When you have completed your research and reached the decision that you want to seriously consider installing a home solar power system for hot water or for electricity, it is the time to contact a local installer.

You should locate an installer who

• is on the register of qualified installers (many states and countries now have these)
• is willing to show you or direct you to homes where they have installed a solar power system
• can demonstrate a history of satisfied customers through testimonials or other means
• is willing to sit down with you to determine the size, type and design of your home solar power system
• can advise you how to qualify for a grant or rebate
• can assist you to work your way through any regulatory procedures
• can offer you a reliable guarantee for workmanship and products
• knows you area well

Find an installer through your local directory or on the internet and then use the above checklist to pre-qualify your short list of installers.

As you would with any major purchase, get more than one quotation before you begin the work. Make sure you schedule the work for the optimum time of the year.

If you are hoping for a grant, make sure your appropriate agency has not run out of funding. Sometimes they do!   For more information on Grants and Rebates, go here.

Updated 25 June 2007