Sustainable energy solutions are becoming increasingly vital, and harnessing the power of the sun through solar panels remains a popular choice for homeowners. Finding the right solar panel installer is critical to the success of your solar transition. Read on to discover some expert tips and considerations to help you find the right solar panel installer for your needs, so you can embrace a greener future with confidence.
Understand Your Solar Needs
Before finding the right solar panel installer for your project, it is crucial to assess your energy needs and goals. Most homeowners offset their energy expenses between 50 percent to 70 percent when installing solar, but this number goes up or down depending on your needs and the size of your system.
Begin by evaluating your energy consumption based on historical data from your electricity bills to establish your baseline energy requirements. By examining your bills, you can identify patterns and fluctuations in your energy usage which will be helpful when working with your installer.
Various online calculators and tools can help estimate the size of your solar energy system:
- U.S. Department of Energy’s PVWatts Calculator
- Google’s Project Sunroof
- Solar-Estimate
Review Local Incentives and Policies
Most states incentivize solar installation. Explore the solar incentives and rebates offered by your local government or utility companies. Options include tax credits, rebates, performance-based incentives, and grants. The specific incentives in your region can significantly reduce the overall cost of your photovoltaic installation.
Net Metering
Most states have net metering policies to further incentivize the adoption of solar energy. The policies facilitate billing arrangements between solar panel owners and their utility companies. If your system’s solar energy production exceeds your consumption, it feeds the excess energy back into the grid and you receive a credit. Many locations allow you to earn net metering credits, which lowers your utility bills.
Government Solar Incentives
Solar panels are eligible for government tax credits. Systems installed between 2023 to 2032 are eligible for a 30% credit. There is no maximum amount a homeowner can claim and expenses include:
- Solar panels or cells
- Contractor labor costs, including permitting fees and inspection costs
- Balancing equipment, including wiring, mounting equipment, and inverters
- Energy storage devices with a capacity rating of 3 kilowatt-hours or greater
- Sales tax on expenses
Research Solar Installers
Researching solar installers is crucial to finding the right company to handle your solar panel installation. Follow these four simple steps to break down the process:
1. Conduct Online Research
Start by identifying solar installation companies in your area. Use popular search engines as well as review websites like Trustpilot and Consumer Affairs to identify companies within the solar industry that have positive customer feedback, high ratings, and a proven track record. Visit the company websites of the best solar installers in your area to learn about their expertise, certifications, services, testimonials, and more.
2. Investigate Company Reputations
Check solar reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau. Watch out for recurring themes in customer feedback, both positive and negative, to gain insights into the company’s strengths and weaknesses.
Use company websites to track testimonials and case studies, but be aware that most companies only post positive reviews. Ask your friends and neighbors with solar panels for recommendations. Personal experience provides valuable insights into a company.
3. Assess Credibility
Check the certifications and credentials of the installers in your area. The industry-standard North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification demonstrates expertise in solar installation. Additional memberships such as Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) further lend to the credibility of the installer.
Experts recommend using a solar installation company with at least three years of experience. Always verify your professional’s license and insurance and evaluate their transparency and communication.
4. Request a Quote
Request a quote from the solar installer, keeping in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best option in terms of quality and service. Ask questions and ensure your installer can clearly explain their upfront prices, services, equipment, warranties, and incentives.
Watch out for large renewable energy manufacturers that use subcontractors to install their products. Be sure to read online reviews for the contractor performing your installation.
Most solar contractors offer free quotes and home inspections for solar PV installation.
Compare Quotes and Services
Compare multiple quotes and services from the best solar companies in your area. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- Installation cost: Compare total installation costs, ensuring that each quote includes all components, mounting equipment, and labor costs.
- Equipment quality: Check out the brands and model numbers of the equipment in your quote and research the reputation and performance of the solar products to ensure reliability.
- System size and energy production: Verify the size and estimated energy production of your new equipment and make sure it aligns with your long-term goals and reduces your energy bills.
- Warranties and guarantees: Look for comprehensive manufacturer warranties for your solar equipment, including solar panels and inverters and workmanship warranties. Most reputable installers offer warranties covering performance and equipment.
- Solar financing options: Compare financing options, including purchases, leases, solar loans, or power purchase agreements (PPA). Choose the best option that suits your budget and desired return on investment, or ROI.
- Timeline: Inquire about the estimated completion time for your project from each installer to eliminate delays.
- Additional services: Many professional solar companies offer additional services such as energy monitoring systems, solar batteries, and maintenance packages to enhance the value of your solar installation.
Make Your Decision
Choosing the right solar installer for your project is a significant decision, and it ultimately depends on your requirements, preferences, and the information you gather during your research.
As you evaluate the quotes, services, reviews, and more, carefully weigh all the important factors to make a decision that aligns with your goals.
FAQ About How to Find the Right Solar Panel Installer
The installation process varies depending on the size and complexity of your project. You can expect your solar project to take approximately two days to complete, with more complex installations taking up to one week.
Home solar quotes include materials and labor. The average solar panel system costs between $15,000 to $26,000 before solar tax incentives.
Most solar panels maintain maximum output and efficiency for 25 years. Longevity depends on the brand of solar panel, and service providers offer their own workmanship warranties.
Check with your panel manufacturer to understand your warranty.
High-quality solar panels reduce electricity bills by 50 percent to 70 percent, and most residential solar power systems have an average payback period ranging from five to 10 years. Well-maintained solar panels last between 25 to 30 years, leaving you 15 to 20 payment-free and reduced electricity bill years.
Find the Best Solar Panels in Your Area
Understanding your solar needs, researching reputable installers, and comparing quotes and services are all vital steps toward selecting the right solar panel installer for your home improvement project.
Going solar is a significant decision that leads to long-term energy savings and environmental benefits. If you are ready to leap into solar, let RoofGnome connect you with reputable installers in your area, so you can embark on your solar journey.
Main Image Credit: schmidt-z / Canva Pro / License
