Solar Installer Reviews

Custom Solar and Leisure

Custom Solar and Leisure Review

4.14

5 Reviews

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Company Information

Headquarters:
4434 E Glenn Tucson, AZ 85712 United States
Inverters Used:
SolarEdge
Equipment Warranty:
25 Years

All Reviews


ConsumerTechAdvocate | Tucson, Arizona
06/01/2018

Highly recommend Custom Solar & Leisure. Their system Price & Size of system beat both SunCity(Tesla) & SunPower. After several months of intensive research: 1st bid from SunCity(almost 60% negative reviews) which had terrible contract/agreement=Refused to spell out details(panel make & model#) of system for which I was to pay a ($1k+) premium for High-End Panasonic Panels & several thousand $$ more for a 1.15kW smaller system. 2nd was SunPower(oldest & currently troubled according to industry news article) which wanted over $6k more for their 0.15kW smaller system. Both companies included inverters with just 10year warranties. 3rd CustomSolar&Leisure(highly rated 5Star) gave me the system I wanted, including moving all single-pole(110V) breakers inside the garage into a new sub-panel, leaving double-pole(220V) breakers in original outside panel. Now if I trip a breaker I no longer have to get dressed & go outside in the dark or rain, but just go into the secure garage to reset it. I opted for the LG Neon High-End Panels & Enphase Microinverters, both with 25-Year Warranties. RESEARCH indicated that Solar Panels are MOST efficient at 77degrees & each panel therefore has a thermal coefficient associated with it. As the temp rises above 77degrees, they produce less power, so those panels with the lowest/smallest thermal coefficient(temp penalty) produce the most power at higher temps compared to cheaper panels. Best panels as of Feb-2018 are LG-Neon, SunPower, & Panasonic(model specific) with 0.029-0.030 thermal coefficients. Microinverters are worth the added cost as they have warranties that are 2.5 times longer(25years) than standard inverters(10years) & allow for individual panel power output/generation monitoring. In addition microinverters allow for continued operation of all remaining panels if one panel goes bad, as each panel has it's own microinverter attached to the back of the panel. Along with the new electric sub-panel I had the monitoring panel/equipment installed inside the garage to hopefully extend it's lifespan as it won't be exposed to the elements(rain & high 100-117 degree Tucson summers). CustomSolar&Leisure was very accommodating with my request for garage sub-panel & microinverters, whereas the other two were more take our high-priced system as is or we will charge you substantially more if you want any customization. PLUS Custom Solar & Leisure is a locally owned company with all the benefits accruing to our local economy.

isip | Tucson, Arizona
03/19/2018

I give Custom Solar and Leisure my strongest recommendation. When starting my solar project, I got estimates from 6 different Tucson solar companies. I did my research. First, I was impressed to learn that the owner of Customer Solar, Jeff Shoemaker, served on the Southern Arizona Regional Solar Partnership committee. This shows his personal dedication to the solar field. Jeff has been in the solar business more than most, so he has lots of experience. He runs a small family business, which I like to support in our community. During the estimate process, Custom Solar was professional, knowledgeable and flexible with my project needs. For example, they went the extra step of installing the inverter in my garage, at my request, even though it required extra work. They did not charge me extra for this. When Custom Solar came to do the work, everyone on their crew was great. We did run into a couple minor hiccups but they were resolved to my satisfaction immediately. As for price, I doubt you will find a better price than Custom Solar, in addition to their high quality work. I could not find a better price in all of Tucson, believe me, I tried! My project was for 24 panels. If you thinking of doing a solar project, contact Jeff and Custom Solar, you will be happy you did!!!

Tanque Verde Homeowner | Tucson, Arizona
03/13/2017

I had a 32-panel 8 kW system installed on my home in 2013. Custom Solar did all they said they'd do, when they said they'd do it, at a very competitive price.<br /><br />By 2015 we had sold that home and once again Custom Solar put a rooftop system at our new home. In 2016 we had them expand that system,<br /><br />Again, they were conscientious, courteous, did what they said they'd do when they said they'd do it at a very competitive price.

States Served

AZ

What To Look For In A Solar Installer?

When looking for a solar installer, it's essential to consider various factors to ensure you choose a reputable and competent company that meets your needs.

When selecting an installer like Custom Solar and Leisure consider:

Experience and Reputation:

Look for a company with a solid track record and years of experience in the solar industry. Read the latest Custom Solar and Leisure solar reviews from past customers to gauge their reputation.

Certifications and Licenses:

Ensure the installer holds the necessary licenses and certifications required in your area. Look for certifications from organizations like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) to verify their expertise.

