As a homeowner, are you worried about rising energy costs? Have you heard about residential solar companies and are thinking about switching to one?
Whether you’re just beginning to look for a solar company or you’re performing due diligence before choosing one, you must look into the company you hire. After all, you’ll be working together for years!
With this in mind, this article will explore what a reputable solar company looks like. It will then explain how to choose the best solar company for your home.
Let’s get started!
Solar Panel Installation
Solar companies provide professional advice and services to ensure the residential home’s solar panel installation is of the highest quality possible. They typically offer consultations and site assessments to determine the best location, size, and number of solar panels for the home’s energy needs. They also work closely with local regulatory agencies and electricians to meet all necessary paperwork and wiring requirements.
They also offer valuable services such as system maintenance and comprehensive installation warranty coverage. Learn more information today to get started with harnessing the sun’s power.
Site Assessment
A site assessment involves a thorough inspection of your home or other property to determine whether solar panels can be safely and effectively installed. This includes assessing:
- the type of roof
- the roof pitch
- the amount of sun exposure
- the direction of the roof
- any other obstacles
It’s important to make sure that the surrounding structures are compatible with the solar panels that will be installed. After the assessment, the solar company will make a proposal that outlines the scope of its work, potential costs, the expected timeline, and other related details that need to be taken into consideration.
System Design and Customization
Many solar companies offer systems that are specifically tailored to your home, which can increase efficiency. It is important to make sure that the system is designed correctly, as it can have a large impact on the overall efficiency of the system. Some companies offer customization of their systems with things such as:
- additional panels
- inverters
- control systems
It is important to make sure that these features are high quality and accurately designed to meet your unique needs.
Permitting and Paperwork
When it comes to the paperwork and permitting process for a residential solar installation, there are many steps to follow. First, the solar company will need to file an application for a permit to install the solar system. Most solar companies have a full-time staff dedicated to handling paperwork and permits.
Next, the local authorities will need to review the application and make sure that the property is safe for a solar system. The permitting process can take weeks or even months. Once the permit is granted, the solar company can begin its work, which usually involves pouring a concrete foundation or mounting the solar panels onto the roof of the home.
Financing Options
One of the most important questions to consider is what type of financing options are available. Most companies will offer a solar financing program to help offset the upfront cost of purchasing a solar energy system. These financing options usually include a loan with low-interest rates and a lease option that allows you to enjoy lower monthly expenses.
It’s important to compare different financing options to find the best deals. You should also ask about their customer service policies and system warranties, as it’s important to purchase a system from a company you can trust.
Incentive and Rebate Assistance
Incentives help reduce the upfront cost of solar installations while also making renewable energy more viable and cost-effective for homeowners. Rebates come in the form of:
- cashback or tax credits
- either from the federal government
- state governments
- local municipalities
Most solar power providers offer to purchase, lease, and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) financing options, and many include incentive and rebate assistance with each of these services. Incentives such as energy bill savings, federal and local tax credits, or rebates. Solar companies can also assist homeowners in determining whether their homes are eligible for available rebates and financial incentives.
Equipment Selection
A good solar company will be able to provide you with all the necessary information regarding the type of solar technology and the type of equipment that they will be using. They should be able to explain the benefits of each technology, as well as how it works with the rest of the system.
They should provide you with a list of the top brands and manufacturers available to purchase the equipment necessary for your home. When looking into a residential solar company, make sure that they are providing you with top-of-the-line equipment and provide you with a warranty or guarantee that they stand behind the products that they are selling.
System Monitoring and Maintenance
System monitoring is a critical component in making sure residential solar systems are running efficiently and in good condition. A quality residential solar company will monitor the performance of the system, including energy production and use, to detect any potential problems or defects early on. They can also monitor the system’s completion to ensure it is set up and functioning correctly.
Maintenance is an integral part of an active solar system; it allows the system to be as efficient and effective as possible. Residential solar companies will:
- inspect and clean panels
- check for damage
- inspect the wiring
- flush out pipes
- necessary repairs or adjustments
Furthermore, these companies can proactively advise on any maintenance needs or safety precautions. They provide a comprehensive service that includes both system monitoring and maintenance, ensuring that the most efficient and reliable service is provided to homeowners.
Warranties and Support
Warranties vary by company, so it is important to understand the length and provisions available. Some warranties may cover the entire system or individual components and may even include installation. Customers should take the time to read over a warranty to ensure it meets their needs.
