March 19, 2019
Before you go solar, you want to get as much information from your potential solar installer as possible. There are tonnes of different questions you could ask the solar company, but let’s take a look at 9 key questions you will need the answers to. Once you’re equipped with this knowledge, you’ll be in good stead to delve a little deeper and begin to move forward with the project once you’re satisfied. These questions should be no problem for any reputable solar installer. If you’ve found the right company, they’ll be glad to help. If they’re reluctant to provide answers, well, maybe it’s time to look elsewhere.
#1 - Are you NABCEP certified?
A NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certification is the gold standard for solar companies in the United States. This certification ensures that the company has the necessary experience, training, and understanding of best solar practices. It also ensures that the installation will meet strict standards of quality and professionalism.
#2 - How long have you been in business?
This might sound a bit unfair to newer companies seeking to build a reputation, but a solar panel installer with a great track record of top-quality installations across a number of years definitely instills a certain level of confidence. Of course, there are plenty of younger business capable of doing a great job, but an experienced company just gives that extra layer of trust.
#3 - Do you use subcontractors?
Different companies will have different approaches to the actual installation of the system, using either their own contractors, outside subcontractors, or, very commonly, a combination of both. No approach is inherently better, and a company exclusively using its own contractors is by no means an instant guarantee of quality. Just be sure to find out who is taking care of the install itself and make sure they’re properly accredited.
#4 - Who manufactures the products?
Find out exactly what panels are going up on your roof and what inverter is going to be used as part of your solar system. It can be a good idea to get the exact make and model numbers so you can look the products up online and see what other solar customers think. This can also be a good time to ask about manufacturer warranty for the panels and other equipment being installed as part of your solar system.
#5 - Can you provide references? Or photos of past installations?
In some cases, you may be fortunate enough to have a friend, neighbor, or family member who has used the solar company before. If so, you can just ask them how it went and take a look at their system. For most, however, this probably isn’t the case. If so, just ask your solar panel installer to see some of their past installations. You could even ask for a reference for an old customer who got the same kind of installation as you, to get a real sense of the process.
#6 - How much money will I save?
It’s probably fair to say that the huge savings arising from solar are the biggest factor in going solar for most people. Therefore, it makes sense to get the details. Considering the lifespan of your system, just how much money can you expect to save over time? It’s a good idea to look at potential savings over the long-term, take lots of factors into account, and keep in mind the kind of financing approach you’re taking in relation to these potential savings.
#7 - How much will I pay right now?
Again, this question is somewhat dependent on your financing approach, and sits as part of the interdependent trio of savings, payment, and financing. Generally, paying more upfront leads to greater savings in the long run. This is part of the reason why we always recommend purchasing your system outright over leasing it. Of course, this may not be viable for everyone, so don’t be discouraged. Just be clear about payment and the savings involved.
#8 - How can I finance this?
It’s no use talking about savings and upfront payments unless you explore your financing options as well. Different companies work with different financial institutions to offer all kinds of payment options. Before taking the plunge, make sure your solar panel installer is offering the kind of loan options that you’re happy with, and that you understand fully. If you need them to explain it a few times, or even visit your home in person to go over things, then they should be happy to do this. Also, be sure that your payment plan takes full advantage of all the incentives and rebates offered to solar customers in your state and across the US.
#9 - Will this increase the value of my property?
This one is pretty straightforward, but there’s no harm in getting your answer from an expert! Simply put, if you purchase a solar system outright, it will increase the value of your property. Many studies have shown that not only will a solar system increase property value, but it will result in the property selling quicker when it does go on the market.
At YSG Solar, we’re happy to answer all these questions and more. So contact us today, or call the office at 212.389.9215.
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By Shane Croghan
Sources:
https://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/9-questions-to-ask-before-hiring-a-solar-installer
https://news.energysage.com/questions-ask-solar-panel-installer/
https://www.gearbrain.com/solar-power-installer-questions-ask-1793549989.html
Featured Image Source Kristian Buus / 1010 Climate Action [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
