8 Important Questions to Ask a Solar Installer Before Hiring

Did you know that solar use in the United States has grown by more than thirty-three percent during the past ten years?

As more homeowners and businesses turn to solar power, the number of solar installation companies has significantly increased.

But not all solar installers are created equal, and making an informed decision is crucial to ensuring a seamless, cost-effective, and long-lasting solar energy system for your property.

To make things easier for you, we've written a guide that answers common solar installation questions. Keep reading if you want to find out more about finding the right solar installer.

 

1. Is It a Local Company?

Asking if a solar installation company is local should be one of your top solar questions. Local companies are typically more familiar with the region's unique climate, geographical factors, and permitting requirements.

This knowledge enables them to design and install solar energy systems that are best suited for your specific location. Moreover, local companies can offer personalized customer service.

They are more likely to be responsive when it comes to post-installation support. By choosing a local solar installer, you can enjoy an efficient, tailor-made solar experience.

2. What Products Do You Offer?

Taking the time to ask about the solar products a company offers is crucial in your solar installation journey. This is because different solar energy systems and components can have varying levels of efficiency.

Some components also tend to be more durable and compatible than others.

By asking about the products they offer, you can assess whether a solar installation company, such as Blue Raven Solar, can provide the best options for your needs.

Understanding the available solar products will help you to make informed decisions. Also, knowing the brands and technologies offered can help you gauge the solar installer's commitment to quality.

3. How Much Power Will My Panels Generate?

By understanding the potential power output, you can assess whether the proposed system will meet your energy needs. This will ultimately help you achieve energy independence.

There are several ways to figure out how much power your home will need. Start by analyzing your past utility bills and energy usage patterns. This will provide you with valuable insights into your required power capacity.

You should also take your future energy needs into account. This is particularly important for those who plan to upgrade appliances or add electric vehicles.

Discussing these factors with your solar installer will ensure they design a system that accurately meets your energy demands.

4. How Long Will Installation Take?

The duration of a solar energy system installation can impact your daily life and schedule. This is especially true if you're a homeowner or a business with tight operational timelines.

By understanding the estimated completion time, you can prepare accordingly.

A typical residential solar installation takes between one to three days. However, the actual timeframe may vary. This might depend on the complexity of the project, weather conditions, and the permitting process.

Larger or more intricate commercial installations could take longer. Keep in mind that the timeline may also include pre-installation activities.

This could include site assessment and obtaining permits, which can add several weeks to the overall process.

Asking about the installation timeline helps you stay informed and enables you to coordinate with your solar installer more effectively. This will guarantee a smooth transition to solar energy.

5. Who Will Do the Installation?

Solar installers typically require specialized training and certification, such as the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification.

A well-trained installer should also have hands-on experience with various solar projects. They will need this type of experience in order to provide real-world knowledge and adaptability.

The number of people required for an installation depends on the project's size and complexity.

A standard residential installation might involve a team of three to six professionals. This includes electricians and solar technicians. Larger or more complex commercial installations could necessitate a bigger team.

Workers will need to have specialized roles to address specific project requirements.

By inquiring about the installation team's credentials and size, you can ensure your solar energy system is installed by experienced professionals.

6. What Types of Inverters Do You Offer?

Inverters convert the direct current (DC) produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC). The quality and type of inverter can significantly impact the overall efficiency of your solar system.

There are various types of inverters available in the market. Each type has its advantages and suitability. Some inverters are considered better in terms of efficiency, reliability, and features.

7. Where Will You Put the Solar Panels?

The best locations for solar panels are those with optimal sun exposure and minimal shading. Typically, south-facing roofs are ideal in the Northern Hemisphere. This is because they receive the most sunlight during the day.

However, east and west-facing installations can also be effective, depending on your roof layout.

8. How Much Will Solar Installation Cost?

The cost of a solar installation varies. This will depend on factors such as system size, location, and equipment quality.

It's a good idea to compare different solar companies. You should also assess financing options. This will help you determine the most cost-effective solution for your needs.

Choose the Right Solar Installer

Before choosing a solar installer, you should first know what types of questions to ask.

Take time to figure out how long the installation will take. You should also ask where they will put the solar panels. Lastly, make sure to find out how much your solar company will charge you.

Are you interested in finding out more about decreasing your home's carbon footprint? If so, make sure to check out the Home Care section of our website.