Answers...

Why would a 20-year plumbing background make a difference to my solar installation?

Currently, not every installation company has a plumber on their staff, which is necessary when working with potable (drinking) water and pulling a permit. This, in turn, drives up their installation costs as a plumber oftentimes needs to be hired. 20 years experience in the plumbing industry offers our customers the advantage of skill and knowledge diversity, which increases the quality of your installation.

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What is a Green Building and Renewable Energy Technician and what do they do?

A Renewable Energy Technician is a new designation given to Mechanical Engineering Technicians that specialize in most aspects of green building and renewable energy. Renewable Energy Technicians provide expertise in design, installation, assessment, and evaluation of Renewable Energy Systems.

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Does it matter what product I choose?

Because we offer a variety of solar products, we explain and compare the advantages of each system with the goal of finding the one that best suits your needs.

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What system do you feel is best?

This answer corresponds with the solar system that best meets your needs when all variables are considered.

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What kind of up-front payments are necessary? Can you tell me an average cost?

Generally, I request that most of the equipment be paid for up-front with the labour expense to be paid upon the job's completion. There is no average cost of system or installation as there are too many variables for every installation. However, it is our job to explain the advantages of each system whereby you can then determine the best system for your personal needs and budget.

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Is there government funding in place to help me install a solar hot-water system in my home?

Yes! Currently SolarBC is offering a $2,000 residential incentive, which you recieve at the point of sale.

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When is the deadline for application for the $2000 government grant for residential systems?

December 31, 2010.

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How long does it take for a system to be installed?

Every situation is unique, just as every house is; however, system installation typically takes between 3 and 5 days.

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Is there any maintenance necessary for any of these systems?

Maintenance is often minimal, such as checking the quality of the glycol or small and inexpensive pump replacements, which generally occur in the 3-5 year range.

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What kind of monitoring is available for any of these products?

Each system comes with its own unique controller. Some systems will connect via Wi-Fi to your own computer, others will display information directly on the system.

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What kind of product and installation warranties are there?

The average warranty on solar product is 10 years while Thermomax offers a 20 year warranty. G.E.T. Solar Solutions warranties our installation workmanship for one year.

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How long will it take before I see a difference in my hot-water bill?

From the first minute a system is completely installed it will provide heat to the domestic hot water, which will instantly lower energy usage.

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How long does it take before I get my government grant?

The grant of $2000 or a residential installation is received at the point of sale.

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Is there any other financing available to cover the cost of a solar installation?

Yes, and we would recommend you pursue this information independently: currently
TD Canada Trust and VanCity offer funding/ green loans for solar installation expenses.

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Are green energy audits still advisable even though the cost is not part of government incentives?

If you are unsure of the multitiple ways you can reduce your household energy consumption then an energy audit is a great idea; however, it is not necessary to receive the current grant available for residential solar installations.

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What are some other ways to reduce water consumption?

Low-flow faucets and shower heads are easily installed and provide reductions in both water usage and the energy associated with heating water. Recirculation lines can also be installed to reduce the amount of time it takes to have hot water at the tap, which reduces wasted water.

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Does BC's climate allow for annual solar energy collection for the purposes of hot-water heating?

In short, YES! Germany is the world's leading country of solar installations per capita and their annual solar energy availability is consistent with B.C. Additionally, Victoria is one of the sunniest cities in the province with half the annual rainfall of Vancouver and an estimated 2,223 hours of sunshine every year!

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What if I was interested in a commercial solar hot-water installation?

Please contact G.E.T. Solar Solutions directly to discuss the many opportunities available to you!

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