Are you thinking of going solar this year? About two million homeowners throughout the US are already experiencing the benefits of solar panel installations. By 2023, the country could surpass four million installations.
Going solar could save you money while protecting the environment. You could even receive tax incentives after making the switch. It's important to find the right solar company in California to install your panels, though.
Proper installation will ensure you reap the benefits of going solar right away.
Not sure which California solar companies offer the products or services you need? Here are eight tips that can streamline your search.
With these tips, you can find the absolute best solar companies in California. You can feel confident an experienced team is on the job. Their experience and expertise will ensure you don't encounter issues with your panels in the future.
Start your search for the best solar company California can offer with these tips today.
1. Gather Referrals
First, look around the neighborhood. There are currently over 20,000 solar panel installation companies in the US. There's a chance you already know someone with solar panels on their roof.
Talk to friends, family members, and neighbors. Ask if any of them have already researched solar companies in California. If they have, ask who they ended up hiring.
Take the time to learn more about their firsthand experience with the solar company they chose, too. For example, you can ask:
- Did the team arrive on time
- Were they professional and knowledgeable
- How long did it take for them to install your panels
- Did you encounter any issues
- How were those problems resolved
- Would you hire them again
- Did they accomplish your goals
Start creating an Excel spreadsheet to track your notes. Speaking with your inner circle will help you learn more about each company. You might have an easier time determining which companies to avoid, too.
As you start researching the solar companies California has to offer, determine each company's service radius. If they won't travel to your home, scratch them off your list. Make sure they won't charge additional fees to travel to your location, either.
2. Consider Specific Needs
As you research the different solar companies in California, it's important to consider your distinct needs. Before choosing an installation team, determine your priorities.
For example, you might decide the price is among your top priorities.
Different factors can impact the price of your panels, including the type of panels you choose. You might want to consider how many panels you'll need, too. The size of your home and the light exposure you receive can also have an impact.
You might want to determine if you prefer to purchase or lease your panels as well.
Making a list of your wants and needs can help you narrow down the options on your list.
3. Choose Local or National
As you compare the different California solar companies available, determine if you want to hire a national or local company. There's no right or wrong answer; it depends on your unique preference.
A national, larger company might have better services or payment options. They might have a more comprehensive warranty, too.
A local company might have a better understanding of the county permitting requirements and local rebates available.
4. Check Their Credentials
Make sure to vet every solar company on your list.
First, determine how long the company has run and operated. Check their Better Business Bureau listings for more information. Try to find a long-established business.
Established solar companies in California will have hands-on experience and expertise you can count on. These teams likely have an efficient plan in place, too. They're less likely to make mistakes on the job.
Look for teams that are certified by a nationally recognized program like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). These solar companies will meet the gold standard for sales and installations.
Otherwise, determine if they have a PV Installation Professional of staff. These professionals complete extensive training.
5. Determine Their Reputation
If you want to find the best solar company CA can offer, learn from the people who were once in your shoes. Ask each company if they can refer you to some of their previous clients. References and reviews will help you learn more about each team.
Determine if the clients experienced any issues while working with the installation team. Make sure the team found a way to resolve those issues, too.
Consider the company's communication skills as well. You don't want to hire someone you'll struggle to contact in the future. Instead, look for a team that offers the best possible customer service.
You can also find reviews on the company's BBB, Yelp, and Google My Business profiles.
6. Discuss Financing
Make sure to ask each solar company about the financing options they provide. For example, you might consider:
- Entering a power purchase agreement
- Taking out a loan
- Leasing your solar panels
- Paying in cash
You can review the pros and cons of each option with your installation team. Make sure to choose a company that offers the financing option you prefer.
7. Review Their Services
Before making a final decision, ask each solar company in CA about their services.
For example, you might want to find a company that can clean your panels on an annual basis. Ask each company if they provide preventative maintenance checks, too.
Their supplemental services can help you make the most of your solar panels.
8. Gather Estimates
Ask at least three solar companies in California for an estimate. Determine what's included (such as labor and materials). Make sure to get every agreement in writing to avoid potential disputes in the future.
Then, compare the solar companies California has available.
Don't make your final decision based only on pricing. Instead, review your notes to find the best company in town.
Search On: 8 Tips for Finding the Best Solar Company in California
Don't rush when choosing a solar company in California. Instead, use these eight tips to make a more informed decision. With these tips, you can find the best California solar companies available.
They'll make sure you receive the best possible customer experience moving forward.
Eager to get started? We can't wait to help you experience the benefits of going solar.
Get your free estimate from our team today!
