How to Spot Warning Signs When Looking for Reputable Solar Companies

While the requirement for solar energy just keeps on increasing, people now are trying ways to use the sun for energy salvage in order to save electricity bills and carbon footprints. However, increasing the number of solar energy requirements among people also increases the number of companies availing the services of Solar Panel Installation. Some of these are quite reputable solar companies, while others do not practice with the same professionalism and integrity. If one doesn't know what to look for, finding those legitimate solar companies might be a pretty hard thing to do. 

Here is a rundown of some major warning signs you should be looking out for when choosing a solar company:

1. Lack of Proper Licensing and Certification

One thing you should check if reputed solar companies are licensed and certified enough to carry on business in your locality. Installation of solar panels requires technical acumen, which will be adequately certified and licensed from a local or national level regulatory authority by a reputed company. If any such company does not or isn't willing to show its license and certifications, then that's a big no.

For instance, in the U.S., a reputable solar company should carry certifications by organizations such as the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. If not, it is best to avoid them.

2. Poor Online Reputation

Another huge red flag is lousy online reputation. Reputable solar companies have great reviews and customer testimonials of satisfied clients. Check out third-party review sites, social media, and forums that real customers use to share their experiences before committing to a company. A number of unresolved complaints or repeatedly negative comments raise a red flag.

It's also important to beware of fake reviews. When a company has absolutely perfect, five-star ratings without any shade-or if the reviews seem just a bit generic-that's suspicious. In most cases, positive and constructive feedback tends to explain a business that is genuine and trustworthy.

3. High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Reputable solar companies educate their customers about solar rather than pressuring a customer into making quick decisions. If you find yourself in a situation where a salesperson is pushing you to sign immediately, or offering "limited-time discounts" that expire in a few hours, that is a red flag.

A legitimate solar company will take your time to consider options, answer your questions, and finally allow you to compare various offers at your pace without speeding up the process. You should never be with a company that makes you uncomfortable or speeds up the sale for you.

4. Vague or Confusing Pricing

Another red flag in searching for reputed solar companies comes with unclear or confusing pricing. A reliable solar company will be upfront concerning the cost of their services, from installation to maintenance, and any other hidden costs arising. This should clearly explain what you pay for in relation to the price breakdown.

If a company is evasive about direct questions regarding costs or continuously adds hidden charges, that's a sure sign of possible operation at cross-purposes with your interests. Make sure you obtain a number of bids from several companies to ensure you are getting a fair deal.

5. No Warranty or Poor Warranty Terms

Solar panels are an expensive investment, and any serious solar company would give a hard-core guarantee not only for equipment but also for installation. If a given company gives a very small warranty or the words within it seem vague, one has every reason to raise an eyebrow.

Warranties provided at installation usually cover the performance of the solar panels for 20-25 years, and the installation warranty should cover all issues that would arise because of the installation itself. Be sure to review the terms of the warranty carefully and don't be afraid to ask for clarification on what is and isn't covered.

6. Lack of a Detailed Site Assessment

The solar company that has a good reputation will conduct an actual site assessment before recommending a certain solar system. It would analyze the conditions of your roof, its orientation, possible shading, and other factors reflecting solar systems' performance. If a company does not even bother to see your property and offers you a quote directly on the phone, it is most likely more interested in closing the deal rather than the working of the solar system.

A professional company takes the pain to understand your energy needs and develops a personalized solar solution based on those considerations.

7. Unrealistic Promises

Solar is an excellent way of saving on electricity bills and also solar system loans, but it is not some kind of sorcery that will drop the bills overnight. If a solar company promises you enormous savings or tells you that you will never have to pay for electricity again, that's a sign that something is off. While solar power can save enormously, reputable solar companies set realistic expectations on your real energy usage and conditions faced by your area.

Conclusion

Choosing an appropriate solar provider will ensure that your investment is worth it in the long run. The moment one goes out to look for established solar companies, some of the warning signs to check out are those mentioned above. Research, ask questions, and stay alert for any of the aforementioned potential warning signs; that way, you will find a trustworthy solar company catering to your needs, allowing you full enjoyment of the sun's potential.