Category: Residential Solar

  • We Now Offer FrankinWH aPowerS & aPower2 Home Storage Batteries!

    We Now Offer FrankinWH aPowerS & aPower2 Home Storage Batteries!

    Published: May 28, 2026 Quick answer: Solar Topps now installs FranklinWH home storage batteries, including the aPower S and aPower2 models. These batteries offer superior lithium iron phosphate chemistry and smart energy management, making them a robust, efficient choice for Phoenix homeowners when compared to the Tesla Powerwall 3 and Enphase IQ10C. Phoenix homeowners know…

  • How Hot Do Solar Panels Get in Arizona? 2026 Solar Guide

    How Hot Do Solar Panels Get in Arizona? 2026 Solar Guide

    Published: May 19, 2026 Quick answer: Solar panels in Arizona can reach surface temperatures up to 149°F (65°C) during peak summer heat. Because temperatures above 77°F (25°C) reduce a solar panel’s efficiency, choosing premium equipment with a low temperature coefficient, like REC or Panasonic panels, ensures optimal energy production in hot climates. Arizona Homeowners often…

  • How Solar Energy Works: A Step by Step Guide for AZ Homeowners

    How Solar Energy Works: A Step by Step Guide for AZ Homeowners

    Updated: May 19, 2026 Harnessing the sun to power your daily life is one of the smartest investments you can make for your property. Every day, the Earth receives enough sunlight to easily cover global energy demands. Converting that abundant resource into usable electricity provides homeowners with lower utility bills, reduced carbon emissions, and reliable…

  • What is a Solar Site Survey? How We Assess Your AZ System

    What is a Solar Site Survey? How We Assess Your AZ System

    Published: April 24, 2026 Switching to renewable power is a major decision for any homeowner. Before a single solar panel is attached to your roof, you need to know exactly how your home handles electricity, how much sunlight your property receives, and if your roof can support the hardware. That is where a comprehensive solar…

  • Removing and Reinstalling Solar Panels for Arizona Homes

    Removing and Reinstalling Solar Panels for Arizona Homes

    Published: April 22, 2026 Solar energy systems are engineered to provide decades of reliable power, but the structures beneath them do not always share that exact timeline. Homeowners eventually face situations where their underlying roof requires maintenance, structural updates, or a complete replacement. When your roof needs attention, the panels above it must be carefully…

  • Beat Phoenix Pool Costs This Summer With Solar Energy

    Beat Phoenix Pool Costs This Summer With Solar Energy

    Published: April 17, 2026 As the intense summer heat approaches the Phoenix Metro area, backyard swimming pools transition from a luxury to an absolute necessity. Residents rely on their private oases to find relief from the soaring temperatures. However, this much-needed comfort brings a significant financial burden. Your energy costs for running a pool pump…

  • Understanding the Tesla Powerwall 3 Lifespan and Maintenance

    Understanding the Tesla Powerwall 3 Lifespan and Maintenance

    Published: March 24, 2026 Investing in solar energy storage requires clear, accurate information to ensure your home remains powered through any situation. Homeowners consistently evaluate different storage options to achieve complete energy independence. The Tesla Powerwall 3 stands out as a premier choice, offering robust performance and long-term reliability for your home energy system. You…

  • How Much Energy Does a 400w Solar Panel Produce in Arizona?

    How Much Energy Does a 400w Solar Panel Produce in Arizona?

    Published: March 18, 2026 Arizona enjoys over 300 sunny days a year. This abundant sunshine makes the state an ideal location for residential solar energy systems. Homeowners looking to reduce their utility bills frequently ask about the specific performance metrics of modern solar technology. Solar Topps will help guide you on your energy needs and…

  • How Many Watts does a Refrigerator Use in Arizona Homes?

    How Many Watts does a Refrigerator Use in Arizona Homes?

    Published: March 13, 2026 Your refrigerator never clocks out. It runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, quietly drawing power while you sleep, work, and go about your life. For most Arizona homeowners, it’s one of the biggest contributors to a monthly electric bill—and with energy prices set to climb in the summer…

  • How Many kWh to Charge a Tesla Model 3? Your Complete Phoenix Energy Guide

    How Many kWh to Charge a Tesla Model 3? Your Complete Phoenix Energy Guide

    Updated: May 28, 2026 Owning a Tesla Model 3 in the Phoenix metro area means understanding your vehicle’s energy consumption. Whether you’re cruising through Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, or Arcadia, knowing how many kWh it takes to charge your Tesla Model 3 helps you make informed decisions about your home energy setup. At Solar Topps, we’ve…

  • How Solar Topps Shines in Phoenix, AZ After 17 Sunny Years

    How Solar Topps Shines in Phoenix, AZ After 17 Sunny Years

    Published: February 23, 2026 Seventeen years is a long time in any industry. In residential solar, where companies have risen and fallen with alarming speed, it’s a lifetime. Since 2009, Solar Topps has weathered policy shifts, financing upheavals, and market volatility to become Arizona’s most trusted solar installation company. Our longevity isn’t luck—it’s the result…

  • How Can I Run My Pool Pump on Solar Power in AZ Summer?

