Considering eliminating your electric bill by going solar? Much thought and consideration should go into your process of picking a solar contractor for your property. While a solar installation is a simple task for seasoned contractors, some companies cut corners which can be disastrous in the short-term and long-term for the new solar producer.
There are various questions a property owner should think about when deciding to go solar, ranging from budget to location of the solar system to where the solar panels are made. Here are some tips to ensure your contractor is qualified, using the best materials and will guarantee the production promised to you.
Find out what's happening in Fountain Valleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Here are a few useful tips when choosing a solar contractor:
Find out what's happening in Fountain Valleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
1. What type of training does the solar contracting firm have and how many years of experience do they have?
2. Does your solar contractor outsource their crew? If so, there could be a disconnect between your project engineering and installation.
3. What are the warranty specifics? Has that solar contractor been in business long enough for you to be confident they’ll still be there when it’s time to honor those warranties?
4. Credible companies will educate you on solar, not push you into it.
5. Check the contractor’s rating with the Better Business Bureau and on Angie’s List. Reading reviews from current clients can provide incite about the company’s quality and service.
6. Ask for the specifics of the service agreements and performance guarantees. What happens if your system doesn’t produce what they say you’re going to produce?
7. Ensure the contractor is certified with the Contractors State License Board and validate the company’s years in business
8. Get three bids and compare the companies, taking everything above into consideration when thoroughly evaluating the bids.
Interested in learning more about solar? Local solar company, Sullivan Solar Power, is currently administering the Orange County Solar Program, which is a countywide cash-back solar incentive program for all property owners in Orange County. This Saturday May 31st from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. there will be a free solar workshop at the Fountain Valley Senior Center. This one hour presentation will cover solar technology, Federal tax credits, local case studies and the Orange County Solar Program incentives. To RSVP please call 1.800.SULLIVAN or email Erin.Lannon@SullivanSolarPower.com.