Posts Tagged ‘solar installers’

3 Solar Estimate Red Flags- How To Spot Them

October 23rd, 2009

maryland_solar_estimateHere are 3 solar estimate red flags you need to know about if you are considering a Maryland solar installation.

1. Poor Specifications.

You should know what you are buying, right? I can’t tell you how many times people considering solar in Maryland hand me a solar installation estimate that lacks the necessary specifications and details. These people have no idea what they are actually buying! How many solar panels will be installed? What size tank comes with your new solar water heater? The point is…know what you are buying.

2. Failure To Include Required Solar Installation Permits.

Inexperienced solar installers forget or are not familiar with the required solar installation permits. Shady solar installers will intentionally leave out permits to reduce costs. This will cause a major problem for you (read this post on solar building permits).

3. Inflated Tax Incentive Expectations.

Maryland solar tax incentives are terrific, but don’t let a slick solar salesperson exaggerate the reality. Click here for Maryland solar tax incentive information.

Choosing The Right Maryland Solar Company

October 17th, 2009

 Choosing The Right Maryland Solar CompanyAs the popularity of solar panel installations in Maryland grows the number of Maryland solar companies increases. More solar companies in Maryland is good for the solar industry and good for Maryland. More solar companies mean more solar panel installations in Maryland which will help reduce our dependence on fossil fuel. The downside is with more solar companies starting up in Maryland come more unscrupulous solar installers and people looking to make a quick buck.

As a Maryland homeowner there are many things you need to watch out for as you select the right Maryland solar company for you. Choosing a reputable solar company in Maryland is a lot like choosing a home improvement company. It is important that you learn how to tell the difference between an unscrupulous, fly-by-night solar installer and a qualified solar company.

Many of the same rules for selecting a trustworthy home improvement contractor apply when screening solar installation companies. For example: Do they have good references? What type of home improvement experience do they have? How many solar installations have they performed?

Here is today’s Maryland solar installation tip. Maryland solar companies that primarily install solar electric panels are usually not the best choice for a solar water heater installation. Solar electric panels and solar water heating panels are very different in terms of the skill sets required for a top quality solar installation. If you are considering a solar company that installs both types of solar panels you must make sure they have extensive experience in the specific type of solar installation you are considering and can provide you with references.