • Make sure that the contractor is licensed and registered in your state.
  • Make sure that the contractor has appropriate insurance to do business and to protect your interests.
  • Make sure that the contractor has extensive experience in the type of work that is being proposed.
  • Make sure you are comfortable with the exact details of the proposal and what is included. Be sure that the specifications of the equipment being proposed are outlined in detail.
  • Make sure you understand the warranty coverage being offered both by the contractor and by the equipment manufacturer. The contractor should offer labor warranty protection for at least one year.
  • Make sure that the contractor will obtain all necessary permits and project inspections.
  • If coordination is required with the contractor and other resources such as the fuel supplier make sure you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities for the scheduling and payments of these services.
  • Check out the contractors references.
  • Make sure you have a firm understanding of the job time table and projected completion date.
  • Make sure that you are completely comfortable with the communication channels and comfort levels you share with the contractor.

We believe that more you know about us and our business the more comfortable you will be with our work, and the more pleased you will be with our results.

If You Are Interested In Guardian Energy, Please Click Here!

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A Little Information about Safe Racks!!

• Date Posted: May 9th, 2012      • Posted Under: Blog, Category, Cleaning, home improvement, Home Improvement Supplies, Lifestyle, Outdoor, Storage & Closet Organizers
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SafeRacks’ is the premier provider of overhead garage storage. Our goal is to provide the highest quality ceiling racks designed to utilize wasted space in your garage. We pride ourselves on delivering the best product and supporting it with outstanding service.

  • Use the Space You Already Own
  • Customized Heights to Fit Any Garage
  • Holds up to 600 Pounds
  • Installation Available by Proffessionals
  • Get DIY Kits for the Handyman
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty
  • Idustrial Strength Steel with Powder Coat Finish

SafeRacks’ patented design is intended to be the strongest overhead storage solution available with a lifetime warranty to back it up.

Frequently Asked Questions


What are the minimum height requirements for installation?

Since authorized SafeRacks™ installers customize the racks in your garage, they can adjust the racks to ANY height you’d like. (1″ storage or greater)

What is the storage volume for a SafeRacks™ rack?

On an 8′ x 4′ rack, with the height adjusted to 46″, the storage volume is 128 cubic feet.

Can I install the units myself?

Yes. We recommend that you use an authorized SafeRacks installer or qualified handyman, however, if you would like to install the racks yourself, you will need to let the sales representative know what height you would like the racks to hang. This will allow your local distributor to cut the vertical supports for you prior to delivery.

Notes: The horizontal support hangs 3″ below the top of the wire mesh decking. Make sure to leave at least 1″ clearance between the bottom of the rack and any objects such as a garage door opener or cabinets. Installation instructions are prepared for homeowners who are familiar with the basic installation of shelves, cabinets and storage racks and who understand and can locate the layout of ceiling joists.

What are the tools required to install the SafeRacks™ Overhead storage systems?

We recommend the following tools:
  • Eye Protector
  • 8′ ladder
  • Rubber mallet
  • Cordless drill
  • 3/16″ drill bit
  • 7/16″ drill nut driver
  • 7/16″ open end wrench
  • Stud finder (deep scan/ electronic)
  • Drywall caulking
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil
  • 1/2″ Nut driver

Can I have my SafeRacks™ units installed professionally?

Yes! Contact your Authorized SafeRacks™ Distributor or Dealer and they will provide you with information on local installers.

What is the SafeRacks™ warranty?

All SafeRacks™ overhead storage systems come with a limited lifetime product warranty to the original purchaser. Proof of purchase must be provided

How long does it take to install SafeRacks racks?

It will typically take an authorized SafeRacks installer ~1 hour per rack to install.

Are your installers insured?

Yes. All authorized SafeRacks distributors are required to carry insurance.

If SafeRacks does not have an authorized distributor in my area, may I still order products?

Yes. SafeRacks can always ship products for you to install yourself, or you may locate a local handyman to support your installation.

Can I become an authorized SafeRacks reseller?

Yes. Anyone may apply to become an authorized reseller.

What happens if I order the wrong SafeRacks™ sizes and the installer realizes it will not fit in my garage?

