Solar Transparency with ARC
At ARC, we believe in transparency. We’ve seen far too many homeowners sign long-term solar contracts based on rushed decisions, unrealistic promises, and vague information. If you’re exploring solar for your home, here’s what we want you to know before signing anything.
1. Read the Fine Print – Especially the Financing Terms
If you’re financing your system, don’t just read the installer’s proposal. Make sure you fully understand the bank’s contract, especially if you’re signing a lease or PPA (Power Purchase Agreement). That document outlines every payment you’ll make over the life of the agreement.
Some customers think they’re paying $20,000 for a system. But after reviewing the full financing terms, the actual cost over 20–25 years can be more than double that. We’ve seen cases where a $19,800 system ends up costing $41,800 when all the monthly payments are added up.
2. Understand the Sales Structure
Not all solar sales reps work the same way. But in many cases, they are commission-based and focused on closing deals quickly. This creates pressure to say what needs to be said to get a signature — not always what’s true.
Here are two common tactics we’ve heard:
“This program is only available to 2 or 3 homes on your street.” (False — they’re often knocking on every door.)
“Your electric bill will drop to zero.” (In most cases, that is not accurate. Even with full offset, utility companies charge monthly base connection fees.)
At ARC, we don’t use gimmicks or time-limited “neighborhood deals.” We’ll walk you through your options clearly and let the numbers speak for themselves.
3. Ask About System Maintenance and Service
Solar is low maintenance, but it’s not maintenance-free. Panels can loosen, production can drop, and inverters eventually need service. We’ve seen service calls cost $400 or more just for a routine check.
At ARC, we include 25-year equipment warranties and use components we trust. We also service what we install and handle support directly, so you’re not chasing third-party companies.
4. Get the Right Contacts – Not Just a Sales Number
Before you agree to anything, ask for the direct contact of your project manager or the solar operations team. Avoid relying only on the person who sold you the system. If they refuse to give you a direct contact or send you back to a call center, that’s something to think about.
At ARC, we’re a full-service EPC, which means no outsourcing and no runaround. You’ll work with our team from start to finish.
5. Make Sure It’s the Right Fit for Your Home
If your average electric bill is under $100 per month, solar may not be the right financial move. In some cases, homeowners end up saving very little or even paying more than before. ARC will tell you that upfront. We don’t sell systems to people who won’t benefit from them.
6. Understand the Commitment
Financing a solar system is a real contract, and many lenders file a lien on your home until the loan is paid off. Make sure you fully understand what you’re agreeing to. We’re not here to scare you. We are here to help you make an informed decision.
7. Know Who You're Working With
Unfortunately, there are companies in the industry that target seniors and vulnerable homeowners. We’ve seen heartbreaking situations where people were signed up without fully understanding what they agreed to. That is not what solar should be about.
We believe solar should build trust, not take advantage of it. That’s why we take the extra steps to explain the process, verify understanding, and ensure you’re truly ready before moving forward.
ARC Approach
We aren’t here to push a sale. We’re here to design smart systems, answer your questions honestly, and give you a clear look at your options. Whether you move forward with us or not, we want you to understand what you’re getting and why it matters.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If it feels rushed or confusing, take a step back. Solar is a long-term investment, and we’re here to make sure it’s done the right way. As always, get quotes, ask questions, and understand what you’re getting into before you sign on the dotted line!
