Choosing A Solar Installer

Going solar is a big decision for your family, and choosing a solar installer that is going to take care of you is so essential. You may want to save money on electric bills, reduce dependence on the grid, or lower your carbon footprint. But regardless of your motivation, there are things to look for in a solar installer that will save you a headache as the process of going solar takes shape.

Choose A Local Solar Installer

First, you should find a local company to work with. A drawback of working with a large national installer can be extended delays when it comes to scheduling the installation and especially repairs. Choosing a local solar installer gives you have peace of mind knowing they aren’t far away if there is ever service needed on your system. Plus each local municipality has different permitting and building code standards, and they can change frequently. Good local installers develop a strong relationship with their local permitting offices and inspectors. This behind-the-scenes detail can help your solar installation go smooth and avoid delays caused by updates in local codes or utility provider requirements.

Check Out Reviews 

This seems like a no-brainer, but once you choose a local solar installer, check out their reviews. Read testimonies from real people who have experienced their sales process and customer service. See how far back the reviews go and look at their experience and years of service. An unfortunate problem in the solar industry has been the explosion of fly-by-night solar companies that hook homeowners with ridiculously low prices. They subcontract the work, which is usually shoddy, and then are nowhere to be found in a year. 

If you have a solar installer in mind, they should have a history on Yelp, Google Reviews, or Facebook. Look carefully at the comments, and remember that every company has negative reviews online. What you should be looking for is a trend. Reputable companies no matter what industry you’re in try to learn to form their mistakes and correct them, but if you see complaints about the same issue over and over again it should raise some red flags.      

Avoid Subcontractors 

As mentioned before some solar companies will use subcontractors throughout most stages of the installation project. But choosing a solar installer with an in-house team ensures they will be intimately familiar with every step of the project - from the design, installation, monitoring, and maintenance of your home solar system. 

Subcontractors usually will not have the certifications or experience that a full-service solar installer can offer. Highly experienced solar installers will be properly trained in proper wire management and installation techniques that protect your solar investment and your roof. A good professional solar company should also customize your home’s solar design and use only quality solar panels that offer a solid warranty. 

I’ve been in the solar industry for over a decade now and believe me I’ve seen it all. There’s so much about the industry and what to avoid that I’m happy to share with family and friends as they decide to go solar. If you have any questions about choosing a solar installer in Southern California (or elsewhere) or about solar in general feel free to contact me, I look forward to helping you if I can.

- Adam