SafeRacks™ is available in 7 different sizes and 3 different depths. Authorized installers carry additional sizes and quantities when they come to your house. Should you change your mind on the size or quantity of units, the installer will be able to adjust your order and installation while at your home. You are not required to pay until your racks are fully installed. (Or delivered / shipped)

What do I do if I receive a damaged unit or missing parts?

Contact the authorized SafeRacks™ Distributor or Dealer who sold you the product and they will replace or fix the product.

If You Are Interested in Safe Racks, Please Click Here!

The Technology by Bionic Band

• Date Posted: May 7th, 2012      • Posted Under: Blog, Category, Green, Health, Lifestyle, Outdoor
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Scientists have stated, “In the whole universe, there is only energy and information.” Bionic Resonance Technology™ (BRT™) is based on this fundamental principle. All products with BRT™ may change the destructive vibrations or frequencies being sent to the body. These damaging frequencies that bombard our bodies come from radio waves, electro-smog, electro magnetic radiation (EMF), and so on. BRT™ infused products may neutralize these harmful frequencies. Our general well-being is improved and our health is stabilized on a long-term basis. BRT™ products may give you new quality of life and more vitality!

The BionicFamily has developed a propitiatory process that imprints BRT™ into our product line. There is no way to directly measure this new vibration. We can only measure the results or side effects from it. A whole range of simple tests can be performed that show dramatic results produced when BRT™ products are placed on the human body. One of the tests is a simple strength test that can be used to demonstrate how products with BRT™ impact the consumer’s strength. 

BRT™ products work by utilizing the principle known as sympathetic resonance. Sympathetic resonance is a harmonic phenomenon wherein a vibration responds to an external vibration which it has a harmonic likeness. The classic example is demonstrated with two similar tuning forks, one of which is mounted on a wooden box. If the other one is struck, placed on the box, and then muted, the un-struck mounted fork will be heard.

We would like to point out that BRT™ enhanced products are not remedies and may not be considered as such. They cannot replace medical treatment. The BionicFamily expressly points out that all information on health improvements are based on reports of the experiences of buyers and users of our products- not scientific evidence. User statements about the effects of our products have not been checked for accuracy and are made without guarantee. The degree and extent of improvement are individual and dependent on circumstances, and can therefore vary hugely.


BRT™ is the perfect example of the future happening now. Consumers who wear products with our frequencies have told us that they experience more energy, better balance, increased strength, improved well-being, and greater flexibility. BRT™ enhanced products could protect you and your family from critical health issues faced by the industrialized nations of the world.

If you would like to contact Bionic Band, Please Click Here

The Difference By Kitchen Craft

• Date Posted: May 7th, 2012      • Posted Under: Category, Cleaning, Green, Health, Kitchen and Bath
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Kitchen Craft cookware was first manufactured in West Bend, Wisconsin over 100 years ago. You can feel secure in the fact that you’re investing in the best and investing in America. With the invention of stainless steel, Kitchen Craft improved even more. Kitchen Craft Cookware that has been used for over 50 years still looks amazing. Fifty years ago, the cookware was 3-ply. We have now perfected a way of cladding 7 metals together. This created the most even heat conductivity imaginable, resulting in the most energy efficient thermal core cooking system available.

Kitchen Craft Cookware offers:


  • Oven safe handles
  • Dripless edges
  • Vapor seal covers that allow for water-free cooking instead of waterless

The warranty is lifetime and your customer service department is in West Bend, WI USA

American Made vs. Foreign Made


Kitchen Craft Cookware is manufactured in America in a green certified factory. The factory has over 100 years of security and service with refurbished presses that were used during World War II to make artillery shells.

American Made means:

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  • The suppliers and metals that your cookware are made of are proudly made in America with the highest quality surgical stainless steel.
  • Your cookware was made under healthy conditions rather than in a foreign sweat shop.
  • 9,000 American families are working because you bought American made cookware.
  • You made the right choice.

If you are interested in Kitchen Craft Cookware, Please Click Here!

