Finding an affordable solar installer is a hassle. Solar energy is integral to the future; a home can save $10,000-$30,000 for a lifetime. But there’s so much choice, how can you pick a good one?
Of course, it’s not only about price. As with any significant purchase, you must research and think carefully before committing to the right company for your needs. There are many companies like EcoGen America offering solar panel installation services that are cost-effective and follow local regulations. Read to learn how to find the best solar installers near me.
Verify their License and Certification
Solar installers should have a state license, which means they have passed an exam and demonstrated knowledge of solar panels. Also, check for certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). This certification shows that the installer has completed an intensive training program about installing solar panels.
Certification is voluntary, but it’s a great way to know that your installer is up-to-date on the latest technology. It also means they’ve had to prove their knowledge to get their certification. If you want to ensure your installer has these credentials, ask for proof before signing contracts or paying any deposits!
Review their Qualifications and References
After your meeting has concluded and questions answered, it’s time to review the qualifications and references of these potential installers.
It means checking out their website, reading reviews left by previous customers, and even calling some of their previous clients to ask how things went after their solar installation process was complete.
Reviews help you determine if a company is trustworthy and reliable or if it might do something shady. Also, it gives you insight into how companies deal with customers. Some companies will try to convince you that they are the best, but reading reviews will show you what other customers think about their experience with that company. You can better understand what kind of service they provide and how they handle complaints or problems.
Compare and Contrast the Services
When looking for a solar installer, it might tempt you to go with the first company you see. While this is sometimes a good idea, there are better ways. Consider comparing and contrasting multiple solar installation companies.
You can compare solar installation companies by the size of their operation, how long they’ve been in operation and what kind of service they provide. Compare prices by installation and equipment costs to find the best deal for your needs.
In addition to comparing these things, you may want to ask about warranties on installations and maintenance plans for existing systems. Some companies offer lifetime warranties on their installations, while others only offer one-year warranties on parts and labor costs.
Check Costs and Credits
The factors that affect cost include the installation, company size, and location. Some companies offer discounts for large installations or specific areas, so check this before making a final decision.
If you’re eligible for any federal or state tax credits, you must find out if any of your chosen local solar installers offer them. It helps reduce the overall cost of your installation by thousands of dollars! You should expect to pay between $3 and $5 per watt for a home system.
You can purchase solar panels in cash, installments, or loans. Choose wisely, as you’ll have to explain your choices to the installer before you know if they’ll accept them. Some installers might not take your mode of payment.
Set-up Physical Meeting
Once you’ve found a few companies that -could fit your needs, set up a time to meet with them. This meeting should be as much about you learning what they can do for you as it is about them learning what you need from them. You should also be taking notes during this meeting so that if any of your questions are unanswered or other concerns arise, you can follow up with them later.
Ask questions about the company’s credentials and experience during this meeting. You want to ensure they have been in business for at least five years without any negative reviews or customer complaints. You also want to ensure that they have worked with customers with similar needs as yours (i.e., residential vs commercial).
Finding the best local solar installers near you can ensure that your solar investment is safe and can bring you the best returns. Depending on your location and what kind of home or business you have, a local installer can offer various benefits over larger companies. When picking a company, consider the critical factors to you in a solar company and compare them to the services of each potential provider.