Things to Consider Before Installing Rooftop Solar Panels
Written by the Intelligent Design Team
46+ years of experience | NATE-certified technicians | BBB A+ rated
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Installing solar panels is a significant investment that can provide decades of clean energy and savings. Before committing, here are the essential factors Tucson homeowners should evaluate.
1. Roof Condition and Age
Your roof must be in good condition before solar installation.
Key Questions:
- How old is your roof? If it needs replacement within 10 years, do that first
- What material? Composition shingles, tile, and metal all work well
- Any damage? Leaks, damaged shingles, or structural issues must be addressed
Why It Matters
Removing and reinstalling solar panels for roof repairs is expensive ($1,500-3,000+). A roof inspection before solar installation prevents future headaches.
2. Roof Orientation and Shading
Not all roofs are equally suited for solar.
Ideal Conditions:
- South-facing sections: Maximum sun exposure
- Southwest or west-facing: Good for afternoon peak production
- Minimal shading: Trees, chimneys, or neighboring buildings reduce output
- Appropriate pitch: 15-40 degrees is ideal
Shading Impact
Even partial shading significantly reduces output. Modern microinverters and optimizers minimize this impact, but heavily shaded roofs may not be good candidates.
3. Energy Usage Patterns
Understanding your electricity consumption helps size your system correctly.
Review Your Bills
- Look at 12 months of electricity bills
- Note seasonal variations (summer AC use)
- Calculate average and peak monthly usage
Right-Sizing the System
- Oversized systems waste money
- Undersized systems miss savings opportunities
- Consider future changes (electric vehicle, pool, home additions)
4. Financial Considerations
Upfront Costs
- Average residential system: $15,000-30,000 before incentives
- After 30% federal tax credit: $10,500-21,000
- Payment options: Cash, solar loan, lease/PPA
Return on Investment
- Typical payback: 5-8 years in Arizona
- System lifespan: 25-30 years
- Net savings over lifetime: $30,000-75,000+
Incentives Available
- Federal Investment Tax Credit: 30% of installation cost
- Arizona incentives: May include additional credits
- Utility rebates: Check with your power company
5. Ownership vs. Leasing
Buying (Cash or Loan)
Pros:
- Maximum long-term savings
- You own the equipment
- Increases home value
- All incentives go to you
Cons:
- Higher upfront investment
- You're responsible for maintenance
Leasing or PPA
Pros:
- Little to no upfront cost
- Maintenance typically included
Cons:
- Less lifetime savings
- Leasing company gets incentives
- May complicate home sale
- Locked into long-term contract
6. Net Metering Policies
Net metering determines how you're credited for excess solar electricity.
How It Works
- Excess solar power flows to the grid
- Utility credits your account
- Credits offset electricity you use at night/cloudy days
Arizona Considerations
- Policies vary by utility
- Credit rates may differ from retail rates
- Time-of-use plans affect value
- Demand charges may apply for some customers
7. Equipment Quality
Not all solar equipment is equal.
Panels
- Tier 1 manufacturers: LG, Panasonic, SunPower, REC, etc.
- Efficiency ratings: 19-22% is standard for quality panels
- Warranties: 25 years is standard
Inverters
- String inverters: Cost-effective, good for unshaded roofs
- Microinverters: Better for shading, individual panel monitoring
- Optimizers: Balance of cost and per-panel optimization
Mounting Hardware
- Quality racking prevents leaks and damage
- Proper installation is critical
8. Installer Selection
Choosing the right installer is as important as choosing equipment.
What to Look For:
- Licensed, bonded, and insured
- NABCEP certification preferred
- Strong local reputation
- Transparent pricing
- Quality workmanship warranty
- Responsive customer service
Red Flags:
- High-pressure sales tactics
- Prices significantly below market
- Reluctance to provide references
- Unclear warranty terms
9. Permits and HOA Approval
Permits Required
- Building permit
- Electrical permit
- Utility interconnection agreement
Your installer should handle all permitting.
HOA Considerations
- Arizona law protects solar rights, but HOAs can set reasonable guidelines
- Submit plans for approval before installation
- Some restrictions on placement may apply
10. Maintenance Requirements
Solar panels require minimal but regular maintenance.
Typical Needs:
- Annual visual inspection
- Occasional cleaning (rain usually suffices in Tucson)
- Monitoring system performance
- Inverter replacement (once in system lifetime)
Warranties Cover:
- Panel defects (25 years typical)
- Inverter (12-25 years depending on type)
- Workmanship (varies by installer)
Making Your Decision
Solar is right for most Tucson homeowners who:
- Own their home
- Have a suitable roof
- Pay significant electricity bills
- Plan to stay for 5+ years
Get a Professional Assessment
Intelligent Design provides free, no-pressure solar consultations. We'll evaluate your roof, energy usage, and financial goals to determine if solar is right for you.
Call (520) 333-2665 to schedule your assessment. As a combined HVAC and solar company, we can optimize both your cooling and solar systems for maximum savings.
