Choosing a vetted, experienced solar installer is an investment in quality, safety, and peace of mind. Home and commercial property owners across Northern California are embracing solar panels and battery storage to cut energy costs and improve resiliency. But with the solar boom comes a “solar coaster” of new contractors flooding the market, many offering rock-bottom prices but lacking a track record. This blog explains why it’s crucial to choose a trusted, long-established installer (like Infinium Solar Roofing & Electric) even if it costs a bit more up front. We’ll explore industry data on solar companies’ lifespans, the value of field experience and long-term support, and the risks of going with unvetted installers. In short, we’ll show why working with a proven name is worth every penny for your solar and battery investment.
The Short Lifespan of Many Solar Installers
Solar contracting can be a volatile business. In fact, the average solar installation company only lasts about 5–7 years in operation. This short lifespan means many firms that started during recent solar booms have already shut down. California’s market has been especially turbulent. Policy shifts like the state’s Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0) changes in 2023 slashed solar incentives and led to a wave of company bankruptcies and closures. Over 100 solar installers went bankrupt in 2024 alone, a level of industry shake-out never seen before. A report early in 2024 warned that roughly two-thirds of California’s rooftop solar companies were at “high risk” of bankruptcy under the new rules . The fallout included an ~80% drop in new residential solar installations, thousands of layoffs, and many projects left stalled.
For customers, this instability poses a serious risk. If your solar provider goes out of business, who will service your system or honor warranties a few years down the line? Unfortunately, many homeowners have been left stranded with malfunctioning systems or unfulfilled maintenance needs because their installer disappeared. It’s a scenario far more common than you might think, given the industry’s turnover. Choosing a long-standing installer greatly reduces this risk – an established company is far more likely to be around in 10, 15, or 25 years to support you. Infinium Solar, for example, has been serving Northern California since 2008, well beyond the typical solar company lifespan and through multiple industry cycles. Their longevity is a reassuring indicator that they’ll stick with you for the long haul.
Field Knowledge and Hands-On Experience Matter
When it comes to solar and battery installations, experience isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential. Designing and installing a safe, efficient solar PV system with battery backup is a complex undertaking. Installers must evaluate your roof structure, sun exposure, electrical system, local building codes, permitting rules, and more. There is no substitute for field experience in getting these details right. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends working with installers who have at least three years of experience as a rule of thumb. Seasoned installers have encountered a wide range of scenarios and honed their practices over time.
An experienced solar provider brings deep expertise in system design, engineering a setup that maximizes your energy production and fits your property’s unique needs. They know how to optimize panel layout (orientation, tilt, spacing) and integrate battery storage properly for backup power. They’ve also navigated the permitting maze many times before. In Northern California, different cities and counties have specific rules for solar and storage installations. A veteran installer familiar with local codes, utility interconnection processes, and permit offices can save you time and headaches (and ensure your system is 100% code-compliant).
Crucially, experienced installers prioritize safety and quality workmanship. Solar panels and batteries tie into your home’s electrical system, mistakes in wiring or component installation can pose fire and shock hazards. A seasoned crew understands proper electrical practices and safety protocols to protect your home. They also tend to use higher-grade materials and follow industry best practices meticulously. By contrast, inexperienced or “cheap” installers often make errors that compromise performance or safety. For example, a national solar quality audit found poor wire management issues in 38% of inspected projects, things like loose, dangling cables or incorrect connectors. Such deficiencies, often due to insufficient training or oversight of new installers, can lead to failures or hazards down the road. Similarly, a 2024 field report found 72% of solar installations had safety or reliability issues requiring fixes, and 11% had critical problems needing shutdown, largely problems that could have been prevented with proper expertise and quality control. The message is clear: your installer’s competence directly affects your system’s quality, safety, and performance.
In practical terms, an expert installer will ensure every bolt is properly tightened, every roof penetration is sealed against leaks, every panel is securely mounted, and every battery connection is safely installed. They will also configure your system to operate at peak efficiency. Experienced engineers account for shading, panel placement, and system sizing to achieve optimal energy output; less experienced contractors might leave you with an underperforming system due to design mistakes. Over 25+ years of operation, those efficiency differences add up to thousands of dollars in energy savings (or lost savings). In short, hiring an installer with proven know-how maximizes your solar investment by doing the job right the first time.
Long-Term Support and Warranties for Peace of Mind
Installing solar is not a one-and-done transaction, it’s a 25+ year relationship with your energy system. As equipment ages or if problems arise, having a reliable installer to turn to is incredibly valuable. This is where long-term support separates trustworthy solar companies from fly-by-night operations. Reputable installers will stand by their work for decades, offering robust warranties and ongoing service. For example, Infinium Solar provides a 25-year workmanship warranty on their installations, meaning if any issue related to their installation arises, they will fix it at no cost. They also handle routine maintenance and monitoring for customers, ensuring systems continue to perform optimally.
Consider what happens if your inverter fails after 10 years, or you notice a roof leak under the solar array in 5 years. With a stable, supportive installer, it’s a quick phone call to get it resolved under warranty. But if your installer is long gone, you’re left scrambling to find someone willing to service a system they didn’t install – often at your own expense. Unfortunately, many bargain solar outfits lack any meaningful post- install support, leaving homeowners to fend for themselves once the check clears. As one solar industry expert notes, “many solar installation companies lack support when it comes to future service needs, which can leave homeowners to grapple with troubleshooting and repairs on their own”. That can mean significant surprise costs and headaches down the line.
