With summer arriving, homeowners are looking for new ways to go green. And they might find solar energy as the perfect alternative.
While it can help save the environment with the added benefit of saving a little money, too, the Better Business Bureau is warning homeowners to be smart about investing in any type of improvement project.
While there are a number of home improvement scams that exist, solar energy scams are one that many may not be familiar with, the BBB said. Fraudulent contractors prey on those who are unfamiliar with the product, with issues ranging from installation to the actual panels themselves.
In 2013, consumers contacted the BBB nearly 84,000 times about solar energy equipment and systems dealers. The organization also received 259 complaints on solar energy dealers that ranged from contract and service issues, to customer service problems.
“Consumers need to be familiar with solar panels and how the benefits will affect them before investing their money,” said Karen Nalven, president of BBB Serving West Florida, in a release. “It’s especially important for homeowners to do their research before hiring a contractor to install solar energy products.”
There are a number of state and federal rebates that offer a reduction in the initial costs of solar products. However, consumers should be wary of the less-than-reputable and unqualified contractors that come into town offering such services at discount prices.
The BBB offers the following tips when investing in solar energy:
- Discuss with the electric company. Due to the high costs associated with the initial investment of solar power, it is important to conduct a self-energy audit to determine if solar energy is even right for a home. If a monthly bill, for example, is less than $100, there may be other ways to save energy that costs less.
Also, be sure to ask about the local, state and federal laws concerning the standards and codes of the solar panels.
- Solar energy requires sun. Find out an average how many sunny days a home sees annually. As with every product or service, comparison shop with several businesses to ensure getting the best deal.
- Inquire about tax credits. Found out the amount of tax credits offered for the amount of energy that is generated. Ask about the length of time it takes to receive the tax credits, and if the credits themselves will be taxed.
- Settle the details. Be cautious of installers that promise no out-of-pocket costs prior to reviewing specific situations. Be wary if an installer suggests obtaining credit for the full amount of the system, even though they are promising very low or no costs due to rebates.
Ask what will happen if the business promises a certain percentage of savings from a utility bill, but the amount of savings is not achieved.
- Make sure the roof is equipped to sustain a solar panel system. Even though a properly installed solar system will not damage a roof, making sure the roof is in good condition before beginning the installation can help avoid any future problems.
For more about the Better Business Bureau, visit BBB.org.
