Chose the right Contractor for your Solar Heating System

You are here

How to find the right Contractor for Your Solar Heating System

From brands to functionalities to costs, the task of purchasing a hot water system can be a daunting one for many. So where should you start?

There may be many options when it comes to buying a solar water system, but one needs to look at all the options in order to pick the best one that fits one's requirements and budget. There are numerous components involved in this type of solar power system, as well as its set-up options.  So do your homework on solar systems before you consult an installer and make appointments with at least a few installers before you begin.

Installers, like any professional, may have their own agenda. Every contractor has his or her own preference for a particular solar system and is going to advise installing that one. By the same token, contractors may get a cut or commission for every unit of a particular brand of solar system they install.

Nevertheless, there are many genuine and professional solar system contractors who can offer very good advice on the type of system that is best suited to your location, requirements and budget. And though it may take a few consultations (i.e., interviews) to find the right contractor, it is worth the effort considering you will be living with the system for (hopefully) many years.

What to Look For in a Contractor

From the start, you should feel comfortable with the contractor in your discussions and consultation sessions. If you do not trust and appreciate him/her or accept his/her advice and recommendations, then it’s probably time to look for another contractor.

It is quite common to be presented with a few solar system choices that you were not previously familiar with, even after you have done a thorough investigation of the most current available systems. You may also find yourself doing more research after deciding on a system because something else sounds better than the one you wanted. Of course, it can be daunting work to decide on a proper water heating system, but it is all well worth it in the end. Even with a basic understanding of solar systems and how each system works, you will be well equipped to sit down and confidently discuss different solar systems with a contractor and know when you are getting the right answers.

If at any point you feel doubtful about your knowledge, or about how the contractor is presenting this new knowledge to you, you can always reschedule a further consultation with the contractor so that you have time to research the new information to your own satisfaction.

By being a knowledgeable consumer, and by being prepared with intelligent questions and suggestions in your discussions, you are gaining the respect of the contractor. Being well informed on solar systems will also impress your neighbors, friends, family, and curious passers-by who see the strange new piece of equipment on your roof and ask you to talk about it. In fact, your newfound knowledge could help convince others