Over the past decade, solar energy has experienced significant growth and technological advancements. Increasing awareness of eco-friendly solutions has fueled the popularity of installing solar panels.
The decreasing installation costs and increasing availability of government incentives have further enhanced the attractiveness of solar systems in cities worldwide.
So, if you’re planning to have solar panels installed in your house, it’s important to know where to find the right installers for the job. These four tips should help you out:
Check their License
When choosing between vendors, it’s important to request a North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certificate.
In case you’re wondering, NABCEP is a nationally recognized certification program, and having this accreditation indicates expertise in the field. This step is crucial to avoid unauthorized installers who might take advantage of customers and offer subpar service.
To establish trust, make sure that your chosen installer possesses valid certifications. Additionally, verify whether they hold the required electrical or roofing licenses for the specific work your home needs. This thorough evaluation helps guarantee quality and professionalism in the installation process.
Learn about the Associated Costs
The cost of a solar electric system is measured in dollars per watt, with the average residential system currently ranging from $3 to $5 per watt. This translates to an estimated cost of $15,000 to $25,000 for an average 5-kW residential system before factoring in tax credits or incentives.
With a tax credit, you can directly reduce the amount of income tax owed. For instance, a $1,000 federal tax credit results in a $1,000 reduction in federal income taxes.
You can claim the federal residential solar energy credit on federal income taxes for a percentage of the solar photovoltaic (PV) system’s cost. However, the system must be operational during the tax year and produce electricity for a US-based property.
Check Reviews from Previous Customers
Online review platforms such as Yelp! and Solar Reviews can help you find solar providers in your area. Once you’ve identified a few options, make use of the same platforms to thoroughly read a substantial number of customer reviews.
These reviews offer valuable insights into the quality of customer service and the overall credibility of each company. The personal experiences shared by customers carry significant weight, serving as social proof and highlighting potential concerns.
Go DIY
Lastly, if initial quotes seem too high, you can just go DIY instead.
While you might wonder if you can install your own solar panels, the answer is “yes” with some conditions. DIY systems have pros, like immediate cost savings, but cons too, including long-term limitations.
Most DIY panels can’t connect to the traditional electrical grid and may miss out on tax breaks and energy credits offered for certified installations.
Additionally, if you intend to replace your home’s entire electric system with solar, you’ll need electrical expertise. If manual or skilled labor seems daunting, it’s advisable to hire a certified service to ensure a proper and successful installation.
