Installation Guide
The Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA) provides a list of individuals who are certifed solar hot water installers. SolarBC does not warranty the performance of any of these installers and does not monitor their installations. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to do due diligence to ensure that a qualified installer is used for the installation. SolarBC recommends that homeowners note the Best Practice Guidelines shown below; thoroughly research suitably qualified installers, and make enquiries with at least three companies.
Your decision to install solar hot water should include the same considerations as those involved in purchasing any new appliance or home renovation.
Best practice guidelines for choosing
an installer that is right for you
Reputable solar hot water installers should carry a minimum of $2M dollars general liability insurance, and provide standard industry warranties of 10 years for collectors, five years for solar hot water tanks and one year on labour, as a minimum.
Installers should also be familiar with the building and plumbing permit requirements for your area. They should apply for all relevant permits and leave copies with you on completion of the work.
Your consultation with installers should include a visit to your home so they can make an accurate estimate of the installation cost and help you make the final decision on where the collectors and the storage tank should be placed.
When making enquiries, you should consider finding out more about the following:
- The installers reputation and experience;
- Examine the warranties provided, make sure you ask to see copies. Industry standards should include a minimum provide 10 years on collectors, five years on tanks and one year for parts and labour;
- Ask for references, photos or to view completed installations;
- Inquire about follow-up service arrangements;
- Try and obtain at least three written cost estimates;
- Check the list of companies who are CanSIA certified to install solar hot water.
Questions to ask installers
(Download the following list of questions here.)
Specific to your installation:
- How long will it take for the equipment to be ordered and delivered
- How long will the installation process take?
- When do you expect to begin and fully complete this project?
- Who can I contact if I have any questions?
- Who cleans up after the job is finished?
- Will we need any building or plumbing permits for this project?
- Will you provide written warranties on materials and workmanship?
- What happens if I change my mind?
- What kind of deposit do you require and is any of it refundable?
- What is the exact schedule of payments to be made?
- Besides materials and labour, does your estimate include sales tax, permit fees, structural analysis fees, and shipping costs?
- How soon can you respond to a service call if my solar system is not working properly?
- How do I apply for any grants?
About the installer's company:
- What is your street address and contact information?
- How long have you been in business?
- How many projects like mine have you completed in the past year? In the past three years?
- May I have a list of references for those projects?
- Will the work be carried out by a CanSIA or NABCEP certified installer?
- What other training do you provide for your employees?
- What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business?
- Are you a member of CanSIA association?
- Were you a SolarBC Registered Installer and how many jobs did you complete under their program?
Summarize your feelings about the installer:
- Does the installer appear to be knowledgeable?
- Does the installer appear to be someone who hears what your needs and wants are?
- Does the installer appear to have a genuine concern for your needs?
- Can you communicate effectively with the installer?
- Do you feel confident and comfortable with the installer approach?
(The material above has been adapted from: Solar Water Heating Systems: a Buyer’s Guide, published by Natural Resources Canada.)
