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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know!

Curious about our homes, smart features or net-zero energy? Look below to see if your question has been answered. If not feel free to contact us for a personal response.

Does my house have to face south?

South is the most efficient direction, but solar panels that face southeast or southwest still generate a very high percentage of available energy. Other factors to consider are shade from trees or other building structures, the number of solar panels and the angle of your roof.

Do solar panels store energy from the sun?

No. The energy from your system is used as it is produced. Any excess energy generated can be stored in a battery bank or sent back to the utility grid, resulting in credit that can be used when your energy production cannot meet your demand.

If the regional power goes out, will my solar system continue to produce electricity?

No…. you will not have any electricity. If you have an on-the-grid PV system and there is a power outage, your system is designed to shut down automatically to protect utility workers from being electrocuted. It is possible to store power with batteries but the cost and the maintenance makes energy storage prohibitive.

What is the typical life span of a PV solar panel system?

Most solar modules come with a 25 year guarantee for optimum power output. They are expected to last twice that producing a minimum of 80% of expected output.

What if I sell my house?

Since your system was designed specifically for that house, moving it to a new location would not be feasible. However, your PV solar system will considerable enhance the resale value of your home. According to the U.S. Department of House and Urban Development, a “net zero” home (about 2,000 sq. ft.) will increase the resale value approximately $35,000.

What about those cloudy or foggy days?

Your PV system will continue to produce electricity but at a reduced rate. The YESS (your energy saving system) control panel will illustrate and log exactly the amount of energy being produced and being used. This information can be used by the homeowner to maximize the savings.

What about snow and ice?

Although snow or ice do not harm the panels, they may reduce the energy production. The suns radiation will cause the panels to warm0up and the snow or ice quickly melts. As an added bonus, once the snow is melted, the reflection of the snow on the ground and the rest of the roof will actually increase the energy production of your system

Are solar modules fragile?

No…Although most modules are made of tempered glass, they are very strong. They must pass severe wind and hail tests and are regularly installed in areas prone to hurricanes as well as Arctic and Antarctica conditions.

What kind of financial incentives are available for a PV solar system?

Financial assistance programs are many and complex depending upon in what state, county or municipality you live. The Federal Government offers a 30% rebate on your costs. Other incentives may include rebates from renewable energy resource programs and local rebates for sales taxes. As energy prices increase, your value increases. We strongly advise each homeowner to investigate their individual incentive availability. Go to dsire.org for more information relating to regional incentive programs.

Can a solar energy package really make my meter run backwards?

Finding a building site: Finding a property that suits all your needs and is affordable can be very challenging. There are so many factors to consider. JMB Homes can build anywhere a home can be built. However, there are certain variables that can provide you more solar energy advantages. We can assist you in evaluating any given site and custom engineer your new home to get the optimum energy savings.

Does the house come furnished?

A JMB Homes representative will be happy to assist you in picking from an endless list of products, materials, colors and upgrades that are available.

How long does building and setup take?

During the building process, your home and materials are kept dry and in a controlled environment. Your home can be under construction while you prepare the site; thus saving valuable time. Once the home is delivered to your site, it can be assembled and “move-in” ready in approximately 30 days.

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