So You Want Solar Panels On Your Home

Step one is the easy part. Just make the decision that you want to install solar panels on your home.

Next, you have to decide which installer is the best for your situation. That's not so easy. With so many solar installation companies to choose from, it can feel overwhelming. You have several questions. Is the lowest price from a good company? What qualities or certifications should you look for? Are they going to finish the job in a timely manner? 

The good news is that when you commit to working with a local, licensed installer, most likely you've already narrowed the field. If you look for licensed solar panel installers based in your area, those installers are typically more concerned about customer satisfaction, they usually use higher-quality equipment, and often have the best prices because they already have to compete with everyone else. 
 

Why Should I Choose a Local Solar Panel Installer?

There are several reasons it makes more sense to work with a local solar contractor rather than their national solar installer counterparts. In most cases, you'll save money. 

While the quality of product and workmanship are a priority, it's also true that most homeowners pay attention to the bottom line. The good news is that, according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), local solar installers' pricing is an average of 10 percent lower than the national residential solar installers.
 

Local installers have better customer ratings

Simply put, local solar installers care more about the work they do, their reputation, and your ratings. In fact, studies show that local solar panel installers consistently get higher ratings than the nation's largest, and most recognized solar installers.

They also often use higher-quality brands of solar panels and inverters because they feel a personal responsibility for the systems they install. 

National installers are known for using cheaper products to lower in-house costs, maximizing their profits. While local installers certainly care about their profit margin, they take a different approach to pricing.

Since local solar contractors care more about the work they do and their overall customer satisfaction, they use higher-quality products, materials, and workmanship - but still, prioritize customer-centric pricing tables. This results in reduced long-term solar maintenance requirements and repair costs for their buyers, and it also increases the life expectancy of the solar panels and related equipment. 

This approach saves thousands of dollars over the lifetime of a residential solar system.
 

A dedicated crew of full-time solar employees 

When you work with a local contractor, the crew who installs the system are full-time workers who report directly back to their boss, the company's owner.

This creates a level of accountability that is simply not present with bigger, national companies who subcontract work out to crews who are not only out-of-towners but who may only work part-time or seasonally. These crews have a less vested interest to give each project their best effort.

These local companies also know the local laws, building ordinances, and have relationships with the local utilities.
 

Overall customer satisfaction matters more

When you work with a local solar contractor, odds are you're working with a family-owned business that cares about their customer's satisfaction in a more personal way. Local companies rely heavily on word-of-mouth referrals, and those only happen when customers are happy with their work.

Plus, if company owners and employees live and work in the same community as the client base, they're apt to run into you in the grocery store, the soccer fields, or at the local pool - and they want to be able to wave and say hello with open hearts and clear consciences.
 

Are There Different Types of Solar System Installment Companies?

This is by no means a "one-size-fits-all" industry. There are reputable companies at every level, national and local. There are also fly-by-night companies at every level. Some specialize in the residential market, others in the commercial. Some only use a particular product line, others are more open to their clients' well-informed research and preferred options.

That's why it's so important to research the different types of solar installment companies in your area so you make the best choice for your project's needs.
 

What Are Good Ways to Select a Local Solar Installer?

First, make sure prospective companies are licensed and insured. Obtain at least three to five quotes and compare them line-by-line. I know it sounds petty, but it could save you lots of money.

Finally, take time to do some research. Check online reviews. People who had both good and bad experiences put their reviews online now, and that information is often useful. Make sure the equipment being used is guaranteed, and it is also important to find installers who are certified and properly trained. 
 

Tips for Getting the Best Solar Panel Costs

You're not at the mercy of the installer when it comes to your final solar installation costs. If you visit HahaSmart and see our price checker tool, you can find out how much it would cost for a solar panel system on your home. 
 

What are Common Characteristics of Excellent Solar Panel Installers? 

These same findings are revealed by the highest, consumer-rated solar installers in the nation, all of which are family-owned and not publicly listed or traded. Consumer ratings are considered carefully by prospective customers, and small to mid-sized companies consistently have the highest overall ratings.
 

Are Solar Panels Worth it?

As of 2018, the combination of low solar installation costs and the fact that the calculable investment return on solar installations rivals that of most conventional investments, such as property or shares, there has never been a better time to pursue residential solar panels. The key, however, to lifetime satisfaction with your solar installation investment is to choose a reputable, local solar panel installer so you benefit from high-quality products and workmanship, lower prices, and superior customer service.
 

Connect with HahaSmart Local Verified Installers in Your Area

Here at HahaSmart, we help homeowners save not only by selling high-quality solar products at the lowest possible price but by also connecting homeowners to HahaSmart Verified Local Installers across the U.S. who will help you install your panel quickly, professionally and at a great cost. 

To learn more about how you can participate in the solar power revolution, compare quotes now by designing your home using our Design DIY Tool. 

For information relating to going solar don’t forget to visit our solar blog section for more handy guides and articles.