Like a lot of people in the Fresno area, you may be thinking about making your home more eco-friendly, possibly starting with solar energy. There’s a lot to consider when choosing a solar contractor for your home and the process is no easy task. The most important part of making this decision is being informed and involved in the process from start to finish. A job like this can take many weeks, so you want to be certain you have the right firm for the job.
A number of outfits in the San Joaquin Valley handle residential solar systems, so choose wisely. Make sure that you find a reputable contractor who can bring integrity, professionalism and most of all, experience to the job. Check with friends or family members who may have hired a firm for a solar installation project. Sometimes referrals can lead to the best candidate.
So, what would be some good questions to ask when choosing a solar contractor?
“Are you and your employees bonded and insured?”
It’s the law in Fresno for solar installation firms to be licensed and insured. If they seem suspicious, ask them for proof, or find out through the Better Business Bureau.”
“How many solar installations has your company completed?”
When people are choosing a solar contractor, they often rely on references. If they don’t have them, don’t hire them.
“How much will the project cost, including parts, labor and installation?”
Also ask about rebates offered through solar parts companies and distributors, which are often offered to solar installation firms. Also ask about the long-term warranties. Make sure they explain details of the 30 percent federal tax credit for qualified solar systems.
“How many kilowatt hours can I expect from the solar system this year?”
Other than cost, this is one of the most important questions to ask when choosing a solar contractor. The amount of electricity that is produced by the solar system is a reflection of the brand of solar panels, and the contractor involved in the work.
To get the right answers to all of your questions about buying and installing a solar system in the Fresno area, please contact the experts at Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Fresno, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about Choosing A Solar Contractor and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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