Compare Solar Companies: Things to Look For

When it comes time to compare solar companies, the bottom line on cost is frequently the “make-or-break” of a solar sale.  The company that bids the lowest price frequently wins the sale.  Although a lower sticker price may make a homeowner feel like they dodged a bullet on price-gouging, understanding what goes into the “bottom line” of a quote helps consumers make better choices. 

Higher Quality Install Projects

When shopping for solar, people are highly focused on the brand of the solar panel being installed on the roof of their home. This is because the “solar” part of the construction job is often the most exciting.  However, bids of jobs change radically when the quality of the entire install matches that of the panels. The higher quality materials used in the installation process, the better the system will function.  The lessor the quality, the greater the risk for malfunction, low production or damage.

Compare Solar Companies: Inverter

For example, the inverter is what changes the charge of the electricity from the panels into a current that is usable within the home.  Higher end inverters are of higher quality, warranty and production – but also higher in price.  Many companies are able to lower the bottom line by installing a lower-grade of inverter.  Customers often do not realize the significance of the inverter and think that paying less is a bonus. However, a lesser quality inverter means the panels cannot function to their highest capacity.  The quality of the inverter should ideally match the quality of the panels being installed on the roof of a home.

Compare Solar Companies: Racking System

Other important aspects include the racking system.  We always say, “an install is only as good as the racking system,” because if the racking system fails, your roof leaks OR the panels come off the roof.  Many companies skimp on racking systems because they are hidden – yet poor quality systems compromise the integrity of the entire system and the roof of a home.

Conduit Runs and Painting

Finally, details of the install that provide to the esthetics of the home are also areas where lesser installers skimp.  Having conduit that does not follow the line of the house, and neglecting to paint conduit is another common strategy to save money, yet compromises the esthetic of the home.  How a home looks is important since the panels are permanently attached to the roof.  To maintain pride of ownership, details such as conduits and painting are imperative.

 Higher Costs Mean Higher Value 

Understanding the variables of a solar system and the installation helps homeowners make savvy choices regarding their purchase.  Many solar companies are able to keep prices lower, which is appealing to homeowners, by cutting corners and using lesser quality products and tools.  In the long run, the cost can be excessive.  Having to purchase a new inverter, fix holes in a roof, or even repaint the conduit runs can add up.  Ensuring the job is done correctly the first time around will ensure your system is working to its full potential at all times.  Even if the price is slightly higher at purchase, the return on your investment will be greater and the risk of problems drop.

Take the time to speak with one of our Energy Advisers today to learn about the benefits of installing a Del Sol Energy solar system today.