Before installing solar panels, carefully consider your options. Finding a trustworthy solar power business with affordable services and the right experience can be challenging.
The hardest part of the process is choosing the right solar installer for your needs, which requires careful evaluation. Selecting a solar provider from the numerous options available in your country can be overwhelming.
So how to choose a solar company?
Before we get to that, let’s first learn why you need a solar contractor in the first place.
Why hire a local solar panel installer?
Finding the best professionals to help you with your solar panel installation is crucial, as this is a significant financial commitment.
Because of their familiarity with the location, the climate, and other considerations, local installers are often more flexible and affordable.
Local solar panel installers also provide better deals than their national counterparts because they don’t have to cover the exact overhead costs.
Many solar panel installation options exist, from major national corporations to one-person operations. While both options have advantages and disadvantages, hiring a firm with local knowledge in your area is almost always the best choice.
Because of their extensive operations and vast workforces, large businesses inevitably have the highest rates and busiest schedules.
And this could result in a significant overcharge and a wait time of many months for the installation. On the other hand, you may form a small business with only yourself and another person.
Although you may receive more individualised attention, the downside is that they may need to be equipped to handle more extensive or more time-consuming jobs.
How to Choose a Solar Company
1. Check out your local solar incentives
An installer can assist you in learning about and qualifying for discounts offered in your state. The UK government offers programs such as ECO4, Home Upgrade Grant, and Sustainable Energy Grant (SEG) to support energy-saving measures. Visit your energy provider’s website or contact a reliable solar energy business to learn about rebates available in your state.
2. Look for Reviews and Complaints
Reviewing their online ratings and complaints is crucial when searching for a solar installer. Websites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, Google, Solar Reviews, and EnergySage provide this information. These reviews offer insight into the installer’s reputation and reliability. Negative reviews may indicate unprofessional behaviour. If you find many clients unhappy, it may be time to look for a new installer.
3. Talk to People with Solar Panels
If you know someone who has installed solar panels, ask them about their experience with the company they used. Talking to past customers and seeing their finished projects can provide valuable insight.
Here are some questions:
- Were you comfortable asking questions during installation?
- Did everything go smoothly, or were there any issues?
- How quickly did the installer respond to your concerns?
- Were you satisfied with how everything was handled?
- Where did you find the installer?
4. Consider the Level of Experience
Look for a company with at least five years of experience in solar or a related field. Hire a professional installer with relevant work experience and ask questions to know more about their expertise.
Find out about the number of solar panels installed, the modules they use and why, the solar incentives, and the warranty details in case of any system or component issues.
5. Verify their Licenses and Certifications
Check licenses, certifications, and insurance to ensure a solar installer is reliable. A licensed and insured company should be certified to work on electrical wiring and system parts.
A legit solar installer should have a general, electrical, home improvement, and home performance contracting license. If you need clarification, ask the company about their licensing framework; they should be able to direct you to the local laws they adhere to.
6. Check their Solar Warranties and Potential Cost Savings
Finally, when choosing a solar panel warranty, choosing a company with a proven track record and a warranty lasting at least 10-25 years is crucial. Additionally, ask your contractor about potential savings on your electricity bill based on whether you purchase, finance, or lease the panels.
The Solar Panel Installer You Can Trust
Now you know how to choose a solar company that can give you the best deal possible and handle all the legwork. One that can guarantee to match or beat any comparable quote without obligation.
One great example of a solar contractor in Doncaster is ECOfootprint Limited. They have a fully licensed solar installer ready to give expert advice. Since 2011, the company has offered affordable and dependable renewable energy solutions, including solar and heat pump installations.
They specialise in renewable energy systems like solar panels, solar batteries, and air-source heat pumps. Explore their site and learn more about our many helpful options.