People have asked is whether we install “Solar Kits” that some home improvement businesses and online dealers sell at good prices.
The short answer is no, and there are several reasons.
First, most of the “kits” we’ve looked at are anything but complete. Racking, grounding, disconnects, wiring, and other components are often missing. Customers are very disappointed to learn this, often after the purchase has been made – ouch!
Second, we would never recommend the components that are in the kits, and therefore we can’t support them. If we install it, we own it as a support issue going forward.
Since we install a lot of grid-tied, battery backup systems, we also field a good many calls about certain online businesses selling grid-tied, battery backup systems that they describe as “plug-and-play”. Our electricians will be surprised to learn this, because we find that even the most experienced electricians we bring on board take a number of installs to become comfortable with the technology and installation techniques we use.
If someone describes a bimodal solar system to you as plug-and-play, it’s time to move on to a qualified vendor.
Caveat emptor, my friends.