Investing in solar panels at home is exciting. However, as with any home project, there are critical details to smooth out before committing to a specific contractor or design. So, if you want to make the most out of this project, you should familiarize yourself with these top questions every homeowner should ask before going solar.
Is the Installation Company Reliable?
The first question you should be able to answer before the solar panel installation is whether the company is reliable. That said, if you’re new to the industry, how do you know where to start? Thankfully, the qualifiers don’t differ drastically from what you’d consider when shopping for any number of service providers.
You should always ask for a solar company’s credentials, namely their business license and insurance plans. Plus, don’t forget to dig into how many years the company has been around. The more experience they have, the better. But if the company has years of work under their belt, but it isn’t great, then that experience won’t come in handy.
Simply ask the installer for proof of previous work and customer referrals. You can also look at reviews online. That way, you can find out if those years of experience showcase a solar installer who knows their craft and can deliver the benefits you should expect from these systems.
Does My System Use the Electrical Grid?
When you find a reliable service provider and start talking designs, one key detail to discuss is whether you want the system to use the electrical grid for energy storage or not. This is particularly important for homeowners who want to ensure their solar system doesn’t interact with the electrical grid whatsoever.
If you choose off-grid options, your solar panels will store energy in the solar battery. As a result, you’ll be able to have 24/7 power, even if a power outage hits. As a certified Tesla Powerwall installer, Go Solar Power can set your home up with a battery that provides uninterrupted power but requires no maintenance.
Do Solar Systems Require Maintenance?
Speaking of maintenance, one of the top questions every homeowner should ask before going solar is, “Do I need to think about upkeep?” Luckily, solar panels require little to no maintenance. The primary maintenance work to consider is regular cleaning. Having an expert wash your solar panels annually can help keep your investment in excellent shape. Not only do clean panels look better, but they will run more productively, too.
Cleaning has such a substantial impact on solar panels because dust and other debris can accumulate on the surface over time. However, by discussing maintenance with your solar installer beforehand, you can determine if they’ll provide cleaning and further assistance you need over time. Now that you’re familiar with these essential questions, you can reach out to a solar installer to map out your ideal design.