Choosing a Solar Company Is One of the Biggest Decisions You'll Make

Going solar is a major investment in your home, your finances, and your future. And while the technology has gotten remarkably reliable, the company that installs your system matters more than most people realize.

The right installer gives you a system that performs beautifully for decades. The wrong one can leave you with headaches, hidden costs, and a system that underdelivers.

California has hundreds of solar companies — from massive national chains to small local operators. So how do you sort through the noise and find the right partner? Here's our honest guide.

1. Check Licensing and Credentials

This is non-negotiable. In California, solar installation requires a C-10 Electrical Contractor license or a C-46 Solar Contractor license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

What to Verify

• Active CSLB license: Look up the company at cslb.ca.gov — check that their license is current and in good standing
• No complaints or disciplinary actions: The CSLB database shows any filed complaints
• Workers' compensation and liability insurance: Protects you if anything goes wrong during installation
• NABCEP certification: Not required, but the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners certification signals serious commitment to quality

If a company can't show you their license number or dodges the question, walk away.

2. Understand Who's Actually Doing the Work

This is one of the most overlooked factors — and one of the most important.

Many solar companies, especially the big national brands, don't install the panels themselves. They sell the system, then hand the installation off to subcontractors who may or may not meet the same quality standards.

Questions to Ask

• Do you use your own installation crews or subcontractors?
• How are your installers trained and supervised?
• Who do I contact if there's an issue with the installation?

There's nothing inherently wrong with using subcontractors — many reputable companies do. What matters is accountability. You want a company that stands behind the installation whether they did it in-house or through a trusted partner.

At Everysun, we use our own trained installation crews. Every system is installed by people we know and trust, and we personally oversee every project from design to final inspection.

3. Evaluate Equipment Quality

Not all solar panels are created equal, and the equipment a company uses tells you a lot about their priorities.

Panels

• Efficiency: Look for panels rated 20%+ efficiency. Higher efficiency means more power from less roof space.
• Warranty: Top manufacturers offer 25-year product and performance warranties.
• Appearance: If aesthetics matter to you (they should — these will be on your roof for 25+ years), look for sleek all-black panels rather than the old-style blue-and-silver grid pattern.
• Country of origin: US-made panels often come with better supply chain reliability and quality control.

Inverters

• Microinverters vs. string inverters: Microinverters (one per panel) offer panel-level optimization and monitoring. String inverters are simpler but a single failure affects the whole system.
• Warranty length: 12–25 years depending on brand and type.

Battery Storage

If you're adding a battery system, ask about capacity, round-trip efficiency, warranty, and how well it integrates with the solar panels and your home's electrical system.

4. Look at Reviews and Reputation

In the age of the internet, there's no excuse for not researching a company's track record.

Where to Look

• Google Reviews: Look at both the overall rating and individual reviews. Pay attention to how the company responds to negative feedback.
• Yelp: Common in California for contractor reviews
• BBB (Better Business Bureau): Check for complaints and how they were resolved
• SolarReviews.com: Industry-specific review platform
• Nextdoor: Ask your neighbors for recommendations

Red Flags in Reviews

• Repeated complaints about communication after the sale
• Installation quality issues (leaks, loose wiring, cosmetic damage)
• Difficulty reaching the company for warranty service
• Aggressive or misleading sales tactics

5. Beware of High-Pressure Sales Tactics

The solar industry has a reputation problem — and high-pressure sales is a big reason why. Be cautious of any company that:

• Insists you sign today to get a "special price" that expires tomorrow
• Won't give you a written quote to take home and compare
• Focuses on monthly payments without clearly explaining total system cost
• Makes vague promises about savings without showing you the math
• Badmouths every other company instead of focusing on their own value
• Pushes PPAs or leases without explaining ownership options

A trustworthy solar company gives you information, answers your questions thoroughly, and gives you time to make a decision. Period.

6. Compare Quotes Carefully

Always get at least 2–3 quotes before committing. But don't just compare the bottom-line price — compare what you're getting.

What to Compare

• System size (kW): Are they proposing the right system for your needs?
• Equipment brands and models: Are they using quality panels and inverters?
• Price per watt: This is the most apples-to-apples comparison metric
• Warranty coverage: What's covered, for how long, and by whom?
• What's included: Permitting, engineering, monitoring, post-install support?
• Estimated production: How many kWh per year will the system produce?

The cheapest quote isn't always the best deal. A system installed with better equipment, stronger warranties, and more attentive service may save you more money over its lifetime — even if it costs a bit more upfront.

7. Ask About the Full Process

A great solar company is organized, communicative, and transparent about every step. Before signing, ask:

• What does the installation process look like from start to finish?
• How long will it take from contract to panels producing power?
• Who handles permitting and utility interconnection?
• Will I have a single point of contact throughout the project?
• What happens after installation — who do I call for support?

If the company can clearly walk you through their process and timeline, that's a good sign. If they're vague or evasive, that tells you something too.

8. Think Long-Term: Will This Company Be Around?

Your solar system will be on your roof for 25+ years. You want a company that will be around to honor warranties, answer questions, and provide service.

Signs of a Company That's Built to Last

• Multiple years of operation with consistent reviews
• Local presence (not just a national call center)
• Invested in the community — local offices, local crews
• Transparent about their business model and financials
• Growing through referrals and reputation, not just aggressive marketing

Why Everysun Is Different

We started Everysun with a simple belief: California homeowners deserve better than what the solar industry has been giving them. Too many broken promises, too many high-pressure sales pitches, too many companies that disappear after installation.

Here's what makes us different:

• Own installation crews: Every system is installed by our trained team — no anonymous subcontractors
• Premium equipment: We use high-efficiency, US-made all-black solar panels and top-tier inverters
• Scandinavian quality standards: Our founders built solar companies in Northern Europe, where quality isn't optional — it's the foundation
• Transparent pricing: We show you exactly what you're paying for and what you'll save. No games, no hidden fees.
• 20-year installation warranty: We don't just install and leave. We stand behind our work for decades.
• Local and accessible: We're based in Southern California and we're here to stay. When you call, a real person answers.

Ready to Find Your Solar Partner?

Choosing a solar company is a decision that will affect your home, your finances, and your energy independence for decades to come. Take your time, ask the hard questions, and choose a partner who earns your trust — not one who pressures you into it.

If you're in Los Angeles, Orange County, Glendale, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Pasadena, or anywhere in Southern California, we'd love the chance to show you what a great solar experience looks like.

Contact Everysun today for a free consultation. No pressure, no gimmicks — just honest answers and a solar system designed for your home.