The Daily Fix: Remove Oil Stains From a Garage Floor by Sledge Concrete Coatings

• Date Posted: May 4th, 2012      • Posted Under: Blog, Cleaning, Concrete Coatings, Flooring, Health, Outdoor
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Oil stains are almost inevitable on garage floors. Here are a few easy methods for soaking up these concrete blemishes.

There are good reasons for getting rid of oil on your garage floor. It not only looks messy, but the oil can get tracked into the house by you, your family members and pets. And if you’re striving to create and maintain a healthy home, oil and its toxins are the last thing you want coating your floors, especially if you have small children.

Luckily, you can use these three everyday materials to soak up oil on your garage floor.

1. Kitty Litter-Petco


If you have unused kitty litter on hand, you’re in luck. If you need to go out and buy some, even the cheapest brand will do.

To begin, cover the oil or oil stain with a heavy coating of litter. (How much depends on the amount of oil present.) A thick coating takes more; a slight sheen takes less.

Once there is enough material down to absorb the oil, do a dance on top of the area. That’s right: Use the bottom of your sturdy shoes (not expensive Italian sandals; old sneakers are more like it!) to ground the litter into the floor.

When you’re done, sweep up the litter. The oil stain just be gone — or at least much more subtle.

2. Baking Soda-Ace Hardware


Is there anything this miracle product cannot do?

For oil stains, wet the area a little first, and then sprinkle it liberally with baking soda. Let it sit for a while while you get a pot of water up to a boil.

Being careful not to burn or scald yourself, pour some hot water onto the baking soda. Let it cool a little, and then scrub the area with a stiff bristle brush (not a wire brush, it will scratch the concrete). Repeat as necessary, and rinse until the oil stain is a dim memory.

3. Dawn Dishwashing Soap-The Home Depot


Dawn dish soap is what many wildlife experts use to remove oil from birds and turtles who fall victim to disasters like the Gulf oil spill. That says a lot about its grease-cutting properties.

For your garage floor, wet the oiled area just a bit, squirt on some Dawn and use a stiff brush to work the soap into the floor. Rinse with water.

Truth be told, there are dozens of other tricks people try to remove oil from concrete. Here are a few:

  • Some people swear by spraying WD-40 lubricant on the floor and then wiping it up.
  • Many commercial chemical products are available.
  • Oven cleaner is said to work. And this does make sense as grease is what oven cleaners clean best.
  • Carburetor cleaner is a product said to remove stains after the oil is lifted.
  • Carpet cleaner and hot water work for some.

By Kathy Price-Robinson

If you are interested in Sledge Concrete Coatings, Please Click Here!

Frequent Questions that Solar City has Been Asked

• Date Posted: April 25th, 2012      • Posted Under: Blog, Category, Green, Remodeling, Roofing, Solar
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How Solar Works

Will solar work on my home or business?


We hope so! The two biggest factors are the amount sunlight you get throughout the day and the amount of open roof space. We can give you a quick assessment by looking at satellite photos of your property. If your roof looks good, we will schedule a follow-up free solar consultation where one of our experts will evaluate if a solar power system will fit with your architecture and meet your energy needs. They will provide a detailed proposal including recommended system location, size, pricing and financial analysis.

Will I need to adapt my home or business to run on solar power?


No. Solar power electric systems fit seamlessly into your building. You won’t have to buy new appliances or change your electrical outlets; everything will work just the same as it did before. You should experience no practical changes except for one: you won’t have to pay a big utility bill every month!

No big utility bill? Really?


Really! When you begin to generate your own solar power, your utility bill will drop significantly. How much you can save will depend on the size of your solar system and your electricity usage. When your solar system generates more electricity than your building can immediately use, your excess power flows back to the utility grid and your meter literally spins backward! Learn more about utility billing and “net metering”.

Should I wait for new technology?


No, now is really the best time to invest in a solar system with the combination of technology and cost. The underling benefit of turning sunlight into electricity will not change for as long as we still use electricity to power our homes and businesses! SolarCity offers multiple solar panel solutions to our customers. We continue to evaluate new technology and will offer it to our customers once it becomes a reliable and cost effective option.

The other key component in evaluating the right time to install solar is government incentives. Federal and state governments are currently offering generous rebates and incentives to go solar; however, these programs are designed to reward early adopters of solar power, so the rebate amount per project continues to drop as the allotted funds are consumed.

