1. Expertise
Installers should have experience in installing solar energy systems. It is best to have at least 2 years’ experience in solar energy or related fields. This will help you know what your company standard is.
NABCEP is the most popular national standard certification program right now. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners certifies the top solar installers. Solar company reviews can be viewed, even if you don’t have the NABCEP certification.
2. Insurance And License
All necessary business licenses and insurance policies should be obtained by solar installers. It is important to ensure that your electricians are licensed to work with the electrical components and wiring of your system.
Solar installers need to have a standard license. These licenses can be general contracting, electrician, home improvements, or home performance contracting licenses. Installers should also be covered by general liability insurance.
3. Experience And Track Record
Solar is an expanding industry that attracts many professionals from different backgrounds. It can be difficult to find an experienced and reliable installer, but it is a huge advantage. It is important to ensure that your solar company doesn’t abandon your project. A solar provider should also be able to show you examples of systems that have been installed by previous clients.
4. Reputation On The Market
Reviewing past customers of solar companies is a great way to evaluate installers. Reviews and ratings can help you to find the right person. You can get a head-up on the poor behavior of your installer by looking at reviews and ratings. You should not work with an installer if you see a pattern in customer complaints.
5. Warranty On Workmanship
The workmanship warranty covers any problems that may arise from a bad installation. The workmanship warranty covers any damage to a panel that is loose due to improperly installed screws.
These warranties can be extended by contractors for as long as 1 to 25 years.
Avoid unrecognized companies that offer extended warranties. Although they may offer a 10- or 25-year warranty in order to close a deal, there is no guarantee that they will keep it up.
You need to ensure that the company offering an extended warranty is able to prove its track record in the solar industry. It is important to know that the company will continue to offer that warranty for ten years.
6. Competitive Quotes
Solar installations can be done by different contractors at different rates. Some are more affordable than others. Every billing system is possible, but cost-per-watt is the most common and straightforward. The size of your system will determine how much the installer will charge.
Many companies will arrange an appointment to visit your home in order to accurately calculate the price. You can ask any remaining questions during this appointment, which includes the following.
- Are you able to get the permits my state and city require?
- Based on my monthly energy consumption, how many panels will I need?
- Is there a warranty? If so, what is it?
To ensure a competitive rate, you can get quotes from as many installers as possible. It might surprise you at the differences between their quotes. This could help you save a few thousand dollars on your installation.
You should build a strong, positive relationship with your solar installer. Going solar is an important investment in your home. It is important to choose a reliable company to provide you with accurate and complete information. The best installers will help you understand the role of solar in your home’s energy system.
Call us today to speak with one of our energy experts and help you decide if solar panels would be a good option for your home.
This post was written by Daniel Massaad, owner and expert solar technician at Energy Solutions Direct! ESD is one of the premier Tampa solar companies! Our licensed and certified contractors are masters of their craft; with years of experience servicing the great Tampa Bay area and beyond, the choice is simple. ESD excels at offering you the best in solar value!