Recently, we met with the local rural electric co-op to discuss solar installations in their territory. The co-op has given approval for many installations over the past 10 years with the work being completed by various installation companies. While the co-op cannot recommend certain vendors over others, in recent years, they have encouraged people to come and talk with us before doing an installation or when they need repairs done to their systems. They know we are conscientious and do quality work. The same cannot be said for others and this can result in a sloppy or even dangerous installation!
A poorly installed system can lead to serious issues such as roof leaks, fire hazards from loose connections or incorrect cable size, fire hazards from micro-fractures, poor system performance, or damaged infrastructure. Any of these issues can lead to reduced energy output, costly repairs, or even dangerous electrical damage and fires, often resulting from cheap work or unqualified installers.
Our service department has responded to some sites where sub-par work was done. Many unsafe scenarios have been found, as well as, situations where electrical code was entirely ignored. In a couple of unfortunate cases, this negligence resulted in fires.
The first picture above shows modules that were improperly mounted. The modules blew off the rails during a storm and damaged wiring. The result (seen in the second photo) – fires inside the inverters tied to the system.
The third picture above shows DC wiring from a roof-top solar array passing through the AC disconnect for the system. This is a code violation. Some installers are lazy and while others are just not trained as they should be. Either way, the end result can involve serious issues.
The code violation in the third picture was just one of many violations on that installation. The company who did the installation is now out of business and has filed bankruptcy, so this installation owner has no recourse and is stuck with a loan payment on a system that was not completed or installed properly!
This is why it is so important to do your homework before selecting your solar installer. Whether you’re spending $10,000 for a residential system or $1,000,000 for a commercial installation, there are some important precautions you can take.
Please ask for references! Companies should happily give you references for their past work. At GAI we will provide at least two or three people who can vouch for our work and work ethic. We will even take potential clients to view our work at previous sites to verify the quality of the install.
There are too many contractors out there who just want to make a quick buck and move on. Please make sure you are doing your due diligence and thoroughly checking out the companies you might be talking to on a project. Anyone can create a great looking facade on Google, so look beyond a five star review and talk to real customers or go check out their past installations.
If you’re in the northern Indiana area and would like to talk with our qualified experts here at GAI, we are happy to help you reach your energy goals. Contact us today.
VP & Director of Sales at Green Alternatives, Inc.
Cindy started as a consultant with Green Alternatives in 2009 and has moved into her current position within the last few years. She loves meeting with potential clients, answering their questions, and ultimately designing a PV solar system that meets their needs and goals.