At Virtue Solar, we understand the importance of trust, reliability, and quality when it comes to choosing a solar company. With over a decade of experience in the industry, we firmly believe that solar energy is not just a solid investment but also one of the best ways to reduce our environmental impact while adding equity to your home. However, we also recognize the prevalence of solar scams and the need for homeowners to be vigilant when selecting a solar provider.
Recognizing Red Flags
One of the most common warning signs of a potential solar scam is door-to-door sales tactics. Companies that employ door-knocking often use pushy sales techniques to pressure homeowners into making quick decisions without seeking second opinions. This is a deliberate strategy, as these companies typically offer subpar prices and services compared to reputable, vetted companies.
Another red flag to watch out for is salesmen who focus solely on monthly payments rather than discussing the overall system price. While monthly payment estimates may seem enticing, they can be easily manipulated to create the illusion of savings, regardless of the actual cost of the system. Unfortunately, many homeowners have fallen victim to inflated prices, paying upwards of $60,000 to $70,000 for solar systems that should cost half that amount (See our article on how much solar costs for more info).
Understanding Misleading Solar Sales Practices
- Solar designs and production estimates require extensive training and experience for accuracy.
- Factors such as 3D shade calculations, weather data, and accurate modeling are crucial for precise estimates.
- Estimated savings can vary based on the projected cost of electricity,with some companies overestimating future energy costs to inflate predicted savings.
- Proposed savings include an annal energy escalation percentage (%). This should typically be set to the annual inflation rate, but is often manipulated.
- Overestimating the production of a solar system by a salesman can significantly impact the return on investment.
- Choosing a reputable company like Virtue Solar, which utilizes advanced technology like LIDAR for precise roof measurements and employs NABCEP PVIP certified system designers, ensures accurate designs and production estimates.
See our guide on How to Compare Solar Quotes for a deeper dive into these factors!
Choosing a Trustworthy Solar Company
When selecting a solar company, it’s essential to prioritize transparency, reliability, and integrity. Here are some tips to help you choose the right solar provider:
- Research: Take the time to research different solar companies in your area. Look for customer reviews, testimonials, and ratings on platforms like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google, and Reddit.
- Get a Second Opinion: Don’t settle for the first offer you receive. Get quotes from other companies to compare prices, services, and warranties. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid overpaying for your solar system.
- Quality & Experience Matter: A quality installation takes good components, and a team with experience. Making a rushed decision today is likely to lead to headaches and expenses down the road. Make sure your installer provides service and maintenance, and make sure you understand those costs.
- Verify Credentials: Make sure the company is properly licensed, and insured. This ensures that they meet the necessary requirements to perform solar installations safely and legally. In Virginia, you can verify licenses on DPOR. They should have an AES certification, and a contractor’s license.
- Avoid Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of companies that use high-pressure sales tactics or try to rush you into signing contracts. Take your time to make a decision that’s right for you and your home.
Building a Lasting Relationship
Signing a contract with a solar company should be the start of a relationship, not just a transaction. Solar systems have long lifecycles, and it’s imperative to choose an installer that stands behind their product.
At Virtue Solar, we offer a 25-year residential service warranty to ensure that our solar systems are well-maintained and continue to save you money. We understand the importance of providing ongoing support and service to our customers, building trust and confidence for years to come.