    How Can I Run My Pool Pump on Solar Power in AZ Summer?

    Updated: May 13, 2026 In Phoenix, a swimming pool isn’t just a luxury; for many, it’s a survival tool against triple-digit heat. But that relief comes with a steep price tag. As temperatures soar, so does the energy required to keep your pool sparkling and swimmable. If you are one of the 33% of Phoenix…

  • Why Is My SRP Bill So High? A Solar Guide for Arizona Residents

    Why Is My SRP Bill So High? A Solar Guide for Arizona Residents

    Updated: April 27, 2026 For Arizona residents, high utility bills during the blazing summer months are nothing new. However, hefty Salt River Project (SRP) bills can leave many homeowners wondering exactly why their electricity costs are skyrocketing. Between scorching temperatures and SRP’s peak-hour pricing system, these bills may seem overwhelming, but there’s good news. By…

  • Solar Panel Wiring Guide: How To Connect Solar Panels in AZ

    Solar Panel Wiring Guide: How To Connect Solar Panels in AZ

    Updated: May 8, 2026 Arizona provides some of the best solar potential in the world. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, the opportunity to reduce energy bills and secure energy independence is massive. However, capturing that energy isn’t as simple as placing glass rectangles on a roof. It requires precise engineering and a…

  • How Solar Power & Energy is Changing the Way We Live in AZ

    How Solar Power & Energy is Changing the Way We Live in AZ

    Updated: May 13, 2026 Arizona’s relentless sun is a defining feature of our state’s culture and climate. For generations, it has dictated our architecture, our schedules, and our energy consumption. But a shift is underway. Today, that same powerful sun is being harnessed to change how we live, offering a path to energy independence, financial…

  • Secure Your Retirement Against Rising Energy Costs

    Secure Your Retirement Against Rising Energy Costs

    Updated: February 5, 2026 For residents of retirement communities like Sun City, Arizona, a fixed income requires careful financial planning. As utility rates continue their relentless climb, solar power presents a powerful opportunity to fix your energy costs, enhance your home’s value, and achieve financial predictability. While the most substantial federal incentives are set to…

  • What Is the 120% Rule in Solar? A Phoenix Homeowner’s Guide

    What Is the 120% Rule in Solar? A Phoenix Homeowner’s Guide

    Updated: May 26, 2026 Installing solar panels on your Phoenix home involves more than choosing the right panels and finding optimal roof placement. One crucial technical requirement that often determines your system size is the 120% rule in solar installations. This National Electric Code (NEC) regulation ensures your electrical system can safely handle both solar…

  • Solar Microinverters vs Power Optimizers: A Guide for Arizona

    Solar Microinverters vs Power Optimizers: A Guide for Arizona

    Updated: May 14, 2026 Choosing the right inverter technology for your solar system can significantly impact both performance and cost. Arizona homeowners in Gilbert and Mesa face unique considerations due to intense sunlight, varying roof orientations, and potential shading from neighboring structures or landscaping. This comprehensive comparison examines microinverters and power optimizers to help you…

  • How to Charge Your Tesla or EV with Solar Panels: A Complete Guide

    How to Charge Your Tesla or EV with Solar Panels: A Complete Guide

    Updated: May 26, 2026 Electric vehicles and solar panels create a powerful combination that can significantly reduce your energy costs while supporting Arizona’s clean energy future. For Phoenix-area residents considering this sustainable solution, understanding how to integrate solar panels with EV charging is essential for maximizing both financial savings and environmental benefits. Solar-powered EV charging,…

  • Best Solar Companies in Arizona: Solar Power World 2025 Top Solar Contractor

    Best Solar Companies in Arizona: Solar Power World 2025 Top Solar Contractor

    Updated: May 28, 2026 Solar Power World 2025 Top Solar Contractor Arizona homeowners researching solar energy face an important decision: choosing among the best solar companies in Arizona while understanding the complete picture of solar energy pros and cons. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Arizona offers ideal conditions for solar energy, but success…

  • What Size Solar Power Inverter Do I Need in Phoenix-Metro, AZ?

    What Size Solar Power Inverter Do I Need in Phoenix-Metro, AZ?

