Solar How: Discover The Benefits Of Solar Power
Although not the cheapest, the easiest way to switch your home to a solar energy system is to use a contractor. A contractor can help you choose the best system for your house. They can also deal with the legal issues of building and electrical permits. Also, in order to get some of the credits and rebates offered for going solar, your system will need to be professionally installed. These benefits can far outweigh the additional cost of using a contractor.
In order to put together a list of contractors, you can contact your state electrical board.
Also try looking online and in your phone book. The manufacturer of the system you want installed may also be able to help you here. However, one of the best ways to find a good contractor is to talk to people you know who have switched to Solar Power electricity. Find out who they used and whether or not they had any problems with that company.
Always be sure to get written and detailed estimates from several contractors. Each estimate should include quantity, make and model of equipment that will be used. Other information that should be included is the warranty, after installation service policies and maximum capacity that can be generated.
There are some questions you need to ask any potential installer before choosing them to install your system. The first and most important is whether or not they have installed this type of system before. Not all electricians and contractors know how to do this properly, so make sure that the one you choose knows what they are doing.
Something else you need to verify is whether or not the contractor is licensed. You can contact your state electrical board to find out if contractors are licensed. Find out what payment schedules and conditions the contractor offers and decide if it’s something you can deal with.
Be wary if you run into either of the following situations when trying to choose a contractor to install your solar power system. Always be suspicious of solar contractors who offer the quickest and least expensive estimate, especially if they say you have to act right now to get their prices.
If you run into a solar contractor that requires you to pay up front, steer clear of them. You should never be required to pay before the work is completed. Some contractors will request that you put down a deposit, which is perfectly fine.
Several things should be compared when trying to choose a contractor to install your Solar Power system. These include:
* Costs
* After installation service
* Availability and customer service
* Assistance with credits and rebates
* Level of experience
When negotiating a contract with the company you have chosen to install your system, make sure that the following items are discussed and included. The full cost to bring the system operational is the main thing to discuss. The full cost should include, at the very least, labor, design, installation and equipment.
Ask the contractor if they provide help with building and electrical permits. If they do, then this needs to be included in the contract. Will they simply provide you with information on what permits are needed? Will they fill out the proper paperwork and obtain the permits for you? The extent of help they provide needs to be addressed. Some contractors will also help you with credits and discounts for switching to a Solar Power system, so be sure to discuss this with them as well.
You need to obtain copies your contractor’s insurance. Be sure to get a copy of their workman’s compensation, liability and property damage. Read all of the policies carefully to make sure that their insurance will cover any damage they may cause while installing your solar power system. Get references from your solar contractor and contact them to verify their satisfaction. Also call the local building department and verify that your contractor is able to pull the required permits.
