Frequently Asked Questions

Deciding to go solar is a big decision and we want to make sure that you have all the information to help you confidently decide. These are some questions that past customers have wondered, but by no means are they all the questions you may have. Please contact us directly to discuss anything else you’re curious or concerned about.

1. Does PacificSky outsource any part of the solar process?

No. PacificSky has solar consultants, engineers, contractors, and customer service representatives all under one roof. It’s a big part of what makes going solar with PacificSky such a smooth, easy process.

2. How many installs has PacificSky done?

We’ve installed solar on well over 1,000 homes in the LA area in the last 20 years. We bring that experience to every project we do.

3. Does PacificSky offer $0 down leasing and financing options?

Yes. PacificSky offers a variety of flexible leasing and financing options, including $0 down. We’re happy to consult on which option is best for you.

4. How long does it take to install a PV system?

It generally takes 2-3 days for the average rooftop system to be installed. From start to finish, the entire process takes 6-8 weeks from the time you get an evaluation to the time your solar power is turned on. Our experts will guide you through the entire process, making it as smooth as possible.

5. Will my property taxes increase?

Nope! In fact, California currently has a tax exclusion for solar energy systems.

6. How long will my system last?

We use only world-class products to insure the best quality panels. All our products are backed with a 25 year warranty, though panels routinely outlast the warranty.

7. What if the system produces more energy than expected?

The amount of electricity produced by your photovoltaic (PV) system is tracked by your electric meter. For systems that are tied to the electrical grid, when PV panels produce more electricity than your house is currently using, the meter spins backward. This excess electricity will be credited to you on your monthly electric bill at the rate you would have been charged to use it.

8. How do I know if the panels are working?

PacificSky sets you up with a monitoring system you can track. We also have access to the monitoring system and are here to help with any questions you have about how your system is working.

9. What are the environmental benefits of going solar?

Solar energy creates electricity and heat and avoids pollution from conventional coal plants and nuclear plants. Using national average emission factors, every megawatt-hour of electricity generated through a solar system avoids more than 1,300 lbs of carbon dioxide (CO2), more than 5 lbs of sulfur dioxide (SO2), and almost 2 lbs of nitrogen oxide (NOx), and it also avoids producing radioactive nuclear wastes.

10. Where are PacificSky Solar energy services available?

We currently service throughout Southern California but are growing every day.

11. Will my solar system require maintenance?

Our solar systems require very little maintenance. The panels are typically cleaned when it rains (assuring no dirt or particles block solar access to the sun), and some owners additionally hose them down once a year.

12. How many solar panels will I need for my house?

The amount of solar panels needed is determined by a number of factors: capacity of your roof or ground area, current utility bill amount, and the percentage of bill desired to be covered. During our SmartSolar Consultation, our engineering team will give you all the options and work hard to figure out what system will produce the maximum possible.

13. How does solar power work at night?

Your solar system is working very hard during daylight to produce electricity. When your system is not generating energy, the excess of power that was created during the day offsets the cost of electricity used at night. The result is a lower electricity bill (and a much happier you).

14. What rebates and incentives are available for solar systems?

Currently, the federal government allows you to deduct 30% of your solar power system costs off your federal taxes through an investment tax credit (ITC). Read more about it here: https://www.seia.org/policy/finance-tax/solar-investment-tax-credit

Depending on the area that you live in, the state rebate will differ. Please call us for more info regarding your specific city and we will be glad to give you up-to-date details about the state and federal rebates.

15. How much energy can my rooftop produce?

Our average customer generates 80% -100% of their annual electrical bill. While we hate to give you the “it depends” answer, it really does depend on the size of the system and the amount of sunlight the rooftop receives. To understand your exact situation, contact us to learn more.

16. Is my house a good candidate for solar power?

South-facing roofs receive the most sunlight, making them ideal candidates. However, we have often been able to put a solar install where other solar installers thought it was impossible. In our SmartSolar Consultation, our experts will analyze your rooftop and create a complex shading report to determine if solar is feasible for your roof. Our experts can also advise how to trim surrounding trees to assure maximum solar access. Lastly, if rooftop panels aren’t practical for your property, we can work with you to design a ground mount to maximize sunlight.