It’s no secret that switching to solar power is one of the best decisions that a homeowner can make. Benefits include lower power bills, no greenhouse gas production, and many others. But once you’ve made this decision, finding the best solar installers can prove to be a tricky task. Since it’s crucial to choose an installer that caters to your needs, here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re scanning the market.
Know Your Roof
When finding the best solar installers, it’s important to know exactly what type of solar power system is best for your roof beforehand. The system is made up of three parts: solar panels, inverters, and racking. These parts vary in size, type, and function depending on the type of roof that you have. So, it’s easy to see why knowing your roof inside and out is crucial.
Price Comes Last
Since you’ve decided on going solar, chances are you already know that it’s going to be a rather big investment. Therefore, it’s not the best choice to hire an installer strictly based on labor costs. Getting more than one quote and comparing installers based on multiple criteria is essential for making the best choice for your home. After all, finding the best solar installer doesn’t mean finding the cheapest one available.
Check the Paperwork
Legal paperwork can be boring, but it’s important when finding the best solar installers. Double-checking the business license and insurance policy of every solar installer is simply a way to make sure that your home is in safe hands. When checking, look for things like general liability insurance and electrician or home improvement contracting licenses.
Look for Experts
Since you’re making a big investment for your home, you obviously want an expert to get the job done. You should always check for certifications of expertise when looking for a solar installer. The NABCEP’s Solar PV Installation Professional Certification is one way to know that you’re in good hands. The company you choose should have at least one NABCEP-certified professional on its team.
Trust the Reviews
Previous customers can be a good source of information when it comes to an installer’s work. Look for online reviews of each company you’re considering, and check both the positive and negative comments. Make sure your sources are trustworthy and genuine, and not paid promotions. You can start by checking on Better Business Bureau, and then on each company’s own website.
Buy, Don’t Rent
Sometimes, companies will try to convince you to rent a solar power system instead of buying one. Some providers may try to get you to sign solar leases or power purchase agreements. This is never a good option. Renting the system through a lease can increase your yearly electricity cost, and solar power systems are supposed to do the exact opposite. Check the options that each provider offers, and go for buying the system instead of renting it. It’s a bigger investment, but it’s worth every penny.
Look for Extended Customer Support
Like any long-term investment, it’s good to know that if any problems arise, your contractor is there to help you. So it’s important that you choose an installer that is interested in more than just their own profit. Look for a company that will give you the best advice for installing your solar power system, offers a long warranty, and stays in touch with you.
Also, don’t fall for companies that instantly tell you that your home is perfectly fit for a solar system. Factors like the improper shape, size, or slope of the roof, as well as excessive shade caused by trees could make your home less solar-friendly. The installers that mention these aspects are usually the most trustworthy.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, finding the best solar installers requires quite a bit of research. We hope that the above-mentioned tips will help you make the best choice. If you’re looking for even more convenience, Atlantic Key Energy checks every box outlined in this article. Contact us at any time for a free quote and the best solar system solutions, and we’ll make sure you get the quality service that you deserve!
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