Did you know that the average household spends almost $115 per month on their electricity bill? If you’re like most homeowners, finding ways to lower your utility bills isn’t just a pipedream—it’s a necessity.
While you can upgrade your appliances to energy-efficient alternatives, doing so can be prohibitively expensive. Luckily, there’s another option: installing solar panels on your home. And to install those panels, you’ll need to choose solar contractors to manage the installation.
Here are a few simple tips to help you choose a contractor you can rely on to install your residential solar system.
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Research Your Solar Contractor Options
Before you start calling around, take the time to research the solar providers in your area. Pay close attention to the types of services they offer, the types of installations they’ve done in the past, and what others have to say about their services.
Reading online reviews will give you insight into the quality of their workmanship and can help you decide if the contractors are worth working with. Be mindful of any repeated complaints or problems mentioned in the reviews. The chances are high that if several people had negative experiences, you will as well.
Get Quotes From Several Companies
Once you know which companies to avoid, you can start contacting the ones that you have confidence in. When you call, ask each company for a detailed quote for a residential solar system that fits your needs.
Ideally, the contractors will be able to visit your property and provide you with recommendations for the number of panels and the proper placement for your solar array.
While you’re on the phone with them, get more info about their experience and discuss how they charge for their services. It’s also a good idea to find out what types of warranties and workmanship guarantees they offer before you agree to work with them.
Compare Their Prices and Customer Service
Once you have those detailed quotes in hand, compare them. Look at the rates each contractor charges for labor, materials, and any other incidental costs. Then, consider how responsive each contractor has been to your concerns and questions.
While it’s tempting to work with the cheapest contractor you can find, it’s not always the best option. Those budget contractors may not stand behind their work and could end up costing you more down the line.
Instead, choose the contractor that offers you the best customer service and quality workmanship at a price you can afford. This way, you’ll know that your solar system will be installed correctly and that you can rely on your contractor for ongoing support.
Now You’re Ready to Choose Solar Contractors
Figuring out how to choose solar contractors can often feel like the hardest part of deciding to install a residential solar system. As long as you keep these tips in mind, you’ll be able to choose a professional that you can trust to handle your solar installation correctly.
Keep in mind that installing solar panels is just one way to save money on your monthly bills. Check out our latest posts for more tips to help you make smart money moves and free up cash each month.
