Solar power is a big investment. Not only do you have to pay for the panels themselves, but you also have to pay for installation and ongoing maintenance. That’s why it is critical to do your research before buying solar panels for your home.
To help you out, we’ve put together a list of 10 questions you should ask a solar installer before making your purchase.
What to Ask Your Solar Power Contractor
Sometimes, we don’t know what to ask solar contractors during the meeting. This leads to us generally agreeing with what they are saying, especially regarding technical stuff. Even if the sales pitch sounds great, it is important not to sign on the dotted line until you have asked these ten critical questions:
1. What experience do you have with installing solar panels?
When interviewing solar installers or solar companies, be sure to ask about their experience. Solar panels are a major investment, so you want to be sure that the installer you choose has a lot of experience installing them successfully. Choose the one that will give you exactly what you need for no extra cost.
2. How long will the installation process take?
Installing solar panels can take a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the size and complexity of the system. Be sure to ask your contractor or installer how long the installation will take, so you know what to expect.
3. How much will install solar panels on my home cost?
Installing solar panels can be expensive, but many government and state-sponsored programs offer financial incentives to help offset the cost. In addition, many electrical companies offer discount electricity rates for customers who have installed solar panels. Be sure to ask your preferred installer about the various incentives and discounts available in your area.
Solar panels typically can return your investment within 5-10 years, depending on the size and complexity of the system, the amount of sunlight your home receives, and local electricity rates.
When talking to a solar installer, it is important to know the cost to prepare your budget.
4. Do you offer financing options?
Financing options are another crucial detail you need to know when talking to a solar installer. Some solar companies offer in-house financing, while others work with third-party lenders. Various financing options are available, so ask your installer about their options.
5. What kind of maintenance do solar panels require?
Solar panels require very little maintenance. Once installed, you only need to check them monthly to ensure they’re clean and debris-free. You should also check the inverter and batteries every few months to ensure they function properly. If something goes wrong, most solar companies offer 24/7 customer service to help you troubleshoot the issue.
Solar energy is a great way to eliminate your electricity bill and help the environment simultaneously. Before making your purchase, ask your solar installer this question to give you an idea of what to do with the panels and other components once installed.
6. How long do solar panels typically last?
Solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25-40 years. However, the sunlight your home receives and the type of solar panel you choose will affect how long they last. Talk to your contractor or installer about the expected lifespan of the solar panels you are considering.
7. Are any rebates or tax credits available for purchasing solar panels?
Many state and federal governments offer tax credits and rebates for purchasing solar panels. In addition, many electrical companies offer discounts to customers with solar panels installed. Be sure to ask your solar power installer about the various incentives available in your area.
Solar panels can return your investment within 5-10 years, depending on the size and complexity of the system, the amount of sunlight your home receives, and local electricity rates.
Installing solar panels can be expensive, but many government and state-sponsored programs offer financial incentives to help offset the cost. In addition, many electrical companies offer discount electricity rates for customers who have installed solar panels.
Financing options are another crucial detail you need to know when talking to a solar installer. Some solar companies offer in-house financing, while others work with third-party lenders. Various financing options are available, so ask your installer about their options.
8. Will installing solar panels increase the value of my home?
This query has no exact answer because the value of a home with solar panels will differ depending on your home’s location and market conditions. However, many studies have shown that homes with solar panels sell for more than homes without them.
Solar panels are an ideal way to cut back costs on your electricity bill and help the environment simultaneously. Before making your purchase, discuss this with your solar installer to know what to expect.
9. Do you provide your clients a warranty on your solar products and services?
A solar panel warranty typically guarantees that the solar panel will produce a certain energy level for a set number of years. Most warranties also cover damage to the solar panel, such as weather-related damage or defects in manufacturing.
When purchasing a solar panel system, ask about the warranty information. A good solar installer will be happy to review the warranty details with you.
10. Can you give me references from other satisfied customers?
Solar installers have met many people in the scope of their business, most of which must be satisfied with their work. Asking them to refer to satisfied customers will help you gauge their quality of work.
When you’ve narrowed down your choices for a solar installer, ask each one for references from satisfied customers. These references will help you understand the quality of work you can expect from them.
Bottom Line
Installing solar power for your home is not as easy as it sounds. There are plenty of preparations and considerations, and one of these preparations is choosing the right solar contractor and asking the right questions.
Before signing on the dotted line with a solar contractor, ask these important questions. This way, you can prepare not only your budget but your expectations as well. And be sure to get the answers in writing!
By asking these questions, you can be sure that you are making the best decision for your home or business.
Do you have questions about solar power? Visit mastersolarpower.com to learn more!