What size solar system do I need?


Every home and business is different, so the size of your system will depend on your energy needs, roof space and solar goals. Residential solar systems are typically 3-10 kW and commercial systems range from 50–500 kW for a medium sized business. SolarCity will custom design a system to meet your specific needs and offset as much of your utility bill as you desire.

What maintenance is required?


Your solar energy system requires very little maintenance, largely because it has no moving parts. All your system requires is minimal shade, occasional cleaning and inspection. We suggest that you keep an eye on trees that may shade your system and keep them trimmed. Using SolarGuard—the SolarCity service team proactively monitors your system output to ensure that your system is performing as it should. In the unlikely event that your system underperforms, SolarCity will alert you and help to remedy the situation. With our SolarLease, and SolarPPA energy plans, maintenance and warranty repairs are included as part of our service to you.

How reliable is solar power?


Solar systems built today are very reliable. They have proven to be dependable sources of energy for large office buildings, mass retailers and governmental agencies, supplying megawatts of energy. Some of the largest companies in the world have buildings powered by solar energy, including eBay, WalMart, and the US Air Force. SolarCity has incredible high quality standards and only use best of breed equipment—we build our systems to last.

Do I need a battery back-up system?


No. Battery systems are expensive and are generally not recommended. All SolarCity solar systems are connected to the utility grid so you always have access to a power source. You never have to worry about “running out” of power.

What happens at night, or when the weather turns cloudy?


Since the amount of power your solar system generates is a direct result of sunlight, it will produce slightly less energy when the weather is cloudy. Your system will not produce any energy at night. Your SolarCity power system will be interconnected to your local utility grid, so that you can automatically begin to draw power from the grid whenever you need it. You won’t experience any power interruptions—the switch between solar system power and the utility grid happens seamlessly, with no effort on your part.

What happens if there is a black out?


In the event of a black out, your system is designed to turn off. This is a safety requirement by the utility company so that their technicians can safely repair down electrical lines.

How long will a solar system last?


Most of the parts on your solar system, such as solar panels, carry manufacturer’s warranties of 25 years; other parts, such as inverters, carry 10-year warranties. In addition, SolarCity offers 20 years of included monitoring and repair service with our SolarLease or SolarPPA options. Most solar systems may far outlast their warranties; many of the first solar systems installed more than 30 years ago are still going strong.

Installation Process

Is it difficult to switch over to solar power?


No. SolarCity makes it easy to switch to solar. We will get your solar system up and running as quickly and smoothly as possible so that you can start saving money and using clean energy. You won’t experience any changes inside your home or business.

How long will it take to get my new solar system up and running?


A typical residential roof installation takes about 3-5 days and a typical commercial installation takes about 1-3 weeks from the day we begin the installation. The length of time depends on the complexity of your roof and the number of panels that will be installed. The estimated installation time will be included in the design proposal presented to you by SolarCity.

What kind of permits are needed to meet local building codes?


As part of our comprehensive service, SolarCity will obtain all building permits and design your system to meet your local building codes. We’ll arrange the electrical, building and utility inspections and be on-site to make sure that everything is up to code. SolarCity takes care of your project every step of the way.

What if my roof needs repairs after I’ve installed solar panels?


Ideally, you should install solar panels on a roof that is in good condition. When a SolarCity site auditor comes out to inspect your building prior to installation, he or she will check to make sure that your roof is suitable for a solar installation. Once the solar panels are installed, they actually help to protect your roof from the elements. If you should ever need to make repairs on the roof, the solar panels will need to be removed and re-installed. SolarCity offers this service for a reasonable fee.

Financial Benefits of Solar Power

Does a solar system make financial sense for me?


Yes! Solar is cleaner and less expensive than power from the utility company. Solar is a smart financial investment because you will save money on electrical costs for years to come and increase your home value. Our customers who purchase their system typically see a strong Return on Investment (ROI) and expect to recoup their solar system investment within 5-10 years. Depending on the rebates and incentives offered in your area, you may be able to pay back your system even sooner.

With SolarCity’s SolarLease, and SolarPPA you do not have a big upfront payment and can save your money for other opportunities. And you lock in a lower monthly rate for your energy usage.

