Whether you’re a homeowner who’s considering solar power or a professional installer, there are many factors to consider when choosing a solar panel system. First, you’ll want to find a reliable company. You can do this by reading customer reviews. You’ll also want to check out their reputation and licensing. If they have a good reputation, you’ll be more likely to have a good experience.
In general, there are two main types of solar installers: national and local. The national companies are publicly traded and often have more resources than their local counterparts. They also have more projects, which means they are more likely to charge more for their services.
On the other hand, local companies are family-owned and often rely on word-of-mouth referrals. They are less likely to use aggressive sales tactics and are more likely to care about their customers.
Local companies are also more accountable than national companies. They may have multiple offices or report to their owners. This can lead to less red tape and pressure. They also tend to care more about customer satisfaction.
Many of these companies also offer a variety of products from one manufacturer. The prices can vary, but they’ll typically cover the initial installation costs. They can also provide a home equity loan. This way, you’ll get tax benefits on the money you’ll save on your electricity bill.
When you’re choosing a company, you’ll also want to check for solar industry certifications. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners is the most prestigious and recognized certification.