How to Choose a Solar Company: Red and Green Flags to Consider

As more homeowners become aware of the benefits of solar power, the demand for solar companies has skyrocketed. However, with so many solar installers to choose from, knowing how to choose a solar company can be tricky.

Learn about red and green flags to consider when choosing a solar company, as well as how Monalee has shifted the industry to be more transparent, economical, and efficient.

What to avoid when choosing a solar company

Lack of transparency

Beware of companies that aren’t straightforward about their pricing, warranties, or installation processes. Transparency is crucial in the solar industry to ensure you fully understand what you’re getting into—especially since going solar is a multifaceted process.

High-pressure sales tactics

Look out for companies that have aggressive sales tactics or pressure you into deciding on the spot. Some may even resort to knocking on homeowners’ doors who weren’t even considering solar. If a company tries to sell you on guaranteed savings, or salesmen offer special programs that pay you to go solar, consider this a major red flag. 

A reputable solar company will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision at your own pace. With Monalee, our system allows you to generate your quote so we know you’re interested. 

Unclear financing options

If a company isn’t transparent about financing options or tries to push you toward a specific financing plan without explaining alternatives, it could be a sign of hidden costs or unfavorable terms. Evaluate interest rates, repayment terms, and any associated fees that’ll help you align with your financial goals.

Negative customer reviews

Before making a decision, research the company’s reputation online. Negative reviews or complaints about poor installation or performance are a big red flag and an indicator that you should work with a different installer.

Poor customer service

Just as important as positive customer reviews is a positive customer service experience. As you begin connecting with a solar company, pay attention to their customer service team. If the company doesn’t respond promptly to your queries or concerns, it could be a sign of a poor customer experience down the road.

What to look for when choosing a solar company

Transparent pricing and process

Choose a solar company that prioritizes transparency and educates customers about the entire solar installation process, equipment used, and expected savings. There shouldn’t be any mystery around the work being done on your home.

Also, if the company uses subcontractors, find out which portions of the project they’ll handle and what supervision the installer will provide.

Licensing and insurance

Ensure the solar company you opt for has all the necessary business licenses and insurance policies. A gold standard certification for solar installers is the PV Installation Professional Certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

Other typical licenses for solar installers include electrician, general contracting, home improvement, or home performance contracting licenses. 

Experience and expertise

Since the solar industry is complex and constantly evolving, it’s essential to choose an installer with a reputable history. The solar company you go with should be an expert in solar energy systems, with a team of skilled technicians and an established installation process. They should also know how to analyze your energy usage and find the best, most personalized solar system for your home.

Strong warranties and guarantees

A dependable solar company will stand behind its products and installation work with comprehensive warranties and performance guarantees. Be sure to inquire about warranty terms and what’s covered before making a decision.

Think about post-installation support, too. Should you have any questions or concerns, you want a company that’s ready to offer support. 

Positive customer reviews

A trustworthy solar company will have a track record of satisfied customers and be willing to provide references upon request. Positive reviews and testimonials serve as indicators of a company’s reliability and excellent workmanship.

How Monalee is different

Knowing how to choose a solar company doesn’t have to be a daunting process as long as you know what to avoid and what to look for. At Monalee, we’ve made it our mission to rise ahead of the future of solar through transparency, speed, and efficiency. With advanced machine learning—which removes salespeople and system designers from the process—we’re able to secure the top solar panel systems at half the price compared to the top traditional solar companies in the country. We save our customers valuable time and money while providing a top-tier service every step of the way.