8 Common Mistakes in Selecting Solar Installers and How to Avoid Them

Are you looking to go solar and wondering how to find the right installer? You probably already know a little bit about solar energy. You know it’s good for the environment, less expensive than other forms of energy, and can generate residual income for you.

Before you start looking into solar installers, it’s important to know a few things. You can avoid making some common mistakes when it comes to hiring professionals for solar energy.

Read on to learn about common mistakes in selecting solar installers and how to avoid them before signing a contract.

Misunderstanding Your Power Usage

One of the most common mistakes in selecting solar installers is misjudging your power usage. You want to make sure that you have a comprehensive understanding of your current power usage and potential future requirements.

It’s important to account for peak hours of usage, such as morning and evening, as well as the seasonality of usage, such as the need for additional heating or cooling during summer months or colder climates.

Doing so will help you choose a residential solar system and installer, such as Blue Raven Solar, that will meet your energy needs.

Overlooking Certification and Licensing

The last thing you want is to invest in a solar installation project only to find the crew is not trained and certified in the field.

Always take the extra step to ensure the installer has the proper certifications and licenses, such as researching and verifying credentials or consulting with your local or state government on license requirements in the area.

It’s also important to ensure the installer is properly insured in case of an unforeseen accident during the installation process. Never shy away from asking for proof of credentials, licensure, or insurance.

When selecting a solar installer, be sure to research credentials, licensing, and insurance to prevent future risks associated with a poor installation.

Ignoring Warranties and Insurance

It is important that any installer you select comes with a reasonable warranty. This will offer some protection in case of any damages or malfunctions.

Additionally, make sure that the installer is insured in case there is a workplace injury or any other liabilities. Asking for proof of up-to-date insurance is a great way to avoid this mistake.

It is of paramount importance to understand the warranty offered and verify its terms and conditions. This will protect you from any risks in the future associated with the installation of the Solar System.

Skipping Home Evaluations

Before signing a contract, you should always do research, start reading online reviews and review potential recommendations for solar installers. Regardless of the number of reviews and personal referrals you find, you should not skip the home evaluation.

Home evaluations are important to ensure the solar panel system is optimized to address your energy needs. The evaluation should allow professionals to identify potential issues related to roof conditions, available daylight hours, shading, and other factors that could determine whether or not an installer and its recommended system are appropriate for your home.

If you fail to do an evaluation, you could find yourself installing an inappropriate system that may not work for your home or address your energy needs.

Selecting an Unqualified Installation Company

Unqualified installation companies often do not have the necessary knowledge or experience to correctly install your solar system. Additionally, they may not be aware of all the local building codes and regulations.

In order to avoid such mistakes, do your research and ask questions upfront, such as: is the company qualified, experienced, and certified? Has the installer provided a detailed quote that includes all the services and components of the system?

Are the installers certified by the relevant government organizations/certifying bodies specifically for solar panel installations? Taking the time to research installers can save you from dealing with costly problems in the future.

Ultimately, an experienced and reliable solar panel installer is necessary for your peace of mind.

Neglecting to Research Equipment Quality

Neglecting to research the quality of the solar installment equipment is one of the most common mistakes when selecting solar installers. It’s important that customers are aware of what exactly the installers are installing.

Solar equipment should meet the necessary safety standards, and these standards can vary from state to state. Quality installations will help ensure the system runs safely and optimally, while poor installations may create shortages of energy and may need costly repairs.

It’s important for customers to ask questions about the brand of materials and components that will be used, such as the particular PV modules, inverters, and mounting systems that will be installed.

Skipping the Step of Obtaining Quotes From Multiple Vendors

When customers take the time to contact multiple solar installers to get bids and compare services, they often end up with the best deal and the absolute best product and service.

Without this important step, customers are more likely to end up with an installer who is more expensive, or their products and services may be less than satisfactory.

To avoid this, customers should take the time to contact a variety of solar installers and get multiple quotes, and then thoroughly compare those quotes for the best value and product.

Underestimating the Installation Labor Costs

Underestimating the installation labor costs is a common mistake when selecting solar installers. This is most likely due to the assumption that the upfront cost of installing a solar system is the only expense associated with the project.

However, the labor cost associated with the installation should also be taken into consideration. To accurately estimate the labor cost, inquire about hourly fees and the total amount of hours needed for installation.

In doing so, be sure to research reviews of solar installers to ensure a quality job and read over the fine print of the estimating paperwork. Additionally, obtain at least three different quotes from different solar installers to ensure the best price.

Taking the time to consider the full costs associated with installation will better equip an individual to select an installer who is properly qualified and has a proper cost estimate.

Avoid Mistakes in Selecting Solar Installers Now

Common mistakes in selecting solar installers can be alleviated with some simple research and planning. Look into what kind of experience your solar installers have, research their portfolio, and make sure to ask questions.

With the right installer, you can take the next step in saving money and doing your part for the environment. Take the time to find the right solar installer today!

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