If you want to help save the planet and save on your energy bill, solar energy is a great way. Paying for the panels and installation does represent a big investment, but you can save between $10,000 – $30,000 over the lifetime of the panels.
If you’re going to make that investment, you want to make sure the job is done right. That means choosing a solar company you can trust. How do you choose? What factors should you consider?
Here are 4 tips to help you make the best decision.
1. Reputation of the Solar Company
The reputation of the solar panel installation company is perhaps the most important factor. Make sure to investigate any company you’re considering. There are a few ways you can do this.
- Check the reviews on their website
- Check online review sites
- Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints against the company
- Ask your friends and family
- Look on the company’s social media pages
You can also look on job sites like Glassdoor or Indeed. It might seem strange, but you can get a real feel for a company based on their job ads.
2. Experience and Certifications
How long has the company been in business? You want someone who’s been around a while to make sure they have a solid history of good customer service and results.
You also want to ensure the company has all the proper insurance and certifications from the leading solar industry organization, including NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) and SEI (Solar Energy International).
3. Warranty and Guarantees
Some solar panels can last as long as 25-30 years. Inverters come with 10, 12, 15, 20, or 25-year warranties. Whatever type of panel you buy, ensure the company offers warranties that will guarantee the work and the entire energy production system. Make sure you ask and get it in writing so that you won’t be on the hook is something goes wrong with your panels or solar equipment.
4. Go Local
It’s always a good idea to choose a local solar panel installer. For one thing, the company will know more about local regulations and electrical codes. You do not want to be guilty of a code violation, which can come with a hefty fee and require you to pay for the job to be done again.
It will also make things easier if your panels ever need service or repairs. To find solar companies near me, look on Google or your local yellow pages.
Save Energy. Save the World.
Is it time to make the leap to getting energy from the sun? You need the right solar company to install solar panels. What’s the best way to do that? Use these four tips to help ensure you find the right team to help your energy dreams come true.
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