Solar Thermal Installation

When installing a solar hot water system on your residential home or business, selecting a licensed solar contractor is essential. In order to be assured that your installation will be in good hands, you need to conduct your own research and interview a number of different qualified candidates. This means prequalify the installers – ask them a series of questions that will allow you to assess their level of experience. Most importantly, you need to find out if the installer has the proper licensing and training. The market is crowded with new solar installers and it is up to you to differentiate the experienced professionals from the ‘rookies’.
Finding a Solar Contractor: What to look for:

1. Hire only licensed solar contractors – Visit the Contractors State License Board at www.cslb.ca.gov or call at 1-800-321-2752 to verify solar contractor licensing. Buying a high end solar thermal system is only the first step…

2. Be sure the contractor is insured – Verify the certificate of insurance for general liability insurance. Uninsured workers can file for damages against the homeowner if injured on the job.

3. Get multiple bids – Get at least two bids from different solar thermal contractors, so you can compare the costs of installation. Don’t let price be your guide – remember that the lowest is not always the best.

4. Review past work and get a list of references – Call and pre-qualify several solar thermal contractors before selecting one. Request a reference from a previous satisfied customer or check review websites like Yelp.com or Kudzu.com to see what people are saying.

5. Get a written contract – Be sure to specify start and completion dates of your new solar thermal system – insist on a specified progressive payment schedule.

6. Review the contract before signing – do not sign under pressure. Ask for at least 48 hours to review the contract if needed.

7. Set a payment schedule – Do not pay cash and do not let payments get ahead of completed work. Never pay for work before it is done.

8. Do not pay more than 10% or $1,000 as a down payment – Keep the final 10% payment upon completion of the job.

9. Review the warranty details – make sure that there is a specific guideline provided by contractor or third-party.

10. Keep a job file – maintain a paper trail of receipts, permits and plans. You may need this information when submitting for local solar incentives or the 2010 30% federal tax credit.

Now that you have the tips, it’s time to begin the search for the solar installer that fits your needs – Good Luck!

Greg Brandmeier
Vaillant Solar Systems Marketing Coordinator

Tags: Solar Contractor, solar hot water, Solar Installer, solar thermal