How to Choose the Best Solar Company for Your Home

Everyone wants to save the earth, from your dinner table to the biggest music festivals. However, taking action does not require carrying picket signs or chanting “Save the planet!” Instead, it can start by adopting renewable energy right at home.

 

Solar is the current greenest renewable energy source, which means harnessing the sun’s light to power your home. However, finding a reputable and trustworthy solar company can be difficult.

 

The guide below provides tips for vetting any home solar panel installation company.

Understand Your Energy Requirements

Before approaching any solar company, know your energy needs. Solar installations are not a one-size-fits-all solution. You must find a system that offers enough energy to light up your home's appliances.

 

Assessing energy consumption involves examining past energy bills to gauge the average monthly and annual electricity use. These historical usage patterns will help determine the size of the solar system to meet your current needs.

 

Other aspects you need to consider include:

• Calculating the size of the system required to offset your electrical usage
• Setting a budget for the solar project
• Exploring financing options available, such as outright purchase, leasing, or a Power Purchase Agreement(PPA)
• Considering potential changes to the home’s energy requirements in the future
• Local regulations and grid connections

 

Thoroughly understand these factors to make informed decisions throughout the solar panel installation process and maximize the benefits. Consider consulting experienced professionals to get valuable insights and guidance, depending on your circumstances.

Confirm Local Incentives

You must understand the potential discounts from the state, which the installer should help you take advantage of.

 

For instance, there is an up to 30% tax credit for the cost of the solar system from the federal government. Further, many states now have incentive programs, including property tax exemptions. Check for such incentives in your state through the local energy utility website.

Research of the Solar Company

It is never a good idea to settle on the first home solar company you find online or elsewhere. Look around and do research on the different firms near your location.

 

Here is the process for researching the best local solar company:

1. Gather recommendations and referrals from solar blogs and related forums online and make a list of the most-mentioned companies
2. Check reviews and ratings online for each company on your list
3. Visit their websites to dig more into their experience and track record
4. Verify the business licenses, certifications, and warranties using companies such as the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), Better Business Bureau (BBB), and Tesla

 

These steps will help thin your list of potentials significantly. Next, you can call and request proposals from the top five or three firms.

Evaluate Proposals

Some solar panel installation companies allow potential customers to request quotes directly from their websites. Others will require you to email them, and they will reply in a few days.

 

In each request you make, ensure you state your energy requirements and ask for a breakdown of the costs involved. Compare these quotes and pay attention to the system designs and costs. Remember to compare the warranty terms and level of maintenance services provided.

Ask Questions

Comparing quotes also involves asking each installer some questions.

 

Some questions you should consider adding to a short list include:

• If the solar system design require the entire roof or just a portion?
• If you should replace the roof shingles before panel installation?
• What is the expected time of completion of the installation process?
• What steps are required to get the permits, and how long should the process take?

 

These and more questions are a chance to evaluate their communication style and gauge whether you are comfortable with them working on your home.

Assess Expertise and Support

Installing solar in the home requires much specialized technical knowledge and skills. Choose certified professionals with the necessary expertise and experience to navigate the complicated process of designing, installing, and maintaining the system.

 

Professionals know the intricate differences between the system components, best practices, and local regulations. Engaging with the professional should always leave you more knowledgeable about the system and more assured of its safe and efficient installation.

Evaluate the After-Sales Support

The best solar companies provide excellent customer support. The firm should be available to provide support after the sale or even after installation. The average life expectancy of a solar system is about 25 years, which is a long time if you are considering a solar leasing agreement.

Final Thoughts

Contracting a home solar company is an excellent way to do your part and save the planet while saving money on utility bills. However, you need a company that will partner with you from the beginning and throughout the 25-year lifespan of your system. The tips above will help you make the right decisions.