Top 5 Tips on Choosing a Solar Service for Homes

According to recent research, the average solar installation will cost around $20,000, compared to $40,000 ten years ago.

When you’re spending that kind of money on a home improvement project, you don’t want to risk hiring a fly-by-night operator to install your system.

Check out these top tips for choosing a solar service to help you get started on your solar journey.

1. Table of Contents

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   Choosing a Solar Service Based on Reputation

The first step in hiring any contractor is to ask family, friends, and neighbors for recommendations. If nobody you know has switched on to the benefits of going solar yet, you can try reading online reviews about companies in your area.

It’s important to look at certifications too. You must work with a company that’s licensed for installing solar panels within your state and nationally. NABCEP certifications indicate the highest level of competency nationally.

After certifications and glowing recommendations, solar installation experience is the next most important criterion. Solar technology is relatively new, but the longer a company has been in business the better.

2. Ask About Extra Services

Once you’ve discovered the best solar installers in your area, get in touch with them to discuss your installation. Many contractors offer free consultations to determine the best fit for your home.

Others may offer cost-saving extras like solar geysers, and pool heaters designed for solar use. These innovations can help reduce the number of panels needed to power your home.

3. Get Multiple Quotes

Getting quotes from your top contenders plays a major role in choosing the best provider according to your budget. At this time, you can also find answers to all those niggling questions, like:

• How does payment work?
• What does the installation include?
• Do you offer after-sales service?

Don’t automatically choose the cheapest quotation. Higher prices could indicate better-quality, more efficient solar panels or longer warranties.

4. Compare Warranties

Solar panels are durable, simple equipment. They should last for at least 20 years when properly installed.

Most solar installers offer warranties that include parts and labor. In the unlikely event something goes wrong during installation, a labor warranty covers you against these costs.

Part warranties cover defects in replacement items like inverters, batteries, and panels.

5. Find Out About Financing Options

Due to the high costs of solar, you’re likely going to need a little help paying for the installation. Most solar companies offer attractive financing packages to help you pay off these costs.

These include leasing, power purchase agreements with a local energy provider, and solar loans. If you can afford a cash payment for your installation, find out whether the installer accepts a deposit and when they’ll expect you to pay the balance.

Doing The Right Thing For Your Home

Solar brings enormous cost savings as well as environmental benefits. Thanks to this, a solar installation can also increase the value of your home.

Thanks to these tips on choosing a solar service, you could be well on your way to enjoying these benefits of solar energy without any concerns.

Would you like some more handy advice on matters of the home? Browse our website at your leisure.