How To Choose The Best Solar Panel Array Installers? – 5 Tips To Help You Decide
Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 at
1:22 pm
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After you have made the decision that you want to install solar cells on your home, you need to find a reliable company to purchase them from and to set up them. But how do you know who to choose? Here are some tips to help you decide.
1. Experience Counts.
If you are fortunate enough to live in an district where solar panel installation has been ongoing, you may be able to find a company which has been in business for 2 or 3 decades. If so, they should be able to provide plenty of references for you to call. It will also be easy to check with the local Better Business Bureau to see if they have a spotless record.
2. What Do They Recommend?
Ask them about the equipment they suggest, and do some research on the internet to find some reviews of the manufacturers. Find out what kinds of warranties the equipments comes with. Also, find out what kinds of warranties the contractor offers on labor and workmanship. It is common to find ten year warranties on the solar power panels, and three to 10 year warranties on pumps, inverters and controls. Workmanship should have at least a one year warranty.
3. Off-Grid or On-Grid Systems
Some installers have know-how only in off-grid systems, and you may be uneasy about them working on your system if it will be tied to the grid. It is true that there are distinct differences between installing the two systems. But off grid-systems are much more complex than grid-tied-systems. An off-grid installer will most likely be quite capable of connecting your system to the local electricity company, especially since he or she will be monitored by the local building inspectors.
4. Professional Membership
Membership in a professional organization for alternative energy vendors might be another indicator of professionalism. But find out first what the requirements are to join the association before you decide to be impressed. Memberships are voluntary, and some only require paying a fee. Other organizations (like the Solar Energies Industries Association) require ongoing instruction and field experience in order to qualify for membership.
5. Word Of Month Recommendations
The top recommendation is always word of mouth from a trusted source. If you know someone who has recently had solar power panels installed, ask them if they would refer the company they used. You can also ask a local real estate agent. They usually know the responsible installers in town.
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Tagged with: association membership • contractor • equipment they suggest • grid-tied-system • install solar cell • off-grid • off-grid installer • off-grid systems • olar panel installation • on-grid • one year warranty • professional membership • references • solar energies industries association • solar panel array installers • solar power panels • solar power panels installed • warranties • word of month recommendation • workmanship
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Alternative Energy Articles
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