Almost everyone is new to solar, so having lots of questions is completely normal! Don’t ever hesitate to ask any questions you may have. We are always happy to make the transition into a cleaner technology as clear and simple as possible. As with any major home purchase, we always advise our customers to make sure they find out all the information they need before making a decision. Below you will find a helpful checklist of everything you should consider before you purchase any solar technology.
Checklist for Choosing a Solar Power Contractor
Look Past the Price
The least expensive bid should not be your only criteria. With a solar system, a very low price means that the solar contractors are saving money somewhere. Whether the materials are inadequate or the installation is done haphazardly, you will not be able to realize all of the great benefits of solar if your system and the installation are not up to standards. An improper installation will lead to costly repairs and other problems with your system down the road. Also, another trick some companies use is to install a system with no warranty. A solar system should hold up well after 25 years of use and you should receive a warranty at purchase guaranteeing this.
Visit the Showroom
One indicator of a successful solar business is the actual location of the store. If the business if run out of the back of a truck, with orders taken through a brochure or catalog, then this apparent lack of resources may be an indicator of the quality of the work or experience in the business. An established solar store should be able to provide a location for customers to visit when looking into solar power. With legitimate brick and motor solar businesses nearby, it may not be worth the risk of purchasing from a mobile contractor.
Reference Check
As with any professional contractor, it is important to not only ask for references, but also to call and verify the references of the solar contractors you consider. Always choose a well respected company in the community with solid references.
Ask About Insurance
The company you choose to install your solar system will need to be completely insured in order to take on the project. And don’t stop at a verbal check, ask for a copy of the proof of insurance.
Professional Memberships and Certifications
Another indicator of a successful and reputable business is one that is involved in the industry’s trade groups and organizations. This commitment to the field and investment in keeping up with the changes of the industry benefits the consumer by guaranteeing the company will know the most current solar regulations and codes to ensure you are getting the best and most up-to-date system possible. Ask the company or solar contractors about their industry involvement and any relevant certifications.
DIY Home Improvements
No matter what type of home improvement job you search, there is always a Do-It-Yourself tutorial associated with it. While some people may attempt to install an inexpensive solar system, most are deterred by the complex integration with the electricity grid, the tedious roofing installation, and the care in handling the sensitive solar materials. The professionals at a solar store are well versed in the care and handling required of these installations. Some installations are best left up to the experts.
Come Prepared with Questions and Materials
When you visit the solar store, bring along your electric utility bills for over the past year. This will help the professionals determine your solar power needs. During the visit, also ensure the solar professionals are knowledgeable about the incentives offered by the state and federal government, the methods of installation and the process of designing the solar system. Never be afraid to ask for something to be explained or to ask a question that you have about the process. An upstanding solar professional will be happy to share his knowledge with you.
We have two brick and mortar stores that serve Northeast IA, Northwest IL, and Southwest WI.
When choosing a solar store to purchase from, you will want to find a business that will be around for at least as long as your system is in operation. Because for solar this means the company must be available for over 25 years, it is important to pick a store that you trust. A brick and mortar store is just one of the indicators that a business will be around for an extended amount of time. Don’t take any chances with this major home improvement.
Our stores are not only brick and mortar establishments, but we are also proud members of the North American Solar Stores (NASS) Network. Each of the member stores have met a number of specifications to be able to hold this title. All of our solar technicians have gone through the NASS Solar Training Institute to learn about Solar PV system design and installation to help you plan the best system for your home. Another benefit of purchasing from a NASS member store is that our large network allows us to have strong buying power in the industry, which gives us savings that we can pass onto you. We work hard to stay on top of industry codes and improvements in this quickly developing profession so that we can provide the best service possible to our customers for many years to come.
