Photo credit: Panasonic Eco Systems
So you've decided to add solar panels to your home. Great! One of the most important tasks ahead of you is choosing the right solar panel installer. A credible and trusted installer will work with you to design and install a system that is tailored to your home's energy needs and that meets your budget.
But how do you find that installer? Let's explore factors to consider and best practices for choosing a solar installer.
What should you look for in a solar panel installer?
With so many installers — including both local and national companies — to choose from, finding the right one for your job can feel overwhelming. Consider the following factors when you're comparing installers:
Solar installer licenses
License requirements vary from state to state, so it's important to verify that a solar panel installer has the required licenses in your state before working with them. Local and state requirements include solar, electrician, and general contractor licenses.
You can see an overview of your state's licensing requirements at the National Solar Licensing Database, but it's always a good idea to check directly with your local or state licensing board, too.
Certification
Considered the "gold standard" for solar panel installers, The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) certification program is nationally recognized and well respected. A company with installers that are certified by NABCEP is a bonus, says Dan Glaser, Panasonic Senior Sales Engineer, Solar and Storage.
Installer track record
While NABCEP certification is a benefit, there are installers with experience equivalent to or greater than what NABCEP requires, says Glaser. One of the key questions you should ask is how long they've been in business. Dedicated solar panel installers typically have experience ranging from five to 10 years. Glaser suggests requesting a portfolio of work to review.
If any of your neighbors have installed solar panels, you can also ask who they used for installation. That way, you know that the installer is familiar with your neighborhood, and you can hear first-hand accounts of what they're like to work with.
Installer reputation
Customer reviews can provide powerful insights. Glaser encourages exploring social media and sites including Yelp, EnergySage, and Solarreviews.com. Look at serviceability and how quickly a company responds to problems. Be careful not to rely completely on reviews, however, as people often only leave reviews only when they've had a problem, he says.
Panasonic's installer locator tool will also help you find reputable, expert Panasonic installers in your area.
National vs. local solar panel installer
Many homeowners wonder if they should choose a large national installation company or go with a smaller local provider. There's no right answer — there are benefits to each. By going with a larger company, you may get better depth of experience and more resources, a wider range of payment options and maintenance services, and more comprehensive warranties. But smaller solar installers may be able to offer bigger savings; better customer experience; and a deeper knowledge of local regulations, market conditions, and climate.
Customization
In solar, one size does not fit all. A good solar panel installer will take the time to meet you, analyze your property and energy usage, and provide a quote for a solar panel installation that's customized to your needs.
Warranty
Comprehensive warranties are like a safety blanket. They ensure that your solar panel installation and your investment are protected. Don't settle for anything less than three types of warranties covering the product and equipment, performance/power output, and labor.
While the majority of manufacturers' product warranties are good for 25 years, not all companies offer the same long-term performance guarantees. That can make the difference between a great investment and a not-so-great one. Premium solar panels should offer a minimum power output performance of 90% in year 25.
Photo credit: Panasonic Eco Systems
Operations and maintenance
Look at a provider's maintenance packages, advises Glaser. Ideally, your solar system should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year to keep your panels operating at maximum efficiency. Some installers include maintenance and others provide it as an add-on.
Costs
Not all solar panels are created equal, which means they don't all cost the same. It's wise to get opinions from several providers. But be wary of the cheapest price. "If it looks too good to be true, it generally is," Glaser says. "Some newer installers don't understand the length of time a system is warrantied for and what it takes to cover that installation over 25 years or more."
Basic installations can be as quick as a day, while larger installations on complex roofs — such as one with tiles — can take up to a week. If you see a lower price, review the warranty and understand why.
The average US solar panel installation currently costs $20,650 after tax credits. Remember, there are generous federal tax incentives and state incentives available to help lower the cost of residential solar systems. Your installer should be knowledgeable about all government and state rebates and explain the details to you.
What should you do during your solar panel installation?
It's worth being there for part of the installation, says Glaser, to assess the quality of the work. Tell-tale signs of a poor installation include exposed wires and roof leaks, which can quickly get expensive.
Panasonic has done much of the qualifying work for you and works closely with their installers to support homeowners through every phase of ownership. A good place to start is by searching their trusted network of premium and authorized installers.
