Investing in solar energy for your home is a major decision and one that will impact your finances, home value, and energy consumption for the next 25+ years. With this level of commitment, you want to ensure you fully understand how the process works and that you’re choosing a reputable solar company to work with. Before making the leap, here are some crucial questions to ask solar companies to help you make an informed decision and maximize your investment. Getting these solar questions answered before investing in home solar will ensure you feel confident in the company you choose and get the highest return on investment.
Questions to Ask Solar Companies
Before you invest in solar energy for your home, there are some important things to ask. Getting these solar questions answered will help you understand the solar installation process, what’s expected of you, how your solar company works, and what you need to be aware of when it comes to timelines, warranties, pricing, etc. Asking these solar questions is also a great way to vet solar companies to ensure you choose a reputable one with local experience, great reviews, and solid warranties.
Here are some specific solar energy questions to ask:
Company & Experience
Choosing the right solar company to work with is just as important as selecting the right solar panels (perhaps even more important!).
Start by asking questions about the company as a whole, their experience, credibility, and how they handle certain aspects of the solar process, such as warranties, insurance claims, maintenance, proposals, etc.
- How long have you been in business?
- Are you a local company or a branch of a national company?
- Can you provide customer references or testimonials or allow us to speak with past clients?
- What licenses and certifications do you hold?
- Do you have experience installing solar panels in our area (e.g., Denver, Colorado)?
- How do you handle insurance claims and other potential issues?
- How are we covered? What kind of workmanship warranties and guarantees do you have?
- How do you prepare and evaluate a solar proposal?
- How do you know how much solar we will need to power our home?
Solar Panels & System Design
Understanding the type of solar panels and system design that will be implemented for your home solar energy system is key to ensuring maximum efficiency and energy savings. Prepare these questions to ask about solar power so you understand the solar panel system that will power your home.
- What types of solar panels do you typically install, and why do you recommend them?
- How will you assess shading and sun exposure on our property?
- What is the estimated annual energy production of our system?
- What will the panel placement on our roof or property look like? What type of mounting system will you use?
- What are the details of the manufacturer’s warranty for the panels?
- How does the panel placement impact energy production?
- What is the estimated lifespan of the solar panels?
- What happens to the solar panels when weather events occur (e.g., hail, snow, rain, etc)?
- If the power goes out, will we still have power?
Installation & Workmanship
The quality of the solar company’s workmanship during the installation process plays a key role in the performance and durability of your solar system. Make sure to ask specific questions about the company’s installation process and how they work when choosing a company to partner with.
- What is your typical installation timeline?
- Do you use subcontractors? If so, what are their qualifications?
- How will you assess our roof to ensure it’s compatible with solar panels?
- Will the roof require structural reinforcement or other preparation before installation?
- What steps will you take to protect our property during the installation process?
- Will you handle all necessary permits and inspections?
- What is the timeline and what is all needed from me?
- How do you address installation issues if they arise?
- What is your process for troubleshooting or repairing system issues post-installation?
- What is your process for post-installation service and maintenance?
Financing & Costs
Investing in a home solar energy system is a big financial decision, so do your due diligence and ask these solar questions about the financing options and costs. This will help you set realistic expectations, avoid “sticker shock,” and prevent unexpected costs.
- What is needed from us, financially, to get solar?
- What financing options are available?
- Are there any tax credits or rebates available for solar panel installations in my area (e.g., Denver, Colorado)?
- What is the total cost of the system, including all costs associated with installation, applications, approvals, etc?
- Can you provide a detailed breakdown of costs?
- Are there any hidden fees or charges?
- How does solar net metering work in my area, and how will it impact my electricity bill?
- Will having a solar energy system totally eliminate my electric bill?
- What are the financial benefits of going solar?
Looking For A Reputable Solar Company in Denver, Colorado?
Investing in solar power is a long-term commitment, so please don’t rush the process and partner with the first company you come across. Take the time to do your research, ask the right solar questions upfront, and vet each company before making your decision.
Think of this as an interview process to see which solar company best answers your questions, showcases their reputation, fits your needs, and makes you feel confident in the process and their ability to serve you.
If you’re in the Denver, Colorado area and are looking for a reputable solar company to partner with, we’d love to meet with you, answer all of these questions, and get the process started so you can reap the benefits of renewable solar energy for years to come.
Contact Blu Solar today for your free estimate!
