Did you know there are over 10,000 solar companies found in the United States? The more solar products out in the world is never a bad thing. Unfortunately, the rise in solar power has attracted some disreputable suppliers. If you’re going to invest in solar technology for your home, then you want to make sure that you’re getting the best that money can buy.
So, how do you find the best solar company in your area? If you want to know the answer, then you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll provide you with some questions to ask any potential suppliers. This will help you separate the wheat from the chaff when it comes to solar providers. Let’s get started!
Questions to Ask a Solar Company
A solar system is a big investment. As such, you want to make sure that the supplier you’re going through knows what they’re doing. Not only that, they should be helpful, affordable, and educational. So how do you make sure that they have these qualities? Simple: by asking them the following questions. First, make a list of the local companies in your area.
Then, call them up and ask these questions as a screening process. Any solar company worth its salt will be helpful and attentive when answering them.
What Kind of Solar Panels Do You Sell?
The first thing to find out is what types of solar panels the company offers. There are three main types of solar panels on the market: polycrystalline, monocrystalline, and amorphous. Polycrystalline panels are a good option for people who have a lot of space to install panels. Monocrystalline panels are probably the most popular option.
These types of panels are efficient and require much less space than the polycrystalline option. However, they are more expensive. Amorphous panels are the most affordable option. Unfortunately, they’re not very efficient or durable. Ultimately, the right panel type for you will depend on your budget, location, and energy needs.
Still, it’s important to have some broad knowledge about all three of them. The right type of company will have a variety of different solar panel options you can choose from.
Will You Take a Look At My Roof and Provide Advice?
If a company is legitimate, then they’ll care about the size, safety, and placement of your solar system. As such, they should offer to come out to your property to examine your roof. Most panels are placed on the roof. Unfortunately, some roofs are old or in poor conditions. The last thing you want is to install an expensive solar system only to have it fall off a decaying roof.
To prevent this, the company should examine your roof to see if it can support a full system. During this time, the solar company representative should also provide advice on what you want.
There’s an important distinction between this option and a sales rep trying to sell the biggest possible system. You should make it clear how much you want to rely on solar panels. The solar company should then advise you on the best possible size to make that happen.
What Payment Plans Do You Offer?
There will typically be three payment plans you can take when it comes to solar panels. These include green energy loans, power purchasing agreements, and leases. Green energy loans allow you to own the system while paying it off over seven to eight years. Power purchasing agreements mean that you rent the solar system.
Then, you pay for any power that you use. Leasing options are similar to power purchasing agreements. However, instead of paying for what you use you pay a set amount each month. Another way you can save money is by taking advantage of the federal solar tax credit. Whatever option you choose, your solar company should be accommodating and helpful.
Do the Panels Come With Warranties?
Solar panels don’t last forever. However, most options typically come with a set of warranties to cover them during their working period. Generally, there are two different types of warranties: equipment and production. Equipment refers to the types of parts used in the solar system. If a part breaks during the warranty period, then it can be replaced.
Production refers to the efficiency of the solar panel. For example, some solar companies might guarantee that their panels stay 90% efficient for ten years, or 80% efficient for twenty-five years. So, if your solar panel starts producing less energy than stated, then the company will replace the panel. Make sure you ask specific questions about the warranties to see who offers the best one.
What Do the Local Reviews Say?
Local reviews are a great way to separate credible solar companies from sketchy ones. A quick Google search can help you find out past customer’s experiences. Do a quick browse to see what the average person’s impression was. If a company has a majority of bad reviews, then that’s a clear sign that they’re potentially a scam.
Want a Reliable Solar Company? Contact SunState Solar
We hope this article helped provide you with some good questions to ask when looking for the right solar company. As you can see, there are a lot of factors to consider when selecting a system and installer. Because of this, finding a trustworthy provider is essential. But where can you find one? If you live in the New Mexico area, then look no further than SunState Solar.
Here at SunState, we’re committed to bringing you clean, affordable power. Not only that but we’re dedicated even after the sale is made. This can be seen in our generous warranty and maintenance program. So, if you ever have a problem with your system, we’ll help you through it. If you’re ready to start enjoying the clean energy you deserve, then contact us today.