Solar energy is the energy source of the future since it’s renewable and doesn’t harm the environment to provide power to homes and businesses. It’s a cost-effective way of powering your house while enjoying the perks of green living, and it’s time to take the plunge if you’re one of the 39 percent of homeowners planning to get solar panels for your home.
The challenge is finding the best solar installer to install solar panels on your roof or yard. Failing to do your due diligence could cost you thousands of dollars if you’re not careful.
Fortunately, you’ve discovered this eye-opening guide toward learning the essential tips to use when you hire a solar installer for your home. Continue reading to hire the best solar company in your area today!
Ask for Referrals
Solar panels are gaining popularity nationwide. Some of your neighbors may have already installed solar panels at their homes to capture the benefits of the Sun’s energy. Ask your neighbors for referrals when you start finding a solar company in your area.
You can learn more about the timeline for the installation process and if the solar company was pleasant to work with. Find out which solar company they used and if they’d recommend them to you for your home’s energy needs. Ask about customer service, warranty coverage, and solar installer fees to determine if it’s viable.
Check Online Customer Reviews
Online customer reviews are another excellent resource to use when you’re looking for a solar installer. The online reviews will help narrow your options and eliminate poorly-rated solar companies. Eliminate companies with a trend of negative reviews for a peaceful solar installation process.
It’s wise to pair the online customer reviews with the feedback you receive from your neighbors. A good solar company has mainly four and five-star reviews. Google and Facebook are perfect resources for seeking online reviews for solar companies.
Look for themes with the reviews you’re reading. A solar installer with reviews about poor communication and customer service is a red flag. A solar installer who addresses concerns and fixes issues is worth working with.
The number of reviews is another thing to consider when weighing your options. A solar company with hundreds of reviews has a strong track record you can trust. It’s best to play things safe and work with a solar company with a long history of providing quality service.
Look for Financing
Solar panel installations are costly, so it’s wise to consider solar companies that offer financing. Most homeowners lack the cash to pay upfront for the total cost of the panels and system. Financing allows you to make a down payment and monthly payments to pay back what you owe for your renewable energy source.
Some solar companies offer rental options for solar panels, though you’ll miss out on the government incentives when leasing. Financing makes solar energy a realistic choice for more homeowners.
A solar installer offering to finance runs a professional and successful business. You can trust them to do an excellent job and use the best materials. This helpful info will point you in the right direction for your home’s energy needs.
Go Local
A local solar panel company is the best option for your home’s energy needs. No one plans on their solar panels having issues, but having a technician near your home will help to get your system back online as soon as possible. Ensure they have a branch near your home for maintenance and repairs should your solar panels encounter issues.
Local branches want to maintain their reputation and go the extra mile to ensure customers are happy. You’ll enjoy a personal experience working with the local branch or company for your renewable energy upgrades.
Ask About Warranties
Warranties are another crucial component to consider when you hire a solar installer. Most solar panels are built to last up to 30 years; you should expect a warranty to cover most of that time. The best solar panel companies offer warranties ranging from 25 to 30 years so you can enjoy peace of mind.
You can trust that the solar installer will fix or replace any broken components or panels during that timespan. It’s the best way to protect your investment when you choose to go off-grid with your power.
Look for Certifications and Insurance
Installing solar panels on a roof is risky, and it’s critical to ensure that the solar company is certified and insured before proceeding. Lack of insurance could leave you liable for any injuries suffered during installation.
Certifications are also proof that the installers are trained and knowledgeable. The North American Board of Energy Practitioners is the gold standard for solar installation certification. You can count on the solar installer to install a safe and efficient solar panel system if they’ve achieved the NABEP certification.
Get Multiple Quotes
You can use reviews and referrals to narrow your options to a shortlist. Once your shortlist is ready, start reaching out for quotes from the solar installers near you to find options within your price range. A cost-effective solar option that offers financing is an excellent path toward renewable energy for your home.
Take time to compare each option once you’ve received each quote. Compare the line items rather than the totals. You can compare what you’re getting quoted for panels, batteries, and charge controllers with an in-depth comparison of your quotes.
Find the Perfect Solar Installer Today
Finding a solar installer to install panels on your home is crucial to escape rising energy bills and environmental damage. Ask for referrals, check online reviews to find the best solar company in your area, and check their website to learn about their experience level and financing options. Use multiple quotes to find the best option to hire a solar installer.
Are you ready to start green living? Check out the rest of our technology and real estate content for more solar tips today!
