Frequently Asked Questions

• All of our systems have monitoring included in the proposal.  We have found that most of our competitors do not include this and charge as much as a $1,000 extra.  With Palomar Solar we will install your enPhase envoy monitoring system at no extra charge.  We want you to have access to your production.  It is also extremely helpful to us so that we can ensure every part of your system is producing as promised. This is the only system that will allow you to monitor each panels ac output.
• We suggest that you ask to see the systems a company monitors before purchasing solar.  They should be able to easily show you the system being monitored.  If not we suggest finding another contractor.  Especially if you are considering enPhase.  This will give you an idea of how many enPhase systems they have really installed and how long they have been installed for.  Palomar Solar is happy to provide you access to the systems we are monitoring.
• Do not assume that if you purchase an Enphase system that you will receive per panel monitoring.  Most companies only offer the system output monitoring not the the per solar panel monitoring.  That allows you to hold them accountable at the individual solar panel level.

• All of Palomar Solar’s proposals include sales tax.  This is important to consider when comparing proposals especially lease’s.  We have found that most lease’s do not show tax on their proposals.  Be sure to ask or you could be in for a big surprise.  

• When presenting our system, we will always give you the estimated kilowatt hours of AC power that your system will produce over the course of the year.  Many companies look to make their system appear larger than it is by quoting the theoretical DC watts produced by the panels, when in fact the end result of your actual AC watts (the power coming out of your outlet) will be as much as 20% less than the quoted DC wattage.
• For instance, a standard 36 panel system will be approximately 8.28 kilowatts when measured in DC, but in reality, it is only 7.09 kilowatts when measured in AC.

• In most cases, NO. However, it will be determined based on the size of the solar system that will best fit your needs. Your Palomar Solar and Roofing consultant will be able to let you know and include it in their proposal.  
• If it is determined necessary, we make it as painless as possible.  We will coordinate with your utility company so the actual downtime of your electrical is mostly measured in minutes, not days.

We prefer to use the south facing roof if available.  However, there are cases when shade, roof space, and other conditions may limit or obstruct the south facing side, then we may need to use a west facing roof or even the east. Please note that for each azimuth, you will need to either use a separate inverter or ask about the new enPhase micro-inverter technology, which is specific for these types of applications. We believe to be the best solution currently available.

Yes, we will prepare our plans showing the most advantageous design for your desired system; however, before we submit them to your municipality, we will get your approval on the design.  This is just another way we set ourselves apart from the competition.

Unfortunately there are no longer many utilities still offering rebates.  In Southern California both SDGE and SCE no longer have rebate funds available, don’t fall for the salesman who claims they are still paying the rebate.

Unfortunately, we are unable to assist in your tax returns, as always we recommend you consult a tax professional to guide you in your specific situation.