Solar pool heating, explained
How collectors warm your pool, how to size them, and why a pool cover matters.
1. Who will actually install my system?
Many solar companies sell the job and hand it to a subcontractor. Ask whether the crew on your roof works for the company you're signing with, and who supervises them.
2. Which license covers the work?
Ask for the contractor's license details and check them with your state's licensing board. The license should cover solar and electrical work, not just roofing.
3. Is every cost in writing?
A good quote lists equipment, labour, permits, engineering, monitoring and any roof work. Be cautious of "free solar" offers or quotes that leave costs vague.
4. How did you size the system?
The system should be based on your last 12 months of electricity use, your roof and how long you plan to stay. Bigger isn't automatically better.
5. What do the warranties cover?
Ask about three separate warranties: panel and inverter manufacturer warranties, and the installer's workmanship and roof-leak guarantee.
6. Who handles permits, inspection and the utility?
Your installer should handle permits, the inspection and the utility interconnection paperwork for you.
7. Who do I call when something goes wrong?
Ask whether the company services its own systems, how quickly it responds, and whether it repairs systems installed by others. That tells you a lot about its plans to stick around.
8. Are you comfortable with me taking my time?
A trustworthy installer will happily let you compare quotes. Pressure to sign today is a reason to walk away.
The short version
Choose an installer who does their own work, puts everything in writing, sizes the system to your real usage and will still answer the phone in ten years.