Quality Products and Technology:

Inquire about the types and brands of solar panels, inverters, and other equipment they use. Quality matters for long-term performance. Ask if they offer the latest solar technologies, such as high-efficiency panels or energy storage solutions.

Learn more: Best Solar Panels for Homes | Top Solar Batteries

Warranty Information:

Understand the warranties they offer for equipment and workmanship. A reputable installer should provide comprehensive warranties. The majority of modern solar panels are equipped with a warranty spanning 20 to 30 years, encompassing both the product's integrity and its energy output. An ordinary workmanship warranty offered by a certified company typically provides coverage for solar panels for an average period of 10 years.

Transparent Pricing and Contracts:

Get detailed solar quotes that include all costs, from equipment and labor to permits and inspections. Review the contract carefully to ensure it's clear and transparent, with no hidden fees or surprises.

Local Knowledge:

Choose a company familiar with local building codes, regulations, and permitting processes. This can expedite the installation and ensure compliance.

Customized Design:

Look for companies who provide custom solar system designs tailored to your specific energy needs and property characteristics.

Energy Production Estimates:

The installer should provide accurate estimates of how much energy the system will generate, factoring in local climate conditions and other key influences. If your estimated solar savings are much higher with one solar company, you'll want to inquire further to ensure their savings projections aren't skewed to close the sale. Connect with us for a free estimate.

Financing Options:

Inquire about solar financing options, including purchase, lease, or power purchase agreements (PPAs). Ensure you know the pros and cons of each option.

Customer Service:

Assess their responsiveness and willingness to answer your questions and concerns and consider the installer's commitment to your project satisfaction. Throughout your solar process we’ll advocate for you, ensuring your solar project is done right.

References and Recommendations:

Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have installed solar panels. Ask the installer for references from past clients who can share their experiences. You can also read the latest reviews on Custom Solar and Leisure.

Multiple Quotes:

Don't hesitate to obtain quotes from multiple installers to compare pricing, services, and warranties. Hint: We can help!

Financing and Incentive Knowledge:

Ensure the installer is knowledgeable about available incentives, tax credits, rebates and financing options. At EnergyPal, we’ll help maximize your savings.

Safety Practices:

Confirm that the installer adheres to safety protocols during installation to protect both workers and your property.

By researching and considering these factors, you can select a reputable solar installer who will provide a quality solar energy system and a positive experience throughout the installation process. Connect with us to learn more about the best solar installers in your area.

How Do I Compare Solar Installation Options?

To make an informed decision when comparing solar installation options, start by determining your energy needs and seeking multiple quotes from reputable installers. Examine the quality of equipment, evaluate proposed system designs, and consider financing options, factoring in total costs and long-term savings. Assess warranties, support, and the installer's experience while also checking for customer feedback and references. Gauge their responsiveness and customer service, ensuring they educate you about the process. Consider an installer's licensing, and certifications. Request accurate energy production estimates and review contracts for transparency. By evaluating these factors, you can confidently choose the solar installation option that aligns with your energy goals and budget. Connect with us for a free quote.

Steps for Installing Solar Panels

  • Qualification: Contact solar companies through web forms, referrals, or flyers. Answer questions to determine eligibility.
  • System Design: Receive initial solar system design in a proposal. Review the design and consider panel placement, avoiding “under-sizing“ or “oversizing.“
  • Compare Quotes: Evaluate quotes, considering factors like monthly payments, power output, and system details. Seek guidance to simplify the comparison.
  • Contract Signing: Select a company and panel design, understand and sign the contract.
  • Site Survey: Technician assesses the site for solar panel installation, checking roof orientation and structural integrity.
  • Engineering: Behind-the-scenes process finalizes system layout, electrical configuration, and structural safety for permit submission.
  • Permitting: The company obtains necessary permits and approvals, ensuring compliance with regulations.
  • Installation: Expert team mounts panels, installs wiring and inverters, connects the system to the grid.
  • System Activation: Request final inspections, obtain permission to operate (PTO) from the utility, and turn on the system. Monitoring apps track power generation. From a signed contract to installation and system activation this process can take two to six months to complete. Check out our article for a more indepth look into the solar installation process.

Local Installers, Tax Credits, And Rebates In Your State

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Custom Solar and Leisure Solar Review Conclusion

Prior to making a decision to work with Custom Solar and Leisure, homeowners should thoroughly review multiple solar installation providers and quotes. This ensures they can secure the most suitable choices, advantages, and cost-effectiveness that align with their specific requirements.

Our impartial advisors are here with your best interests in mind. We listen, educate, and guide you to ensure you find the energy solution that's the perfect fit for your home.

We provide free custom designs tailored precisely to your home's unique requirements, allowing you to compare programs side by side.

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