With solar prices dropping rapidly, more and more people are looking to join the party – but which solar installer should you choose?
First things first: make sure to contact at least three solar companies. They’ll survey your home and give you an estimate in line with your needs. When you get those quotes, though, you’ll want to know what you’re paying for.
Well, that’s where we come in! Here are five questions that will help you determine whether a solar company is a good fit for you.
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1. What Products Do You Offer?
Not all solar panels are the same—or made from the same materials. Right now, the three main types of solar panel systems on the market are:
- Monocrystalline: expensive, high-efficiency
- Polycrystalline: affordable, lower efficiency
- Thin-film: best suited for commercial buildings
If a solar company suggests low-quality panels, you may need to wait longer to see a return on your investment. Discuss your options with the company during the consultation before choosing your system.
2. What’s Included in the Contract?
Solar panels are a big investment, so you’ll want to read the fine print. If you’re renting your panels, get a copy of the solar lease. If you’re buying, ask a question if any parts of the contract seem vague.
Important things to look out for include warranties, maintenance, and repairs. For example, how will you finance your panels? What happens to your solar installation if the manufacturer goes out of business?
3. Can You Provide Testimonials?
Ideally, your solar company of choice would let you call anyone from their customer list. Do they only want you to call former customers they’ve picked ahead of time? If so, ask yourself why that’s the case.
Of course, you should also do research on your own. Start by checking the company’s rating on the Better Business Bureau. Reputable and independent customer review sites can also offer valuable information.
4. Who Will Install the Panels?
Are the installers full-time employees or will the company outsource the job? Companies located out of state are more likely to hire subcontractors. For guaranteed quality control, choose a residential solar company near you.
Regardless of who you hire, ask about their experience. Each state has its tax laws, processes, and incentives. If a company has done some installations in your area, they’re more likely to understand your needs.
5. How Much Will This Cost Me?
For most people, this is at the very top of important solar installer questions to ask. Solar panel installations can vary wildly in price. Key cost factors include panel type, energy use, size of your house, and so on.
One helpful thing to ask for here is an itemized breakdown. Have a company include the cost of labor and each piece of equipment. That way, you can compare quotes and get the best deal.
Pick the Right Solar Installer for You
As tempting as it is to choose a solar installer purely based on cost, there are plenty of other factors to keep in mind. By asking the above questions, you can make sure that a solar company has your best interests in mind!
Now that you know which solar company questions to ask, why not look into the advantages of each solar panel system? Keep reading our Technology section to learn more!