Solar Supply Stores Near Me: How to Choose a Solar Installer

Did you know that, in 2019, over 2 million US homes had solar panel systems? The sun is an extraordinary anomaly, providing free energy.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to cut down costs in energy bills or a business looking for a more efficient and eco-friendly way to run your business, investing in solar panels is an intelligent decision.

To do this, you’ll need to know where to gather your materials and ask yourself, “Where are solar supply stores near me?” and who can install the equipment.

If you want to make the wisest financial decision regarding your home or business, keep reading. This article gives you the best tips for choosing a solar installer.

Search for Local

The first thing you’ll want to do when finding the best solar installer is to search for local solar company installers. A full-full service ensures you’ll have a team near you if any problems arise with the solar panel installation.

A local solar company will have vast knowledge about the familiarities of your area’s buildings and your local building codes and permits. They’ll also be familiar with the best solar panels for your project. This is important because building codes and standards change frequently, so hiring someone local will be the way to go.

Most of the time, local companies have a strong relationship with building inspectors and permit offices. This can help your solar installation go smoothly.

Customer Care Is a Must

When choosing a solar panel company, you’ll want to make that customer care is at the top of their list. Although solar panels are relatively maintenance-free, you can have problems with wiring or panel placement from time to time.

When this happens, you’ll want to hire a solar panel installation company that can help with a service call.

  • Do they have 24-hour technical support?
  • Are there any extra service call fees?
  • Do you need to book an appointment for troubleshooting?
  • Are their services covered under any warranties or guarantees?
  • Are the parts covered under warranty in case they fail?
  • Will they be using any subcontractors, and if so, will they oversee their work?

You’ll need to ask these questions to ensure they provide top-notch customer care.

Look for Certifications

One of the most important things you’ll need to look for is certifications. For a solar panel independent contractor or company to operate, they’ll need the proper certifications, insurance, and permits. Check with your local municipalities to know what you are looking for.

Most cities and states require solar panel installers to operate with a license or permit. Choose a contractor or company without the necessary permits. You may be in trouble with building inspectors or could be a liability in case a problem arises with installation or if damage is done.

If no permits or certifications are required to install, knowing they are qualified is still essential. Ask them if they have a North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners certificate (NABCEP). This is a good certification program.

Reviews are Everything

Good reviews from clients can speak volumes of the company’s reliability, craftsmanship, and customer care. Online resources such as Solar Reviews or Yelp can help find some credibility.

Another place to find reviews is the company’s website. Although this may seem biased, some companies place their clients’ thoughts on their sites. This will also be an excellent time to check over the following so that you can familiarize their policies.

  • Refund policies
  • Warranties
  • Complaints
  • Financing experiences
  • Ease of installations
  • Solar installer fees

Checking for reviews is crucial when choosing a company or contractor. Don’t be afraid to call or go to their office and ask these questions directly. Look around your neighborhood or business district to see who has solar panels.

It might do you some good to talk with them to see who installed their panels and if the company they used is recommended.

Experience Is Key

A good job can’t be done without experience on the job. You’ll want to choose a company with a good amount of experience. They don’t necessarily need to have the most years of experience because a company with twenty years of doing a shoddy job with bad wire management and framing will not compare to a company with quality work and five years of experience.

If you are a business owner, this is especially important. Some installers may only be familiar with houses and have no experience with buildings. Describe your project to them to see if they have experience with a past similar job.

Once you narrow down a few companies, invite them to your home or building project, and ask them to examine the project to see if it’s within their scope of practice.

Solar Supply Stores Near Me

There is nothing better than cutting the cord to the energy grid and knowing you’re saving money in the long term. Solar installation requires a small minimum upfront cost of materials and installation. 

Once this initial investment is made, you won’t have to worry about paying a monthly bill for the rest of your life. Another positive advantage is you know you’re helping the environment. Solar Panel energy is clean, renewable energy that won’t produce harmful by-products like carbon dioxide.

Once you’ve asked yourself the critical question, “Where can I find solar supply stores near me?” and have found your panels and a contractor using these tips, you’re good to go!

We hope this article helps you. Check out our site for similar lifestyle, business, and career tips articles.