Solar energy has become one of the best forms of alternative energy available. Homeowners can install them on their roofs, and power companies can invest in solar farms for massive production. That’s why it’s no surprise that the total solar production capacity in the United States is expected to grow by 5% in 2023.
And since solar panels are at an all-time low price, it makes sense to invest in an installation yourself. But you’ll need the right help with your solar installation if you want the job done right.
Read the guide below to learn how to find the best solar panel company for the job.
Start Local
Finding a solar company with a local presence is critical when searching for a solar installer. The building rules in your area are likely unique and not the same in another location. A company with a local presence will have a license in your area and understand those rules.
Start your search by finding companies in your immediate area. The company should have completed many jobs before and be able to meet all your local building codes.
It’s fine if a company has a regional or national presence. Just make sure the company’s local arm focuses on your area and regularly does work there.
Verify Insurance Coverage
You don’t want to work with a solar power company that doesn’t have insurance. Although professionals will usually be safe, there’s always the chance of something unexpected happening that causes injury or property damage.
Your solar installer should cover workers and your property when this happens. It’s also required by law in many locations for home contractors to carry insurance.
If a company doesn’t, you may be on the hook for damage that occurs. Get verification that a company has coverage before allowing them on your roof.
Learn about Solar Certifications
Local licenses aren’t the only thing a solar installer can get to prove they can handle a solar installation. There are also many national organizations available for companies to join.
An excellent example of this is the Solar Energy Association. Installers can apply to join the group, prove they are reputable solar installers, and get the organization’s certification.
Joining these groups proves that a solar installer is dedicated to the industry. It’s not a deal-breaker if an installer isn’t part of a national group, but it is something to pay attention to.
Get Accurate Quotes
Most home solar installations are unique. Your neighbor’s installation may be completely different than the one you need. You need the correct number of solar panels to power your home, align them correctly, and properly install them on your roof.
This is why you can’t take general quotes when getting solar panel pricing. Determine your needs with a solar installer and get an accurate quote.
Get as many quotes like this as possible to compare pricing. Once you have all the numbers, you can accurately pick the solar energy company that can meet your needs for the fairest price possible.
Read the Warranties
Having a great warranty is a must when you install solar panels. You’re spending a lot of money on the installation, so you don’t want to be out of luck and pay more money when something doesn’t work right.
There are standard warranties in the solar industry, so examine what they are before you hire an installer. You should have coverage for both labor and equipment.
Once you understand what standard warranties include, get copies of the warranties offered by your local options. Make sure they align with the standard or offer something better.
Look for Aftercare Support
Although solar panels don’t require much maintenance after the installation, they will require some. Initially, this will include regular cleaning to remove debris and dirt from the solar panels. Doing this will help increase sun exposure and keep your panels effective.
But as time goes on, your panels will need regular maintenance too. Ideally, you’ll work with the same company that installed your solar panels.
Ask your installer to see if they also have maintenance plans. Regular maintenance will keep your panels functional longer and ensure you get the best output.
Verify the Installation Timeline
In some cases, you may want your solar installation completed at a certain time of the year. This will take planning if you’re getting it done well ahead of time. But you have more research to do if you want a short-notice installation.
Not every installer in your area can get to your job quickly. Some companies are backed up for months — which means you may wait sometime before the job gets completed.
Verify the installation timeline before hiring a company. Try to find an installer that can meet your installation timeline.
Learn From Reviews
You shouldn’t only rely on a solar installer’s information to determine if they can handle the job. Companies will employ a great sales team to sell their products and services — and those promises don’t always align with the service you’ll receive.
Check reviews online for a solar provider before you hire them. Look for the good and bad points of a company. Decide what matters to you and use those reviews to find a company that can meet your expectations.
Well-regarded companies like Blue Raven Solar will have plenty of positive reviews to back up what they can do.
Only Hire the Best Solar Panel Company
Buying solar panels is a big decision. You’re spending thousands of dollars on a home upgrade and must follow local building codes to avoid needing to do the job again. The last thing you want is to hire solar companies that can’t handle the job and cause you to lose money.
You need to find the best solar panel company in your area if you want to avoid these problems. Follow the guidelines above when vetting solar companies to find an installer who will help you buy a solar installation that meets your power needs. Did you find this solar guide helpful and want to learn more about caring for your home? Read more home improvement guides on the blog to learn how to handle other home issues.