    Updated: April 24, 2026 What Size Solar Power Inverter Do I Need? When planning a solar energy system or a backup power solution, selecting the correct inverter size is crucial. A Solar Inverter in Scottsdale is the heart of any power conversion setup, as it transforms direct current (DC) from your solar panels or battery…

  • How to Keep Your Garage Cool During an Arizona Summer? (And Why it Matters for your Solar Investment)

    How to Keep Your Garage Cool During an Arizona Summer? (And Why it Matters for your Solar Investment)

    Updated: May 14, 2026 How to keep your garage cool in the summer? If you’ve ever stepped into your Arizona garage during summer and felt like you walked into an oven, you’re not alone! Those scorching 120°F temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable – they’re secretly driving up your energy bills and reducing your solar system’s effectiveness. …

  • Does Hail Damage Solar Panels During Arizona Monsoons?

    Does Hail Damage Solar Panels During Arizona Monsoons?

    Updated: May 28, 2026 Arizona’s Monsoon season brings dramatic weather changes that can leave Arizona homeowners wondering about the safety of their solar investments. With golf ball-sized hail and severe thunderstorms becoming increasingly common, understanding how these weather events affect solar panels is crucial for protecting your energy investment. At Solar Topps, we service the…

  • How Many Tesla Powerwall 3’s Do I Need for My AZ Home?

    How Many Tesla Powerwall 3’s Do I Need for My AZ Home?

    Updated: May 27, 2026 Arizona homeowners are increasingly turning to battery storage to maximize their solar investment and protect against power outages. The Tesla Powerwall 3 offers advanced energy storage capabilities, but determining the right number for your home requires careful consideration of your energy consumption, solar production, and backup power goals. This comprehensive guide…

  • Can Solar Panels Power a Whole House in Arizona?

    Can Solar Panels Power a Whole House in Arizona?

    Updated: April 17, 2026 Arizona is one of the sunniest states in America, and harnessing the power of the sun is more than just an eco-friendly choice here – it’s a smart financial decision. But can solar panels power an entire house? The short answer is yes, with the right system in place. This post…

  • What is the Best Angle for Solar Panels in Arizona?

    What is the Best Angle for Solar Panels in Arizona?

    Updated: January 13, 2026 The Bottom Line: Best Angles for Solar Panels For most homes in Arizona, south-facing solar panels tilted at 15–40° offer the best overall performance. But don’t stress if your roof faces east or west — you can still generate substantial solar energy and significantly reduce your electric bills. When determining the…

  • Do Solar Panels Need Direct Sunlight? A Solar Weather Guide

    Do Solar Panels Need Direct Sunlight? A Solar Weather Guide

    Updated: January 13, 2026 When considering solar energy, one common question arises: Do solar panels need direct sunlight to work efficiently? While direct sunlight maximizes performance, modern solar panels are adaptable, capable of producing electricity in a wide range of weather conditions. Whether you’re curious about cloudy days, heavy rain, or shaded installations, this guide…

  • How Much Do Solar Storage Batteries Cost in Arizona?

    How Much Do Solar Storage Batteries Cost in Arizona?

    Updated: May 26, 2026 Are you considering adding solar storage batteries to your home in Arizona? These powerful energy systems can help you store surplus energy from your solar panels to use during nighttime, cloudy days, or outages. But one critical question remains for most homeowners: How much do solar batteries cost? If you’re curious…

  • What Are APS Peak Hours for AZ Homes in 2026?

    What Are APS Peak Hours for AZ Homes in 2026?

    Updated: May 14, 2026 Understanding APS peak hours is crucial for managing your household’s energy use and reducing your electricity bill. As electricity demand in Arizona increases during the summer, timing your energy use wisely can help. So, What are APS Peak Hours for AZ Residents? To understand, follow this complete guide with Solar Topps. It…

  • What Arizona Homeowners Should Know When a Solar Company Goes Bankrupt (Like Sunnova)

    What Arizona Homeowners Should Know When a Solar Company Goes Bankrupt (Like Sunnova)

    Updated: October 23, 2025 The solar industry has entered rocky territory again: another high-profile solar company bankruptcy just shook the market. In early 2025, Sunnova Energy filed for Chapter 11, marking one of the largest collapses the industry has seen in recent years. If you’re an Arizona homeowner exploring solar—or already have panels on your roof—this…

  • Do you still have an Electric Bill with Solar Panels?

    Do you still have an Electric Bill with Solar Panels?

    Updated: May 28, 2026 Many of our customers ask, Do you still have an Electric Bill with Solar Panels? Switching to solar panels is a popular choice for people in Arizona. This is due to the sunny weather, rising energy costs, and a strong desire for cleaner energy. But one question often arises for those…

  • How Long do Solar Panel Batteries Last for AZ Residents?

    How Long do Solar Panel Batteries Last for AZ Residents?

