Solar installation is a massive investment in your home, so you must get it right from the beginning to avoid disappointments later on. Part of getting it right is finding a trustworthy solar installer who knows their craft, one with a reputation for excellence. Here are several things you should examine when selecting a solar installer for your home.
The very first thing you should examine is how long the solar installer has been in the industry. Checking for a certificate of good standing can provide assurance that the company is compliant with regulations and financially stable. You may engage relatively new entrants in the industry, but you should be sure that they will be around for the next 20+ years of your solar warranty.
If your solar panel contractor goes out of business, the warranty will be meaningless, and you have to spend money outsourcing the maintenance and cleaning services of your solar panels. Ideally, you should engage an installer who has been around for at least five years.
You can contact the company to know how long they have been in business or check online on the state licensing board.
Don’t rely on one quote to make a decision. Multiple quotes will allow you to compare different proposals, evaluate a company’s credentials, and, most importantly, get a fair price. Since solar installation is a hefty investment, you want to entrust the job to a company that charges fairly without compromising on the job quality.
However, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. A professional solar company will first schedule a site visit before naming a quote. They’ll come to learn about your energy consumption to estimate the number of panels needed and assess the structural soundness of your roof.
Although solar panels’ design allows them to last for decades, stay armed with a warranty in case things go wrong after installation. Most companies will give you an equipment warranty for 10 years and a performance guarantee of up to 25 years.
Often, there is a difference in length between the installer’s warranty and the manufacturer’s warranty. Therefore, the installer must clarify who will shoulder the labor costs in case the installer’s warranty expires before the manufacturer’s warranty.
Unfortunately, not all installers offer follow-up maintenance. It would be best to give such installers a wide berth because you need someone to rely on when your system needs servicing. Opt for a contractor who, after installation, will still manage your system throughout its lifetime.
The best way to know if an installer is worth the money is by learning from previous customers. Reviews tell you a lot about the kind of service and customer support to expect. If the installer has good reviews from past customers, you can proceed with the installer without fear.
Places to check an installer’s reviews and customer ratings include Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Solar Reviews, Energy Space, and Google. If the company you are eyeing has low customer ratings and too many complaints, you had better look for another installer.
A reputable solar company must have all the relevant licenses and insurance. An installer should at least have a general electrical contractor’s license. A contractor with this license can handle all the electrical work for your solar system.
Other standard licenses include home improvement, electrician, general contracting, or home performance contracting licenses. The contractor must also be certified by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and hold general liability insurance. Since the requirements vary by state, do some due diligence to know which requirements apply in your location.
Looking for a tried and tested solar installer with many years of experience? Contact Harmon Solar. We guarantee unmatched service.
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