Choosing the right solar contractor is a big decision that demands careful research. With so many options out there, it's understandable to feel overwhelmed. Separating the trustworthy solar installers from the unreliable can seem like an uphill battle. But choosing an experienced partner at the beginning ensures you get the most out of your solar panels–without the anxiety. At Citadel, your trust and satisfaction are our priorities. 

In this blog, we'll discuss:

• The various types of solar companies
• How to distinguish the contenders from the pretenders
• Tips on how to find a trustworthy solar installer

The Solar Installer Struggle Is Real

While many solar companies advertise installation as a simple process, the reality is that there are many details to coordinate and potential roadblocks to navigate. However, when you partner with a reputable full-service company, many potential headaches can be avoided entirely. The right solar partner will expertly guide you through the process from start to finish. With a full-service solar company managing the logistics, your journey really can be hassle-free. You'll have proper expectations set, be kept informed at every step, and have a positive experience to reflect back on. 

Understanding the Solar Landscape

When deciding which company to go with, it’s important to know what types of solar companies are out there. Customers often are surprised to learn that various types of solar companies exist. 

• Sales-only teams: 
  These companies don’t install solar panels themselves. They sell the systems and partner with third-party installation crews.
  
  
• Install-only teams: 
  On the flip side, these teams are focused solely on physical installation work. They don't handle any of the sales, system design, or permitting.
  
  
• Financiers:
  These are lenders that will finance your solar energy system installation. In some cases, they partner with solar companies or installers directly.
  
  
• Lead generators: 
  These companies find customers interested in solar and then sell their data to solar companies. Sometimes, your data is even sold to multiple companies at once.
  
  
• Full-Service Solar Teams:
  Full-service solar teams handle every aspect in-house, from sales and system design to permitting and installation.

You need a company with the perfect balance of size and experience – large enough to ensure longevity in servicing your system, yet small enough to deliver personalized attention and top-notch service. Citadel prides itself on offering customers exceptional end-to-end experiences; we'll be by your side through every stage of the process, from beginning to end.

How to Separate the Pretenders from the Contenders

• Research the company's history. Make sure you choose a solar partner with a proven track record as well as the necessary credentials and licensing. Be sure to check online reviews from past customers. At Citadel, we’ve been installing solar for over 25 years, and our licensing number is displayed on every page of our website, which should be standard practice.
  
• Compare equipment. Solar panels and battery backup systems vary significantly in quality and performance. When considering ownership of your solar system instead of leasing or PPA, it's crucial to inquire about the particular solar panel, inverter, and battery models being utilized.
• Get multiple quotes. Compare the proposed equipment brands, solar panel/inverter warranties, financing terms, and installation costs.
• Compare warranties. Look for performance guarantees that specify expected energy production over the system's lifetime. With Citadel, you get premium roofing and solar products backed by industry-leading warranties.
• See what services are offered. Find out what services are available, such as roof repairs and replacements, electrical work, and energy storage installations. Choosing a full-service company will generally result in more robust warranties– and fewer headaches.     
  
  

  Red Flags to Watch Out For

• High-pressure sales tactics–A reputable solar company's goal should be to educate and empower you, not bombard you with aggressive sales tactics commonly used by door-to-door salesmen, also known as "door-knockers". Trusted solar providers understand the importance of giving you space to conduct your research so that you can confidently make an informed decision.
• Pricing that seems too good to be true–As with most things in life, if a solar company's prices seem too good to be true, they probably are. While costs can vary from company to company, if one quote dramatically undercuts another’s pricing without logical explanation, it could indicate cutting corners on equipment, labor, warranties, or a potential scam. 
• They don't employ an in-house installation team–For such a large investment, you want a solar company that keeps every aspect of the process under their direct control and accountability. Third-party installation crews sometimes create unnecessary risk. With companies that lack in-house trained teams, workmanship, and quality control issues can be a problem.
• Promised savings that sound unrealistic–While solar can certainly save you thousands over the long run, be skeptical of solar companies promising significantly higher savings than other companies. Every home's savings potential is different based on numerous factors. If a company is promising savings that sound unrealistic before even doing an estimate, it's likely a ploy to get you to sign up.
• You haven't seen a full copy of the contract. Reputable companies will provide the complete contract for you to thoroughly review before signing. Take your time to read the fine print and understand what you will be financially responsible for.
• They promise incentives you don't qualify for. Many solar incentives apply only if you own the system outright. If leasing or under a power purchase agreement, you may not be eligible for those incentives despite what the company claims.
• There’s a low ‘teaser rate.’ Beware of low initial payments that can increase down the line. These escalator clauses are a scammy ploy that can lock you into rising costs.

Trust your gut. If a company can’t answer straightforward questions or takes days to get back to you before you’ve even become a customer, things probably won’t change after you’ve signed a contract.

What Sets Citadel Apart?

Industry Recognition:

• Trusted Partner for Homebuilders: We are the go-to partner for over eighty of the largest homebuilders in the nation when it comes to installing solar for new communities.
• Awards for Excellence in Solar and Roofing Installation: Over the past two years, our dedication to excellence in the solar industry has been recognized with prestigious awards, including  REC 2022 Solar Installer of the Year, 2023 Top Solar Contractor, and GAF President's Club Residential Award Winner. In 2023, we proudly achieved the #9 ranking among the nation's best solar companies in the nation, a clear testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Longevity and Reliability

• Long-term warranties:
  Unlike many roofing and solar companies, we have over 35 years of industry experience. This longevity reflects our commitment to honoring our promises and providing long-term warranties.
  
  
• In-House Team of Experts: 
  Unlike many other companies that rely on subcontractors or third-party crews, we conduct all our work through our dedicated in-house team of solar experts. This ensures a seamless and high-quality experience from the initial consultation to the final system inspection.
  
  
• Comprehensive Licensing:
  While most solar companies hold only a solar license, we boast licenses in solar, electrical, roofing, insulation, and general building contracting, 
  ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and standards.
  
  
• Foundational Principles: Established on the principle that there is a precise method to integrate a solar energy system into a roof, emphasizing the expertise essential in the industry, we abide by "The Citadel Way" coined by our visionary founder, Dieter Folk.
  
  

Decades of Experience:

• With over 35 years of experience providing roofing and over 25 years of providing solar services across California, we have established ourselves as a trusted name in the industry. We bring a wealth of experience to every project.
  
  
• Large-Scale Installations: Over the years, we have completed over 65,000 roofing, solar, and energy storage installations. In the last eight years alone, we have successfully installed over 30,000 solar systems and 2,000 energy storage systems, solidifying our reputation as one of the industry's most prolific installers.
  
  

Customer Service:

• Tailored Guidance and Transparency: Our team of solar experts provides personalized guidance tailored to each home's unique requirements. Throughout the process, we maintain full transparency, keeping you informed every step of the way. 
  
  
• Personalized approach: As a family-owned company founded on family values, we prioritize a personalized approach tailored to cater exclusively to the needs of California residents. Our team of solar experts provides personalized guidance tailored to each home's unique requirements. Throughout the process, we maintain full transparency, keeping you informed every step of the way. From consultation to installation to follow-up support, we treat every customer like a VIP, offering white-glove service and open communication throughout the entire process.
  
  
• High Customer Satisfaction: We have garnered over 500 five-star reviews across various online platforms, including Google and Yelp, attesting to our dedication to customer satisfaction. 
  

Take the first step towards an exceptional solar experience with a free quote from Citadel today!