    Updated: May 28, 2026 When investing in solar energy for your Arizona home, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “How long do solar panel batteries last?” The answer is not as straightforward as one might hope, as several factors influence the longevity of solar batteries. However, what’s certain is this: advancements in…

  • How Much Energy Do Solar Panels Produce Per Day In Arizona?

    How Much Energy Do Solar Panels Produce Per Day In Arizona?

    Updated: April 24, 2026 How much Energy Do Solar Panels Produce Per Day? Solar panels are becoming an increasingly common sight across Arizona, and for good reason. With abundant sunshine year-round, Arizona offers near-perfect conditions for solar power generation. But how much energy do Phoenix solar panels actually produce per day in this sun-soaked state?…

  • Is the Residential Solar Tax Credit Going Away?

    Is the Residential Solar Tax Credit Going Away?

    Updated:  January 9, 2026 Is the solar tax credit ending? Imagine you’re finally ready to take control of your electric bill. You’ve done the math, talked to your neighbor who swears going solar was the best decision they’ve made, and you’re prepared to leap. That’s when Congressional Republicans push to eliminate Residential Solar Tax Credits,…

  • The Complete Guide to Cleaning Solar Panels

    The Complete Guide to Cleaning Solar Panels

    Updated: March 18, 2026 Keeping your solar panels clean is key to getting the most from your investment in sustainable energy. Dust, dirt, bird droppings, and pollen can build up over time, cutting efficiency by up to 20%. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure your system performs well and lasts longer. This guide will walk you…

  • How Solar Power Affects Your APS/SRP Bill in Arizona

    How Solar Power Affects Your APS/SRP Bill in Arizona

    Updated: May 8, 2026 Installing solar panels in Arizona is a strategic financial decision that can markedly lower your energy expenses and promote a sustainable future. As electricity costs continue to rise, Arizona homeowners are turning to solar power for both immediate and long-term financial relief. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, residents…

  • Solar vs. Wind Energy in Arizona: A Homeowners Guide for 2026

    Solar vs. Wind Energy in Arizona: A Homeowners Guide for 2026

    Updated: April 17, 2026 Arizona’s climate provides an unmatched advantage for solar energy production. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Arizona receives more than 5.75 kWh/m²/day of solar radiation on average, making it one of the most solar-rich regions in the United States. With over 300 sunny days per year, according to NOAA…

  • The Solar Power Duck Curve: How to Manage Daily Energy

    The Solar Power Duck Curve: How to Manage Daily Energy

    Updated: May 28, 2026 The rapid adoption of renewable energy, particularly solar power, has transformed Arizona’s electrical grid system. As we transition away from fossil fuels, utilities across the state face a unique challenge known as the “duck curve” — a phenomenon that becomes more pronounced as solar adoption increases. For homeowners and businesses in…

  • Understanding Solar Panel Scams: A Consumer Protection Guide

    Understanding Solar Panel Scams: A Consumer Protection Guide

    Updated: April 8, 2026 The transition to renewable energy represents one of the most significant shifts in how we power our homes and businesses. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, solar installations have grown exponentially in recent years, but this growth has unfortunately attracted scam artists and solar panel scam companies who exploit consumers’…

  • Do I Need a Main Panel Upgrade (MPU) for My Solar Installation? 

    Do I Need a Main Panel Upgrade (MPU) for My Solar Installation? 

    Updated: May 26, 2026 As solar energy becomes an increasingly popular option for homeowners and businesses alike, many people are eager to make the switch to cleaner, more sustainable power. An often overlooked component of solar installations is the condition of your home’s electrical system, especially the main electrical panel. Suppose your existing electrical panel can’t…

  • How do Solar Battery Storage Systems Work for AZ Homeowners?

    How do Solar Battery Storage Systems Work for AZ Homeowners?

    Updated: May 14, 2026 In today’s world, where energy demand is skyrocketing and environmental concerns are more pressing than ever, solar energy emerges as a beacon of sustainable and renewable energy. However, the intermittent nature of solar power, with its dependency on sunny days, has often been a stumbling block in its path to becoming…

  • How to Choose a Solar Company?

    How to Choose a Solar Company?

    Updated: May 28, 2026 Quick Answer: Local solar installers in Arizona are typically 20% cheaper than national companies, offer faster response times, and provide better workmanship quality. Calculate price per watt ($2-3 is fair) and prioritize NABCEP-certified local installers for the best value. Choosing the right solar company can make or break your solar experience.…

  • Homeowners Insurance Guide for Your Solar System

    Homeowners Insurance Guide for Your Solar System

    Updated: April 7,2026 A Solar system protected by homeowners’ insurance is a great investment for your house. Solar can increase your home’s value, substantially reduce your utility bills, and provide the energy independence you deserve. However, one of the most important things to consider is how you will protect your investment.  Although Solar Topps prides itself on…