About This Guide
As someone interested in solar, you may be in the process of choosing an installer. There are many variables to consider, of course.
Here are 8 things to keep in mind before signing any contracts:
Here are 8 things to keep in mind before signing any contracts:
How to Choose a Solar Installer for Your Home in 2018
1. Know the Details
There are a couple of basic certifications that your installer must have before you agree to work with them. At a glance:
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CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTING CERTIFICATION (CCB NUMBER) |
Ensure your installer carries an active contractor's certification and number that is valid for work in your state. |
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NABCEP CERTIFICATION |
Second, check to see if your solar installer is NABCEP Certified. |
2. Does the Installer Outsource Their Crew?
Many solar companies choose to outsource their installers. While this may allow companies to take on more projects, this can also add complexity for customers.
An outsourced crew will come to your site with their own set of practices and methods. There is also an additional level of communication that must occur between your installers and the management company that employs them.
An in-house crew, on the other hand, is more likely to stick to a company’s established standards and procedures. This makes in-house crews generally more consistent with the impression you first have of the company you are working with.
In addition, in-house crews can feel more responsive to your needs. This is because there is a direct line of communication to your point of contact.
Wondering if a company outsources their crew? – simply ask!
...And remember, many reputable companies outsource installation. If you select one that does, however, it may be wise to learn about your subcontracted crew and what to expect before they arrive at your door.
Solar companies that use an in-house crew are generally proud to introduce you to the technicians you will be working with directly. Many customers prefer to have a direct line of communication and simplicity in their on-site management dealings.
Weigh your personal needs against the pros and cons as you see them, but keep one thing consistent: know something significant about your direct installation crew.
If you do, you will have a clearer idea of what to expect when your solar installers arrive on-site.
An outsourced crew will come to your site with their own set of practices and methods. There is also an additional level of communication that must occur between your installers and the management company that employs them.
An in-house crew, on the other hand, is more likely to stick to a company’s established standards and procedures. This makes in-house crews generally more consistent with the impression you first have of the company you are working with.
In addition, in-house crews can feel more responsive to your needs. This is because there is a direct line of communication to your point of contact.
Wondering if a company outsources their crew? – simply ask!
...And remember, many reputable companies outsource installation. If you select one that does, however, it may be wise to learn about your subcontracted crew and what to expect before they arrive at your door.
Solar companies that use an in-house crew are generally proud to introduce you to the technicians you will be working with directly. Many customers prefer to have a direct line of communication and simplicity in their on-site management dealings.
Weigh your personal needs against the pros and cons as you see them, but keep one thing consistent: know something significant about your direct installation crew.
If you do, you will have a clearer idea of what to expect when your solar installers arrive on-site.
New for 2018! In-Depth, fully updated information for Oregon:
3. Require quality equipment
Going solar (solar electric) requires two main components: Solar Panels (panel points) and Inverters.
Simply put – solar panels harness the sun’s direct current (DC) and inverters turn this into usable alternating current (AC) to use in your home or office.
Do some research into what equipment your installer uses. This may give you an idea of the level of quality your installer requires.
Solar Panels
Here at Synchro for example, we use high quality SolarWorld, SunPower and LG panels. These manufacturers (and others) have proven their ability to create high quality solar products that stand the test of time.
Other panel manufacturers also build high quality panels.
Ask your possible installer candidates about the equipment they use, the warranties they offer and what sets their equipment apart. You can also ask about panel longevity and industry failure rates, though most modern, mainstream equipment has proven exceptionally reliable.
Also, keep in mind that warranty enforcement could be easier (over the 25-30 year warranty period) if you choose domestic products, products manufactured local to your region, or products manufactured by established, trusted companies with a solid customer service track record.
Inverters
Inverters are often overlooked in the discussion of equipment quality. Take some time to ask your installer candidates about the inverters they plan to use.
Here at Synchro, we use generally use SMA inverters in low-shade conditions. These are preferred due to SMA's 30-year industry experience and some of the lowest failure rates in the PV inverter industry.
SolarEdge inverters are another excellent choice when minor shade impacts a customer location. This is because SolarEdge inverters are generally around 25% more efficient when used in heavier-shade environments; when compared with other major inverter brands.
The Bottom Line
Be sure to ask good questions about your installer's equipment. Ask about failure rates, warranty enforcement and quality level before making a final decision. And remember that cheaper now may not be cheaper in the long-run.
Simply put – solar panels harness the sun’s direct current (DC) and inverters turn this into usable alternating current (AC) to use in your home or office.
Do some research into what equipment your installer uses. This may give you an idea of the level of quality your installer requires.
Solar Panels
Here at Synchro for example, we use high quality SolarWorld, SunPower and LG panels. These manufacturers (and others) have proven their ability to create high quality solar products that stand the test of time.
Other panel manufacturers also build high quality panels.
Ask your possible installer candidates about the equipment they use, the warranties they offer and what sets their equipment apart. You can also ask about panel longevity and industry failure rates, though most modern, mainstream equipment has proven exceptionally reliable.
Also, keep in mind that warranty enforcement could be easier (over the 25-30 year warranty period) if you choose domestic products, products manufactured local to your region, or products manufactured by established, trusted companies with a solid customer service track record.