Aside from warranties, many residential solar companies also offer tech support or customer service to help customers with the day-to-day operation and maintenance of their solar systems. This support may come in the form of:
- operating manuals
- online resources
- even phone support
This is to answer any questions.
Energy Storage Solutions
By coupling energy storage solutions with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, they are able to provide homeowners with the power they need on demand and throughout the course of the day. Homeowners can compare solar products and Solar PV solutions side-by-side to determine what best meets their needs.
Solar System Upgrades
They have the expertise to provide evaluation and troubleshooting of residential and commercial solar systems. They are knowledgeable of the process necessary to upgrade existing systems, which can include replacing old and faulty components with newer and improved versions. Solar companies can also upgrade the system design to meet the customer’s current and future needs.
These upgrades, such as:
- improved efficiency and operation
- help improve energy performance
Solar companies are also able to provide the customer with practical advice, which can help them employ the most effective and cost-efficient solar system upgrades. In addition, solar companies are knowledgeable in evaluating the risks and costs associated with system upgrades, which can be very beneficial for any customer considering making an improvement.
Energy Efficiency Recommendations
They can help identify the best areas or models of solar panel systems and provide an expert analysis of the payoff based on factors like the orientation of the home, sunlight availability, and specific appliances in use. Recommendations from a residential solar company may include the following:
- use of efficient lighting fixtures
- upgrading to Energy Star appliances
- use of green options
Further, residential solar company representatives often provide educational advice on incentivizing methods, such as tax credits and deductions, offering additional cost savings for energy-efficient upgrades.
Environmental Impact
The use of solar energy not only reduces carbon emissions, it also reduces the use of fossil fuels, which contributes to global warming and other environmental issues. Solar panels increase energy efficiency and decrease energy costs. Solar energy has the potential for financial and ecological rewards for your home.
Solar companies can provide advice about the best system for your home, such as types of panels, inverters, and other components. Licensed professionals can install and maintain your system, making sure that it continues to operate efficiently. In addition to reducing your environmental footprint, residential solar companies can help combat rising electricity costs and introduce additional sources of renewable energy with solar systems.
Industry Certifications and Licenses
Industry certifications and licenses are an important factor when considering a residential solar company. This involves the company and technicians being qualified, experienced, and having a good track record. Each state may have different requirements, but typically the company should have proper:
- business licenses
- certifications from the (NABCEP)
- certifications for solar-related components
For investors, knowledge of the industry certifications and licenses of the residential solar companies helps to evaluate the credibility, safety, and quality of the components they use and the services they provide. The NABCEP also provides consumers with a definition of what should be expected from a solar installation.
Reputation and Reviews
Prospective customers should review the company’s ratings on various consumer complaint websites, such as the:
- Better Business Bureau
- Federal Trade Commission
It is important to look out for customer reviews online and inquire about customer references. A positive reputation will indicate that a residential solar company has been reliable and taken good care of its customers in the past. High customer testimonials and ratings from previous customers can also give you insight into the company’s ability to deliver quality service.
Multiple Quotes and Comparisons
These quotes should provide an overview of the company, its services, the proposed system, options for payment, estimated savings, and ongoing support. Comparing system quotes and the companies involved will allow customers to find the best value for their money.
It is important for customers to research the costs associated with installing and maintaining a solar system, as well as discuss the terms and conditions involved with any solar financing arrangement.
Long-Term Savings and Return on Investment
Residential Solar Companies cost from around $15,000 to $30,000, depending on the size and type of system. Metering and grid connection costs are also added on top of the installed system costs. Solar systems can provide long-term savings over a relatively short payback period, as electricity produced can be used to lower or eliminate utility bills.
People often see a return on their investment within three to seven years, depending on their location, system size, and the cost of their electricity. Many utility companies also offer rebates and other incentives to help reduce the cost of solar installation. Solar systems have very low ongoing maintenance costs, and they can last for up to 25 years with regular maintenance and cleaning.
Choosing The Best Residential Solar Companies
Residential solar companies offer homeowners the opportunity to save energy and money by switching to clean energy. With so many companies to choose from, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each one. Researching and comparing companies is the key to choosing the best one. Contact a reliable residential solar company today to start saving!
If you enjoyed this article about everything you need to know about solar companies, be sure to check out the rest of our blog. We have helpful articles on a variety of topics that everyone can enjoy!
