Going solar can help your business lower its energy costs. It can also help you strengthen your sustainability goals. To get started, you’ll need to choose a residential solar contractor.
But with so many solar installation companies, deciding which one to go with can take time. This can often lead to you picking the first solar company you encounter. You might need to realize that there are some factors to consider before choosing a residential solar contractor.
Are you planning to install a residential solar system soon? Are you looking for some help on how to select residential solar contractors? If so, be sure to keep reading below for everything you need to know about choosing the best solar installation company for your home.
Check Their Credentials and Experience
One of the most critical tips when selecting a residential solar contractor is to check their credentials and experience. Installing solar panels requires specialized knowledge and skills, and choosing an inexperienced or unlicensed contractor can lead to costly mistakes and safety hazards.
License
A contractor’s license is one of the first things you should look for when deciding whether or not to hire them. A reputable contractor will have a license from the state where they do business. This shows they have met certain standards and are qualified to install solar panels. Most of the time, you can check a contractor’s license by going to the contractor’s website or calling the licensing board in your state.
Insurance
A good solar contractor should also have insurance in case something goes wrong. This protects you and the contractor in case something goes wrong or gets broken while the work is being done. The contractor should have both worker’s compensation and liability insurance, and if asked, they should be able to show proof of coverage.
Certification
When judging a solar contractor, it’s important to look at their certifications. Look for a contractor certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) or another reputable organization. These certifications show that the contractor has been through a lot of training and has a high skill level in installing solar panels.
Experience
Solar installation experience is also crucial when selecting a residential solar contractor. Installing solar panels is a complex process requiring electrical wiring, roofing, and structural engineering expertise. A contractor with a proven track record of successful installations will be better equipped to handle any challenges during your project.
Evaluate Their Customer Service
When looking for options for solar contractors, it’s important to consider how well they treat their customers. During the installation process, a good contractor should be responsive, pay attention, and be willing to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Good customer service can make a big difference in how well your solar project goes.
When judging a solar contractor’s customer service, one of the first things to look for is how quickly they get back to you. The contractor should be easy to get in touch with and should answer your calls or emails quickly. They should also be willing to meet with you for a consultation to talk about your solar options and answer any questions you may have.
Get Multiple Bids
When looking for a residential solar contractor, getting more than one bid is important. By getting bids from multiple contractors, you can compare the cost, quality of materials, and scope of work for each bid. This gives you the information you need to decide and choose a contractor who fits your needs and budget the best.
Ask About Warranties and Maintenance
When choosing a solar contractor for a home, it’s important to ask about warranties and upkeep. Solar panels are an investment for the long term, so you want them to work well for a long time. Asking about warranties and maintenance can give you peace of mind and help protect your investment.
The warranty on the solar panels should be one of the first things you ask about. Most solar panels come with a warranty from the company that made them that covers problems with the panels for a certain amount of time. Make sure you know what the warranty covers and how it works. Some warranties may only cover problems with the parts, while others may also cover problems with the labor and installation.
It would help if you also asked about the warranty for the work being done. This warranty covers problems because the installation wasn’t done right, like leaks or other problems. The solar contractor should give you a warranty on the installation, which should be for a reasonable amount of time, like ten years.
Evaluate Their Financing Options
When selecting a residential solar contractor, evaluating their financing options is important. Solar installations can be expensive, and many homeowners may require financing options to make the investment feasible. A good solar contractor should offer various financing options to meet the needs of their customers looking to invest in solar energy.
Solar Lease
A solar lease is one of the most popular financing options for solar installations. With a lease, the homeowner pays a monthly fee to lease the solar panels and equipment from the solar contractor. The solar contractor retains ownership of the equipment and the homeowner benefits from the energy savings.
Solar Loan
Another financing option is a solar loan. With a loan, the homeowner borrows money from a lender to purchase solar panels and equipment. The loan is repaid over time, usually with a fixed interest rate. Solar loans may have longer repayment terms than traditional ones, making them more affordable for homeowners.
PPA
Power purchase agreements (PPAs) are another financing option for solar installations. With a PPA, the homeowner agrees to purchase the energy produced by the solar panels at a predetermined rate. The solar contractor retains ownership of the panels and the homeowner benefits from the energy savings.
Select Residential Solar Contractors Without Resentment
When you select residential solar contractors, you should ensure they are experienced, certified and offer competitive pricing. Do your research to compare different contractors and get the best value for your money.
Let the professionals guide you in your solar journey. Contact a solar contractor today and get started with solar energy!
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