Harmon Solar Podcast

Hosted by Harmon Solar

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Latest episode

Apr 2026

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EN-US

About the show

The solar energy sector in Arizona is currently oversaturated, which has led to a scarcity of transparency. In response, we've created a podcast to provide an honest perspective on going solar in the state. Join us as we explore the intricacies of utilities, equipment, processes, and more. Our primary objective is to educate and empower you to make informed decisions on your solar journey.

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33 recent

April 16, 202627 min

Let's Talk Solar Troubleshooting 101: Higher Than Expected Energy Bill

Send us Fan MailIf you’ve gone solar but still find yourself staring at a higher-than-expected electric bill, you’re not alone—and the answer might not be what you think.In this episode of the Harman Solar Podcast, Ralph and Ben break down the most common reason homeowners call in frustrated: “Why is my bill so high if I have solar?” The truth? There are a few possible causes—and one of them surprises almost everyone.Ben walks through how we troubleshoot your system, from checking expected vs. actual production to verifying output through your utility meter (not just your app). The guys also dive into a major misconception: just because you have solar doesn’t mean unlimited power.You’ll learn: The reasons your solar bill can increase How to tell if your system is actually underperforming Why 95% of high-bill cases come down to usage changes The difference between a monitoring issue vs. a real system problem How lifestyle changes (thermostat, guests, new appliances) impact your bill Why you’ll always have some utility bill, especially in hot climates like Phoenix How misleading sales promises can set the wrong expectations Plus, Ralph and Ben introduce Harman Solar’s free 90-day active monitoring program, giving you real-time insights into your system’s performance and energy usage—so you can stop guessing and start knowing.Bottom line: Solar is about reducing your costs—not eliminating them—and understanding your data is the key to maximizing your savings.

December 17, 2025Episode 1244 min

Let's Talk Solar O&M with Amicus

Send us Fan MailMost people are told solar is “set it and forget it.” We pull back the curtain on why that myth costs owners money, risks safety, and jeopardizes warranties—and what smart O&M looks like when it’s done right. With guest Amanda Bybee, CEO of Amicus O&M Cooperative, we explore the full life of a solar asset from turn‑on to decommissioning, and the simple steps that keep arrays producing at their potential.

October 31, 2025Episode 1130 min

Let's Talk Commercial Solar Deadlines

Send us Fan MailCommercial solar is on the clock.Ralph and Ben sit down with Harmon Electric COO Dan King to explain how businesses can still lock in up to a 30% federal tax credit — but only if they act before the year-end safe harbor deadline.We cover: • Why residential solar is basically sold out for this year’s tax credit, but commercial is not • How “safe harbor” works (5% down, documented equipment, contract) • Why waiting until January triggers new FIAC rules, higher prices, and limited supply • Real numbers: a $1M solar project can mean ~$300K in tax creditIf you’re a business owner thinking about solar, this is the window.

September 27, 2025Episode 1031 min

Let's Give You a Solar Industry Update

Send us Fan Mail With federal tax credit deadlines fast approaching, the Harmon Solar team delivers honest insights on what homeowners can realistically expect when it comes to installation timelines. We also dive into the supply chain crunch on domestic panels, major shifts in solar financing, and the comeback of leasing — with fixed rates as low as 9¢ per kilowatt hour, nearly half the cost of today’s utility power. Plus, Ralph and Ben introduce new active monitoring services designed to protect homeowners by detecting issues before they impact monthly bills.

August 6, 2025Episode 956 min

Let's Talk with Prevost Law Firm

Send us Fan MailEver wonder what happens when those too-good-to-be-true solar promises fall apart? In this eye-opening conversation with attorney Neil Prevost, we pull back the curtain on the solar industry's shadowy side. Whether you're exploring solar options or already experiencing problems with your system, this conversation provides essential insights that could save you from becoming another cautionary tale.

July 14, 2025Episode 849 min

Let's Talk Deceptive Sales Tactics

Send us Fan MailNavigating the solar marketplace can feel like walking through a minefield of misleading claims and high-pressure tactics. From "free solar" promises to salespeople pretending to represent your utility company, deceptive practices have unfortunately become commonplace in an industry that should be focused on transparency and sustainability. Ralph and Ben draw from years of frontline experience to expose the most common solar sales deceptions.

July 9, 2025Episode 723 min

Let's Talk Some Breaking News: ITC Update

Send us Fan MailIn this breaking news episode, we dive into the just-signed energy bill that eliminates this significant financial incentive for homeowners after December 31, 2025. We unpack what this means for different types of solar customers. While those considering leases can breathe easy (that tax credit continues through 2027), cash buyers and those planning to finance their systems face a rapidly closing window of opportunity. Beyond consumer impacts, we examine how this transition will reshape the solar industry itself.

June 16, 2025Episode 653 min

Let's Talk to a Tax Professional

Send us Fan MailConfused about how solar affects your taxes? You're not alone. In this eye-opening episode, tax expert Bill Spahr pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood aspects of going solar – the tax implications.When salespeople throw around terms like "tax rebate" instead of "tax credit," it's more than just semantics – it could mean thousands of dollars of difference in your expectations. Bill breaks down exactly what the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is, how it works, and why you need to understand your tax liability before making solar decisions.

May 19, 2025Episode 555 min

Let's Talk HVAC

Send us Fan MailDid you know your air conditioning system accounts for a staggering 40-60% of your energy consumption in Arizona? Ralph and Ben engage in an eye-opening conversation with HVAC expert Andy Hobica of Hobica Services. As the third-generation owner of a 73-year-old family business, Andy brings unparalleled expertise about the critical connection between solar power and efficient home cooling.

April 28, 2025Episode 41 hr 4 min

Lat's Talk Solar Panel Cleaning

Send us Fan MailSolar panel cleaning might sound simple, but this eye-opening conversation reveals why it's anything but. We track the journey from dusty, bird-dropping-covered panels to pristine energy producers, with real-time data showing an immediate 8% production increase after a single cleaning. Whether you're considering maintenance for the first time or wondering if your current cleaning schedule makes financial sense, this practical discussion will help you protect your solar investment. As Rick puts it, "Panel cleaning is not for everyone, but everyone should take a look."