Home Efficiency FAQ
Common questions about solar panels, heat pumps, and energy-saving upgrades.
Solar Panels
How much can I save with solar panels?
Average homeowners save $1,000-$3,000 per year with solar panels. Savings depend on your location, electricity rates, roof size, and sun exposure. A typical 2,000 sq ft home in California can save around $2,400 annually.
What is the payback period for solar panels?
The average payback period for residential solar panels is 4-8 years in the US. With the 30% federal tax credit (ITC), payback can be as fast as 3-5 years in sunny states like California, Arizona, or Texas.
Do solar panels work in cloudy weather?
Yes, solar panels work in cloudy weather but at reduced efficiency (10-25% of normal output). Germany, which has cloudy weather, is one of the world's leaders in solar adoption, proving the viability in less sunny climates.
How long do solar panels last?
Most solar panels come with 25-30 year warranties and can last 30-40 years or more. Panel efficiency degrades about 0.5% per year, so after 25 years, panels still produce around 87% of their original output.
Heat Pumps
Are heat pumps worth it in cold climates?
Modern cold-climate heat pumps work efficiently down to -15°F (-26°C). They can reduce heating costs by 50-70% compared to electric resistance heating. In moderate climates, savings are even higher.
How much does a heat pump cost to install?
Heat pump installation typically costs $3,500-$15,000 depending on system size and type. Air-source heat pumps are cheaper ($3,500-$7,500), while ground-source (geothermal) systems cost $10,000-$30,000 but offer higher efficiency.
What is the ROI on a heat pump?
Heat pumps typically offer 15-25% ROI annually. Payback periods range from 5-10 years depending on your current heating system. Switching from oil or propane heating offers the fastest payback.
Smart Thermostats
How much do smart thermostats save?
Smart thermostats save 10-15% on heating and cooling costs, averaging $100-$200 per year. The Nest Learning Thermostat and Ecobee are popular choices with proven energy savings.
Are smart thermostats worth it?
Yes, with costs of $150-$300 and annual savings of $100-$200, smart thermostats typically pay for themselves within 1-2 years. They also offer convenience features like remote control and learning algorithms.
Home Insulation
What is the best insulation for energy savings?
Spray foam insulation offers the highest R-value (energy efficiency) but is most expensive. Fiberglass and cellulose are cost-effective alternatives. Attic insulation provides the fastest payback, typically 1-3 years.
How much can insulation reduce energy bills?
Proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by 15-30%. The Department of Energy estimates homeowners can save an average of 15% on energy bills by air sealing and adding insulation to attics, floors, and crawl spaces.
Government Incentives
What is the federal solar tax credit?
The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offers a 30% tax credit on solar panel installation costs through 2032. For a $20,000 system, you receive a $6,000 tax credit. The credit steps down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Are there incentives for heat pumps?
Yes, the Inflation Reduction Act offers up to $2,000 in tax credits for heat pump installation. Many states offer additional rebates of $1,000-$5,000. Check with your utility company for local incentives.