Typical Terms & Warranties

Make sure the bids you receive are based on the same criteria. Where the system will be installed, warranties and hardware can all affect price. Solar water heating system bids should estimate the energy the system will save annually in kilowatt hours or therms. Solar electric system bids should state system size in watts or kilowatts, and estimate the electricity the system will produce yearly. Both should include all costs associated with the project, including hardware, installation, permitting and warranties.

Ask for a copy of the standard contract terms from the contractors you are considering and compare them. Trade Allies of the Energy Trust, for instance, are required to provide a minimum two year warranty covering all repairs resulting from defects in equipment or workmanship.

Equipment manufacturers typically provide longer warranties.

>>Click here for an example of terms and warranties from SolarWorld.

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