Sometimes, life events like home renovations or a new roof installation necessitate the temporary removal of your solar panels. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to expect if you're in such a situation:
The Process:
Service Request:
Initiate: Start by submitting a service request on the Better Earth website. This allows us to provide you with a detailed quote for both uninstallation and reinstallation.
Uninstallation:
Procedure: Our team will carefully remove your solar panels and related equipment.
Storage: Panels will be stored on your property until your home is ready for reinstallation, ensuring they remain secure and accessible.
Reinstallation:
Timing: Once your property is prepared (new roof installed or renovations completed), we'll schedule the reinstallation.
Cost: You'll receive costs for both removal and reinstallation based on your system's size and complexity.
Important Considerations:
Production Guarantee:
Pause in Production: Our production guarantee does not cover the period when your panels are off your roof. This means you won't receive production credits during this time.
Utility Bills and Financing:
Billing During Downtime: Better Earth does not compensate for utility bills accrued while your system is not operational.
Financing Options: Depending on your finance agreement, you might be able to pause billing. Contact your finance company directly to discuss possible arrangements.
Warranty:
Continuity: Our warranties on your solar panels and installation do not reset upon reinstallation; the original terms continue.
Additional Details:
Inspection and Permits:
Similar to the initial installation, reinstallation might require new permits and inspections to ensure compliance with local codes. Please be aware that additional costs may be added to your quote if new permits are needed.
System Performance:
After Reinstallation: We'll perform checks to ensure your system is back to optimal performance. However, any degradation from the original installation will not be covered under a new warranty period.
Cost Factors:
Costs can vary based on the size of your system, the complexity of the reinstallation, and any additional work your home's new state might require.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I start the process of removing my solar panels?
A: Visit our website and submit a service request for a quote on uninstallation and reinstallation.
Q: Can Better Earth uninstall and reinstall a system installed from another provider?
A: If your solar system was installed by another provider:
If the Original Provider is Still in Business: You should contact them to uninstall and reinstall their system, as they would typically handle their warranty and service.
If the Original Provider is No Longer in Business: Better Earth might be able to uninstall and reinstall the system, but any work done by us on a system not originally installed by Better Earth would not be covered by our warranty.
Q: Where will my panels be stored during the removal process?
A: Your panels will be stored safely on your property until reinstallation, reducing the risk of damage or loss.
Q: What happens to my solar production guarantee when panels are off my roof?
A: The production guarantee is paused during the time your panels are not installed. You will not receive credits for this period.
Q: Can I pause my financing payments while my panels are down?
A: This depends on your finance agreement. You need to contact your finance company to inquire about pausing or adjusting payments.
Q: Will uninstalling and reinstalling my solar panels affect my warranty?
A: No, the existing warranties on your panels and installation will continue as before; they do not reset.
Q: What if I find damage to my panels or equipment after reinstallation?
A: We conduct thorough checks post-reinstallation. If damage is found that wasn't present before removal, we address it. However, normal wear or pre-existing conditions are not covered under new warranty terms.
Q: How long does the removal and reinstallation process take?
A: The timeline can vary based on project complexity, but typically, removal might take a day, and reinstallation could take another day or more, excluding the time panels are off the roof.
Q: Can I opt for Better Earth to store my panels elsewhere?
A: Currently, our policy is to store panels at the customer's property for security and ease of reinstallation. If this presents an issue, discuss alternatives with your project manager.
Q: Will I need new permits for the reinstallation?
A: Likely, yes. We'll handle the permit process, but there might be fees associated with new permits.
Q: What if I decide not to reinstall the panels after removal?
A: Discuss this with Better Earth. There might be disposal or storage considerations, and you'll need to consider the financial implications of your decision.
Conclusion
Understanding the implications of removing and reinstalling your solar panels is crucial for homeowners planning significant home projects. At Better Earth, we aim to make this process as straightforward as possible while keeping you informed of all relevant details. If you're considering or need to proceed with such actions, our team is ready to assist, ensuring your solar investment continues to serve you well. Remember, communication with both Better Earth and your finance provider is key to managing this transition smoothly.