What features should I look for when purchasing a home solar power system?
Question by Greg H: What features should I look for when purchasing a home solar power system?
Just wondering if some experts out there could give some advice on what to features to look for and to “look out” for when purchasing and having installed a home solar power system. Of course I know sizing it properly is a big issue. However, are there certain brands of the various components that should or should not be used, etc.
What do you think? Answer below!
One Response to What features should I look for when purchasing a home solar power system?
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The biggest things to look out for is making sure the installer is qualified, and the equipment is UL Listed. Unfortunately, there are a lot of people out there now claiming to be installers, but have never done it before, or have no training and are doing it wrong. It’s not the same as regular house electrical work, not just any electrician can do it.
NABCEP is an organization that certifies solar installers. They have to have years of experience and lots of training to even be able to sit for the exam. Just because an installer isn’t certified, doesn’t mean they aren’t good, but having the certification is a great way to be sure they know what they are doing. If you don’t have a certified installer in your area, try to find an installer who has done a number of installs and talk to their references.
As far as equipment, any reputable installer will use quality equipment. It has to be UL Listed to pass inspection, so unless this is their first, they’ll know the good stuff.
Amy
May 28, 2011 at 5:29 pm