Your Guide to Selecting a Solar Contractor for Your Home

How To Choose the Right Company for a Solar Panel Installation

With energy costs on the rise, many homeowners in Missouri and Arkansas are looking to solar as a way to combat their monthly bills and cut down on their carbon footprint. If you’re considering making the switch to solar energy, one of the most important decisions you can make is the solar company. Choosing the right solar contractor for your installation is crucial to ensure a successful and hassle-free experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the important factors to consider when selecting a solar contractor.

Why Choosing the Right Solar Contractor Matters

Installing solar panels is a significant investment, both in terms of finances and the impact on your home. The expertise and reliability of your chosen solar company can greatly influence the performance and longevity of your solar energy system, so here’s what you should be looking for when evaluating potential solar companies:

1. Experience and Reputation

When considering a solar contractor, their experience and reputation should be top priorities. Research how long the company has been in the solar industry and if they have a track record of successful installations. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to gauge their reputation. A reputable contractor will have a portfolio of completed projects and a strong online presence.

2. Licensing and Certification

Ensure that the solar contractor is properly licensed and certified to operate in your area. Different regions have varying regulations and requirements for solar installations. Choosing a contractor with the right credentials ensures compliance with local codes and standards, as well as the eligibility for solar incentives and rebates.

3. Expertise in System Design

A knowledgeable solar contractor will conduct a thorough evaluation of your property, taking into account factors like roof orientation, shading, and energy consumption patterns. They should be able to design a customized solar system that maximizes energy production and meets your household’s specific needs.

4. Quality of Equipment

The quality of solar panels and other system components can impact the efficiency and life span of your solar energy system. Inquire about the brands of solar panels and inverters the contractor uses. Reputable contractors often partner with established manufacturers known for producing reliable and efficient equipment.

5. Warranty and Maintenance

A dependable solar contractor should offer warranties on both the equipment and the installation workmanship. Understand the terms and duration of these warranties to ensure you’re covered in case of any issues. Additionally, inquire about maintenance services and whether the contractor provides ongoing support to keep your solar system operating efficiently.

6. Local Knowledge

Choosing a solar contractor familiar with local regulations, weather conditions, and permitting processes can streamline the installation process. Local expertise ensures that your solar system is optimized for the specific conditions of your area, leading to better performance over time.

7. Transparent Communication

Effective communication is key throughout the entire solar installation process. A reputable solar contractor will provide clear explanations of the installation timeline, costs, and expected energy savings. They should be responsive to your questions and concerns, ensuring you’re well-informed at every step.

8. In-House Work & No Subcontracting

If you are spending a significant amount of time vetting a solar company, you want to ensure they are actually the ones doing the final work. However, some sales organizations will write the deal and have someone else install the system. Subcontracting can cause many potential problems and uncertainties for homeowners, whereas in-house work leads to a clear line of accountability. After all, you don’t want to be left playing a blame game if there are any issues with your installation. So, when choosing a solar company, ask to make sure that they do work in-house and if they have a W2 electrician on staff.

Choose Solera Energy as Your Solar Contractor

Making the switch to solar is exciting, and the right solar company can make it a seamless process for you. As the first company to bring solar power to the Show-Me State, Solera Energy is the premier solar company for homeowners throughout Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. We have over a decade of experience, and our team of solar experts is ready to help you power your home with clean, affordable energy.

Call Solera Energy today at (866) 346-2009 to schedule a free consultation for a solar panel installation.