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Ten Questions To Ask A Solar Installer

May 30, 2026 · 6 min read

Solar sales moves fast. These questions slow it down to a pace where you can compare like with like.

On the numbers

Ask for the estimated annual production in kilowatt-hours, the assumptions behind it, and whether there is a production guarantee in writing. Ask what utility rate escalation the savings model assumes — an optimistic escalator can make a mediocre system look excellent.

On the equipment and warranties

Panels, inverters and batteries carry separate warranties, and workmanship coverage is separate again. Find out who honors each one and for how long.

  • Panel product and performance warranty length
  • Inverter warranty and replacement cost
  • Workmanship and roof penetration coverage
  • Who services the system after install

On the process

Ask who pulls permits, who handles utility interconnection, how long approval typically takes locally, and what the payment schedule looks like against those milestones.

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