It is no surprise that many individuals are opting for solar power systems in their homes and offices. As a result of this increase in the industry, many new installers are emerging daily.

If you are thinking of starting a new career in this field, there are certain things you need to learn. Therefore, in this article, we will share with you 5 tips that will help you in your journey.

Tips You Should Apply as a New Solar Installer

Several tips will help you become a top solar installer; however, the following are the top tips we have chosen that will no doubt help you succeed in the industry.

1. Become Acquainted with the Terminologies of Solar Panel

An expert in any field is expected to know the lingo of that field. Therefore, you need to become acquainted with the terminologies that are related to solar panels. This is vital for the following reasons.

First of all, it will enable you to not only read but also understand the installation manuals of products.

Secondly, you might find it challenging to get certain permits if you don’t know certain required terminology.

Furthermore, when you get clients, it is expected that they will ask questions about the installation and the panel types used. Giving vague answers without definitely naming certain items will show that you are a novice. Such a situation can cause you to lose your clients.

To get better acquainted with important terminologies, we advise that you read articles, manuals, and specification sheets. Also, you can follow some experts on their official twitter page, Facebook page, or other social media handles. When they create new posts, you are bound to learn something new.

2. Study Terminologies of PV Battery

Not only do you need to know the terminologies of solar panels, but you also need to know those of PV batteries as well. These days, many folks install these batteries as part of the solar power system to serve as energy storage units.

Hence, it is important that as an installer, you know the terminologies associated with these storage units. When you do this, you become better equipped to answer the questions that clients might throw at you.

3. Improve your Skills

Installation of solar power systems is a complex and technical job that requires certain skills to perform. Hence, having the right skill set will ensure that you not only attract clients, but you are also able to install the system without any problem.

The following are some of the skills that you need to improve if you want to be relevant in this field:

i. Experience

We know that you are just starting out as an installer and you might have read all the books and materials available; however, you still need practical experience. Many clients will not hire a technician without experience.

Since this is the case, how then do you gather the necessary experience, you might ask? Well, you can go to a practical training course or a local workshop. Another option is to work in an NPO (non-profit organization) as a volunteer.

The best option that many go for is to work for an already established organization before branching out to work alone. You can as well combine all the options we have shared. The options we have provided will give you the required experience to operate independently.

ii. Safety Protocols

You must have safety protocols in place that will ensure the safety of the worksite. Following OSHA standards as well as enacting measures to prevent falls and accidents is a must.

iii. Sales

There is no business without sales. Therefore, you need to implement strategies that will generate leads which can then be converted to sales. A great website can be integral in generating leads and thereby leading to sales.

iv. Customer Service

With great customer service in place, you can gain referrals and build a great reputation. Hence, you need to prompt to respond to calls, emails, etc. Ensure that you meet up with deadlines, communicate clearly with your clients, and also deliver high-quality jobs. All these will enhance your reputation in the industry.

4. Get All the Required Certifications

Depending on your location, there are certain required certifications and licensing that an installer must have. Therefore, before you begin the business, find out what certifications and licenses are required in the state you are operating within.

With the right certifications, licenses, and insurances, you can build trust with potential and existing customers as well as manufacturers you might partner with.

5. Know the Local and State Incentives and Regulations

You need to find out what the permitting requirements, local rebates, and incentives are in the local and state government you want to operate in before you start the business.

If the location you are in has more incentives apart from the federal tax credit, then you need to let your clients know this by putting them on your feasibility studies and proposals.

Find out about the siting requirements of the state and local building codes. Doing all these will make you well-equipped for any kind of job you come across.

Conclusion

There is a great prospect for anyone who wants to become a solar installer. However, there are certain things such individuals need to know. Therefore, in the article above, we have discussed 5 tips for solar installers that will help even a novice succeed in this ever-growing field.