You can get a quick, high level estimate by speaking with one of our knowledgeable energy consultants.

Will the government really give rebates and tax incentives for going solar?


The incentives and rebates are both real and substantial. Local, state and federal governments offer tremendous financial incentives for businesses to choose solar. A combination of incentives and tax credits can cover up to 50% of the total cost! The most important thing to keep in mind about these governmental programs is this—they won’t last forever. Now is the time to take advantage of the federal and state mandate to switch to renewable sources of energy; once the adoption rate reaches a certain level, the incentives will disappear.

Is now a good time to buy a solar system?


Now is the perfect time to switch to solar. Federal, state and local governments are offering generous rebates and incentives to go solar; however, these programs are designed to reward early adopters of solar power, so the rebate amount per project continues to drop as the allotted funds are consumed. In additions, solar can dramatically reduce your utility bill and will protect you from rising utility rates for years to come.

Do you have financing available?


Yes. SolarCity offers SolarLease and SolarPPA financing for homeowners and a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for business owners. Now you can start experiencing the benefits of solar power immediately — and lock in a lower cost of energy for decades. We install and maintain the equipment on your site and you get the power it produces. You just pay a low monthly payment.

SolarLease

What are my options at the end of the SolarLease?


SolarLease is a very flexible way to go solar. When your SolarLease ends, you have several good options to choose from:
  • You can upgrade to a new system with the latest solar technology under a new SolarLease.
  • You can also extend your existing SolarLease in five year increments.
  • You can ask SolarCity to remove your system for free.

What if I move to a new home before the end of the SolarLease?


You can pass on the solar system to the new owners in two ways. The great thing about either of these options is that solar homes typically have a higher resale value, because their lowered electricity costs.
  • You can transfer the SolarLease to the new homeowners if they qualify with excellent credit.
  • You can also prepay the lease and include it in the asking price.

Can I decide to buy the system later?


No, but you can renew your lease in five year increments.

A SolarLease includes full service. What is included?


  • Your free SolarGuard monitoring service will alert you and SolarCity of any changes in performance. If we see a problem, we will give you call to help diagnose the problem and dispatch a repair team to fix it if needed.
  • Every SolarLease and SolarPPA includes an extended warranty on workmanship and hardware through the end of your lease. SolarCity will repair or replace broken components at no cost to you. For instance, your inverter will likely need to be replaced around year 12.
  • SolarLease and SolarPPA performance is guaranteed. If your system doesn’t produce as much electricity as we promise we will pay you back.

How does the Performance Guarantee work?


SolarCity offers a performance guarantee that your system will produce as much electricity as we promise, or we will pay you back. This takes into account normal weather variation and solar panel performance over time. The amount of electricity we promise to deliver is stated in your contract. We track your system performance through our SolarGuard monitoring service.

SolarPPA for Homeowners

What are my options at the end of the SolarPPA contract?


A SolarPPA is a very flexible way to go solar. When your contract ends, you have several good options to choose from:
  • You can purchase your system.
  • You can ask SolarCity to remove your system for free.
  • You can upgrade to a new system with the latest solar technology under a new contract.
  • You can extend your agreement in five year increments.

Can I decide to buy the system later?


Yes, you can purchase your system anytime after year five. The buyout price is specified in your contract.

How does the performance guarantee work?


SolarCity offers a performance guarantee that your system will produce as much electricity as we promise, or we will pay you back annually.

  • The amount of electricity we promise to deliver is specified in your contract, so there are no surprises.
  • If your system underperforms, SolarCity will credit you per kWh shortfall at the end of each year.
  • Our production estimates take into account normal weather variation and solar panel performance over time.
  • We track your system performance through our SolarGuard online monitoring service, which you also have access to 24/7.

What if I move to a new home before the end of the contract?


You also have several options if you move before the end of the contract:
  • You can transfer it to the new owners at no cost.
  • You can buy out the system and include it in the value of the house—solar homes typically have a higher resale value.
  • You can pay to have it moved to your new home. See the contract for certain restrictions.

If You Are Interested in Solar City, Please Click Here to Contact Them!

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