Frequently Asked Questions

Solar panels contain photovoltaic (PV) cells that convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then converts this DC power into alternating current (AC) electricity that your home can use. Any excess energy can be stored in batteries or sent back to the grid.

Most Waco homeowners save 30-40% on their electricity bills, which translates to $800-$1,500 per year on average. Over 25 years, that's $20,000-$37,500 in savings! Your actual savings depend on your energy usage, system size, and local utility rates.

Yes! Solar panels still generate electricity on cloudy days, though at reduced capacity (typically 10-25% of full output). Modern panels are designed to capture diffused sunlight. Plus, Texas gets plenty of sunshine year-round, so your system will still produce significant energy overall.

Physical installation typically takes 1-3 days for residential systems, depending on size and complexity. The entire process from signing to turning on your system takes 4-8 weeks, which includes design, permitting, equipment delivery, installation, and utility approval.

No! When installed properly by professionals like Solar Waco, solar panels actually protect your roof from weather damage. We use specialized mounting systems that seal penetration points and distribute weight evenly. We also inspect your roof before installation to ensure it's in good condition.

Not necessarily. If your roof is in good condition with at least 10-15 years of life remaining, it's suitable for solar. During our free assessment, we'll evaluate your roof's condition and let you know if any repairs are needed before installation.

The average residential solar system in Texas costs $15,000-$30,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit, that drops to $10,500-$21,000. Your exact cost depends on system size, equipment quality, and installation complexity. We provide transparent, itemized quotes with no hidden fees.

We offer multiple financing solutions including zero-down solar loans with terms from 5-25 years, home equity loans, and cash purchases. Many customers find that their monthly loan payment is less than their previous electricity bill, so they start saving immediately.

The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of your solar system cost from your federal taxes. For a $20,000 system, that's $6,000 in tax savings! This credit is available through 2032 and applies to both the equipment and installation costs.