Learn How to Choose a Solar Installer in California
By: Solar Power Information, Facts Semper Solaris
Tags: Solar, Solar Panel Installation, Installer, Solar Power, Solar Energy

California Solar Installers

Solar panel installers are people who install solar panels and solar cells on the rooftops of commercial and residential buildings. Even in this day and age of green energy, it isn’t easy to find professionally trained solar panel installers or roofers as they become more and more booked. The reason is that they must have a combination of two skills; from a regular ceiling roofer complemented by a solar electrician.

The market mainly consists of two different types of solar panels that are being produced today: Retrofit and Integration. Retrofitting occurs when solar panels are installed on an existing roof. Integration is when solar cells and panels are integrated into the roofs of new buildings.

When solar panels are upgraded, solar technician skills are not very important as they are not very difficult to install. It boils down to the basics, and that means installing one or more panels on an existing surface and running wires through the roof to the battery backup unit. This is quickly done with conventional ceilings, which then leave wiring to the electrician.

The disadvantage of modified solar panels is that solar panels can be bulky and more susceptible to elements such as; wind, rain, and snow, which many people find out is an issue and in some places can reduce property values. This is why integrated solar roofs are becoming more and more popular. These types of panels are recessed into the ceiling, which means the sides are roughly equal to the rest of the roofline. Thus, solar panels are less exposed to the sharpest elements and are more pleasing to the eye, although solar panels are still visible on your roof.

In response to this problem, solar cell manufacturers have come up with innovative solar panels. These brilliant and advanced solar panels have built-in photovoltaic solar cells. Since these solar panels have the same appearance, size, shape, and color as regular shingles, they are rarely found. A solar stabilizer can transform an entire roof into a large solar panel and give it the look of a standard roof (well, at least from a distance). With the growing popularity of this type of roof, there has also been an increase in the demand for qualified solar panel installers.

Qualified and professional solar panel installers are usually produced nowadays as there are not many people with the required skills. This is why reputable solar panel installation companies take regular roofers and train them to be solar technicians, or take technicians and train them in the art of roof construction.

An installer license is required. Then, to qualify for government rebates, the installer must be licensed to a specialized solar contractor. Another more comfortable way to find the right installer is to contact the manufacturer, who will have a list of all approved installers.

Some installers can also arrange for funding for the installation. You should also make sure that it offers the best customer service and warranty. You can also check review sites like Yelp to see what the experience of other people who have used that company’s service. Your best bet is to get multiple quotes from multiple installers and pick the one you feel is the best. Compare similar offers accordingly, compare the same yield per kilowatt and choose the best offer.

Keys to Finding a Good Solar Installer

Solar fixation is an excellent way to save the environment, but it’s always best to do it with a professional’s help. But finding the right person is not easy, as the goal is to get the most out of your solar installation. Therefore, it is imperative to find someone with professional accreditation that guarantees maximum consumer protection.

It can be found on a website specifically dedicated to this purpose such as Contractors State License Board. Word of mouth is another way to find the right installer. Recommendations from friends or neighbors are always valuable. Cost is another critical factor, but checking all the professional websites and comparing prices is a good idea.

Some companies also offer post-installation services, which is very helpful, and you should check if they are included in the installation or at an additional cost. The most important aspect is the installation guarantee. It would be best to choose which professional offers a warranty and how many years or months it is valid for. Once a list of all available solar panel mounting tools has been compiled, it should be reduced to a few. By double-checking the company’s certification, the right person to install the solar panels can be selected.

If there are any questions or concerns regarding the installation and post-installation maintenance, please check with your installer to avoid future problems. A solar stabilizer can also provide advice and guidance on choosing the best solar device type suitable for this residential or commercial building. Therefore, he is the person who makes decisions on at least some points.

Questions to ask your solar installer

Top 5 Questions to ask your solar installer | Source: Optimus

Do they cover your territory?

When picking the solar panel installation company, make sure it meets the geographic area they serve. This is great when it comes to maintenance, as you can select the solar panel company yourself to do this.

Is the certificate accredited?

The California solar company you choose must always be MCS & CSLB certified. The Micro Certificate of Origin program ensures that all accredited participants meet a strict set of standards.

How was the company founded?

You can feel more confident using an older, more established solar panel installation California solar company. However, MCS certification ensures that it meets industry standards and can professionally install a solar system without damaging your property.

How responsive are they to your request?

Solar panel installers who will answer your questions and take care of your requirements, ensure trouble-free installation and professional after-sales service.

What is the warranty period?

A right installer should provide a minimum of 5–10 year warranty, and that should give some indication of how confident he is about his job.