Inverters
Inverters are often overlooked in the discussion of equipment quality. Take some time to ask your installer candidates about the inverters they plan to use.
Here at Synchro, we use generally use SMA inverters in low-shade conditions. These are preferred due to SMA's 30-year industry experience and some of the lowest failure rates in the PV inverter industry.
SolarEdge inverters are another excellent choice when minor shade impacts a customer location. This is because SolarEdge inverters are generally around 25% more efficient when used in heavier-shade environments; when compared with other major inverter brands.
The Bottom Line
Be sure to ask good questions about your installer's equipment. Ask about failure rates, warranty enforcement and quality level before making a final decision. And remember that cheaper now may not be cheaper in the long-run.
4. Commitment to customers
Work with an installer who is committed to you and your needs.
For most, the solar installation process is a new experience requiring effective communication from your installer.
Are your questions being answered promptly and thoroughly? Do you feel informed and empowered to make crucial decisions with your installer?
As you choose your installer, ask questions! (no question is too trivial). Be sure that you will feel informed around key decisions as you move forward in the installation process.
For most, the solar installation process is a new experience requiring effective communication from your installer.
Are your questions being answered promptly and thoroughly? Do you feel informed and empowered to make crucial decisions with your installer?
As you choose your installer, ask questions! (no question is too trivial). Be sure that you will feel informed around key decisions as you move forward in the installation process.
5. Happy Crews and Installers
A happy set of workers is far more likely to do great work and treat your home with respect and care.
Ask your installation candidates about the work environments they provide.
Are they keeping their people inspired, happy and ready to accomplish great things? Sales and design staff may have a different experience than on-site crews, so consider asking after installer welfare as well.
Are employees paid well? Do they receive respect and do they feel valued by management? What is the work environment like, exactly?
Ask your installation candidates about the work environments they provide.
Are they keeping their people inspired, happy and ready to accomplish great things? Sales and design staff may have a different experience than on-site crews, so consider asking after installer welfare as well.
Are employees paid well? Do they receive respect and do they feel valued by management? What is the work environment like, exactly?
6. Visionary mentality
The Solar Industry is constantly evolving.
Is your installer looking to what is next and keeping up with new technologies and practices or are they content with the status-quo?
Your solar company should know about recent trends, news and concerns revolving around the solar industry.
As someone who is interested in solar, you may be reading articles and learning as much as you can. Look at what companies have to say in person and online.
A visionary company will be eager to speak to any important solar industry news and integrate positive technologies and practices into their business.
Is your installer looking to what is next and keeping up with new technologies and practices or are they content with the status-quo?
Your solar company should know about recent trends, news and concerns revolving around the solar industry.
As someone who is interested in solar, you may be reading articles and learning as much as you can. Look at what companies have to say in person and online.
A visionary company will be eager to speak to any important solar industry news and integrate positive technologies and practices into their business.
7. Zero-pressure Sales
As you may know, solar installation is a big investment and commitment.
A high-pressure sales dynamic does not allow you time and focus to make crucial decisions. Look for an installer that educates and empowers rather than sells.
Give yourself time to digest information as you decide on the best direction for your unique situation. And never be afraid to ask questions if you feel the need.
A high-pressure sales dynamic does not allow you time and focus to make crucial decisions. Look for an installer that educates and empowers rather than sells.
Give yourself time to digest information as you decide on the best direction for your unique situation. And never be afraid to ask questions if you feel the need.
8. They DO NOT cut corners
Is your installer committed to quality, lasting installation or looking for a quick sell and install?
A company committed to quality will answer questions and be transparent with their entire customer journey.
What is their follow-up schedule (and will they be checking in with customers and inspecting installation)?
Educate yourself with your solar company’s process so you know what to expect before you move forward.
A company committed to quality will answer questions and be transparent with their entire customer journey.
What is their follow-up schedule (and will they be checking in with customers and inspecting installation)?
Educate yourself with your solar company’s process so you know what to expect before you move forward.
The Final Word
Your solar installation company is the backbone of your solar investment. Consider these 8 variables carefully, and never be afraid to ask questions. This is your new, high-tech home and you should feel empowered, excited and in-control throughout the sales, design and installation process.
Are You Ready to Consider a Solar Installer?
Here at Synchro Solar, we know that choosing a solar installer is a big decision. Customer service and satisfaction drives us here and we would love to openly discuss your solar opportunity with you.
Our Process
We love to start a solar conversation with a good, old-fashioned phone call. We believe in a streamlined customer experience with a personal touch, and we find that a phone conversation is a great place to start.
From a phone conversation, we can quickly determine if your location might be a good candidate for solar, if you are unsure. We then schedule a free one-hour site consultation to look at roof space, electrical, components, building structure, shading, and answer any questions you may have.
We advocate strongly for education over sales (as you may have noticed) and we do not believe in high pressure sales. We are here to help answer questions and give you the tools you need to build your own, personalized "home-of-the-future."
Synchro Solar is based in Portland, Oregon and installs across Northwestern Oregon and Southwestern Washington.
Explore with us today!
We NEVER sell or disclose your personal information
