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Frequently
Asked
Questions

  • How long does it take to install solar panels?
    ✅ The average solar installation takes 1–3 days, but the entire process from contract to activation may take 4–8 weeks including permitting, utility approvals, and inspections.
  • Will I need to cut down trees or modify my property for solar?
    ✅ Not necessarily. We assess shading and system performance—minor trimming may be recommended, but tree removal is rarely required.
  • Do I need to replace my roof before going solar?
    ✅ If your roof has less than 10–15 years of life left, a replacement may be wise. SunKar offers roofing services if needed.
  • How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
    ✅ It depends on your monthly energy use and location. Most homes need 15–30 panels. We’ll customize a system just for you.
  • How many panels would I need to charge an electric vehicle?
    ✅ Charging an EV may require 2–4 additional panels depending on driving habits and vehicle type.
  • How much does it cost to install an EV charger at home?
    ✅ Basic installations range from $800 to $2,000. We can bundle EV charger installations with your solar project.
  • What is the warranty for a solar system?
    ✅ Our systems come with a 25-year panel warranty, a 10–25 year inverter warranty, and SunKar's workmanship guarantee.
  • How does battery storage work with solar panels?
    ✅ Batteries store excess energy your system produces during the day. You can use it at night, during outages, or during peak hours.
  • How long do solar batteries last?
    ✅ Most solar batteries last 10–15 years, depending on usage and brand. We install top-tier brands with performance warranties.
  • What happens if there’s a power outage—will solar still work?
    ✅ Without a battery, grid-tied systems shut down for safety. With battery storage, your essential appliances stay powered.
  • Can I monitor my solar system’s production in real time?
    ✅ Yes. All SunKar systems come with a monitoring app where you can track energy production, usage, and savings.
  • Are solar panels reliable during cloudy days or bad weather?
    ✅ Solar panels still generate power in cloudy conditions—just at reduced efficiency. California’s climate ensures great year-round performance.
  • How much can I save by going solar?
    ✅ Savings vary based on system size and energy use, but most homeowners save $20,000–$60,000 over 25 years.
  • How much does a solar system cost in California?
    ✅ A typical residential system ranges from $12,000–$30,000 before incentives. We provide free custom quotes.
  • Are solar panels free?
    ✅ Some companies advertise "free" panels through leases or PPAs. At SunKar, we offer affordable ownership options with no hidden costs.
  • What are my financing options for solar?
    ✅ We offer zero-down solar loans, leases, and PPAs to suit your needs and goals.
  • Can I get solar with zero-down financing or leasing?
    ✅ Yes. We offer flexible zero-down options to help you go solar without upfront investment.
  • Can I break up with my utility company permanently?
    ✅ With solar + battery, you can reduce dependence significantly, but full independence may require going off-grid.
  • What rebates or tax credits are available in California?
    You may qualify for the 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC), California SGIP, and local utility rebates.
  • Do I qualify for the federal solar tax credit (ITC)?
    ✅ If you own your system and have tax liability, yes! It currently covers 30% of system costs.
  • What is a PPA (Power Purchase Agreement)?
    ✅ A PPA lets you pay for solar energy monthly without owning the system. It’s a lease-like option.
  • What happens at the end of a solar PPA term?
    ✅ You may choose to renew, buy out the system, or remove it.
  • What are SRECs and how do they work in California?
    ✅ SRECs are tradable credits for solar production. California does not currently have a robust SREC market.
  • Will my utility company pay me for unused solar energy?
    ✅ Under net metering, you receive bill credits for excess energy sent to the grid.
  • What is net metering and how does it benefit me?
    ✅ Net metering lets you earn credits for the solar power you export to the grid—lowering your utility bill.
  • How do I know if my house qualifies for solar?
    ✅ If you have roof space, sunlight, and a utility bill, chances are good! We’ll assess it in a free consultation.
  • Do solar panels require ongoing maintenance?
    ✅ Solar systems are low-maintenance. Occasional cleaning and monitoring are usually enough.
  • How does solar impact my home’s value?
    ✅ Studies show homes with solar sell faster and for more, especially with owned systems.
  • What permits are required to install solar in California?
    ✅ We handle all permits and approvals, including city building permits and utility interconnection.
  • How does solar work during winter vs summer?
    ✅ Systems produce more in summer but still work year-round. Net metering balances seasonal production.
  • What is the difference between peak and off-peak electricity hours?
    ✅ Peak hours cost more. Solar + battery helps avoid peak rates by using stored power.
  • How long do roofs typically last?
    ✅ Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20–30 years. Tile and metal can last even longer.
  • Can I get a new roof and solar at the same time?
    ✅ Yes! SunKar offers bundled roof + solar packages to save time and money.
  • How can I tell if I need a new roof?
    ✅ Missing shingles, leaks, and sagging are signs. We’ll inspect your roof before installation.
  • How much does a new roof cost?
    ✅ Costs vary by size and material. We’ll include a roofing quote during your solar proposal if needed.
  • What’s the difference between architectural and 3-tab shingles?
    ✅ Architectural shingles are thicker, more durable, and more attractive than basic 3-tab options.
  • Is there a cost to participate in this program?
    ✅ No, it’s free to join! We partner with nonprofits and organizations at no cost.
  • Is there a limit to how much our nonprofit can raise?
    ✅ No limit! The more referrals, the more your organization can earn.
  • Does the money our organization earns go into a specific fund?
    ✅ That’s up to you! We can allocate funds however best fits your mission.
  • What is the onboarding process for new partners?
    ✅ Simple and quick—we’ll schedule a call, align on goals, and provide referral materials.
  • Will you ask for our mailing list?
    ✅ Only if you choose to share it. We respect your privacy and work collaboratively.
  • How do I ensure my organization benefits from referrals?
    ✅ We provide unique tracking codes, updates, and payouts for every successful referral.
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