staff Your solar contractor is more than just a roofer who installs your new PV system. They handle various other tasks that ensure your solar power system delivers years of clean energy.
An engineer from your solar company will visit your site and evaluate your existing electrical system. This is an important step to confirm your system meets all code requirements.
Design
Solar installers near me can design a system that will fit your roof and energy needs. This process almost always involves a home visit from a local technician or an engineer from the solar company.
Once the contractor has a final design, they will submit it to your local government for permitting. This can take a few weeks, and it will be helpful for your solar professional to navigate the process on your behalf. They will also work with you to ensure your house is ready for installation day, including addressing roofing repairs or pruning nearby trees.
It’s worth asking your solar contractor whether they will install the system themselves or use subcontractors. It’s not uncommon for solar companies to outsource their work, but it is essential to understand why and what oversight the company you purchase from has over the subcontractors. These answers will help you decide which installer is best for your home.
Installation
The solar installation process is lengthy and requires physical strength and stamina. It’s common for PV installers to spend a significant amount of time on rooftops or other elevated areas in direct sunlight. They may also work in tight spaces like attics or crawl spaces, particularly when connecting to existing electrical systems.
A good solar contractor will know how to safely and properly install a system. They will be familiar with local and state guidelines and will assist you in obtaining the required work permits. They should also be able to guide you on the best placement of solar panels for maximum energy production.
After the racking is mounted on your roof, crews install your inverter and Sunrun meter. They’ll connect your equipment with the necessary electrical wiring (conduit). The team will then secure the connections and seal any holes at the end of the job.
Maintenance
Siding contractors near me may handle the installation or work with subcontractors to do so, depending on the type of system. The contractor’s team will have all the necessary equipment and aim to finish the installation in one day. They will also check the system for faulty wiring and potential fire hazards. The local government will then perform an inspection to verify compliance and grant permission to operate.
Solar maintenance typically includes cleaning the panels. The frequency depends on the landscape and weather conditions, usually twice a year. Cleaning prevents dirt accumulation which can impact performance. A professional can clean the system using a commercial-grade pressure washer and ensure all screws and bolts are tight.
In addition to meeting licensing requirements, solar contractors must also maintain an insurance policy for their business. These policies provide coverage in case of accidental damage caused by solar panel installation. Insurance is essential to protect the company and the clients in case a claim arises.
Warranty
Depending on the solar installation company, they may offer additional warranties/guarantees that exceed what the product manufacturer provides. For example, a production guarantee ensures that the solar system will produce the energy specified in the proposal. This differs from a manufacturer’s warranty, which only guarantees that the panel’s degradation percentage will not exceed a certain threshold.
Additionally, many solar contractors offer an artistry warranty to cover any issues with the system. This is a great way to differentiate themselves and show they stand behind their work.
This typically covers any equipment that fails during the warranty period, including shipping costs for replacements and installation labor. It can also include solar inverters, roof penetrations, and other system parts. Some homeowners have found that this added protection on top of their manufacturer warranties makes them more comfortable investing.