Working with an established installer gives you confidence that help will be there in the future. These companies have dedicated service departments and won’t vanish if something goes wrong. They can monitor your system’s performance remotely, perform annual check-ups, and handle warranty claims with manufacturers on your behalf. Moreover, a well-regarded installer has a reputation to uphold, so they are motivated to keep customers happy for the long term. The bottom line: a solar system is a long-term asset, and you need a partner who will be there to support that asset over its lifetime. Cut-rate installers that might not be around next year are simply not worth the risk.
The Risks of Choosing Cheap or Unvetted Installers
It’s understandable that property owners get quotes from multiple solar providers and might be tempted by a low bid. However, if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Ultra-low quotes often indicate the installer is cutting corners – whether on equipment quality, labor expertise, or service. Here are some potential downsides of going with an unvetted or bargain-basement solar installer:
Poor Workmanship and Lower Performance: Inexperienced or low-cost installers may not follow best practices, leading to sloppy installs. This can mean loose wiring, improper roof sealing, misaligned panels, or shoddy connections. Such workmanship issues can reduce your system’s energy output and even cause failures. As mentioned, audits find a large share of systems with preventable deficiencies due to installer error . You might save a little upfront, but an improperly installed system could produce below its potential – cutting into your savings year after year. Worse, you may have to pay for repairs or re-installation later, erasing any initial cost benefit.
Safety Hazards: Solar panels and batteries are safe when installed correctly, but poor installation can create safety risks. Faulty wiring or undersized electrical components can lead to overheating or electrical fires. Improper roof penetrations can cause leaks and water damage to your home’s structure. A well-installed solar array “should never cause a roof to leak” – any leaks usually point to incorrect installation or shoddy workmanship . Cheap installers who lack roofing expertise might crack tiles or fail to waterproof mounting holes. The consequences can be expensive roof repairs or safety incidents. Trusted installers typically have licensed roofers and electricians on the team specifically to avoid these issues.
No Recourse on Warranty: Most solar equipment (panels, inverters, batteries) comes with long manufacturer warranties. But if your installer isn’t around to help, navigating warranty claims can be difficult. Manufacturer warranties typically only cover the component, not the labor to replace it – so you could still end up paying a new contractor to do the work. Reputable installers not only use quality components with strong warranties, they also cover workmanship warranties themselves. If an unvetted installer does offer a warranty but then goes under, that promise becomes worthless. Unfortunately, with so many solar companies lasting only a short time , this is a real concern. It’s far better to get it done right by a stable company that will honor warranties 10+ years down the road.
Unlicensed or Uninsured Contractors: In the rush of the solar boom, some outfits consist of unlicensed handymen or subcontractors with minimal training. Always verify your installer’s licenses (California requires a CSLB license for solar contractors) and insurance. If you go with an unlicensed cheap installer and something goes wrong, you as the homeowner could be liable for damages or injuries. Established companies like Infinium carry all proper licenses (C-10 electrical, C-46 solar) and insurance, so you’re protected . Don’t put your property at risk to save a few dollars.
Fly-by-Night Operations: Sadly, there have been cases of disreputable contractors taking large deposits and disappearing without completing the work. Even short of outright scams, a common story is the small installer who, due to inexperience, underbids a job, runs into problems, and then abandons the project when they can’t deliver. Choosing a vetted installer with a solid history eliminates worry about these nightmare scenarios. Trusted companies will have numerous verified customer reviews and references you can check – use those resources to vet any installer you consider.
In summary, going solar is a significant investment – it’s not the time to gamble on an unknown or unqualified installer. The potential downsides (from technical issues to financial loss) far outweigh any upfront savings. Reputable, experienced installers might charge a bit more, but they earn it back through higher quality equipment, skilled installation, and assured support. As one Texas solar provider put it, hiring cheaper or DIY options might “appear budget-friendly, [but] they often lead to higher long-term expenses” once you factor in lower performance and repair costs . In solar, you truly get what you pay for.
The Infinium Solar Difference: Trust Built Since 2008
To see the benefits of an experienced, vetted installer in action, look at a company like Infinium Solar Roofing & Electric – a Northern California provider with a long track record of quality. Infinium has been in business for 17 years (founded in 2008), serving homeowners and commercial clients around the Bay Area. Staying in the solar industry that long – far beyond the average 5–7 year company lifespan – speaks to their stability and success. They have weathered multiple incentive changes and market ups and downs, all while continuing to grow. Over time, Infinium evolved from helping DIY homeowners to becoming “one of the largest solar installers in the region”, all while maintaining a customer-centric approach.
What sets Infinium apart is not just longevity, but a commitment to quality, comprehensive service, and customer satisfaction. They hold both solar and general electrical contractor licenses, and even offer full roofing services, which is crucial in a solar installer. This means when Infinium puts panels on your roof, they bring genuine roofing expertise to ensure your roof’s integrity is maintained (and they can handle any necessary re-roofing or repairs in-house). Their projects are handled by a dedicated in-house crew of highly trained professionals, not inexperienced subcontractors . By keeping everything in-house – from design and permitting to installation and final inspection – Infinium maintains strict quality control at each step.
Infinium also distinguishes itself through product and service offerings. They are one of the few solar firms that stocks and supplies their own equipment, allowing them to offer competitive pricing without compromising on component quality . They use premium panels, inverters, and batteries (partnering with top manufacturers like Enphase, REC, Franklin Energy, etc.) and design each system to the client’s specific needs . Whether it’s a straightforward rooftop PV system or a complex solar + battery backup with EV charging, they have done it before. In fact, their 15+ years of installations span all kinds of projects fro steep tile roofs to flat commercial roofs and ground mounts – giving them the know-how to tackle any scenario.
Most importantly, Infinium’s customers speak to the value of their experience. The company boasts near-perfect ratings on independent platforms – for instance, an average 4.8 out of 5 stars from 24 customers on EnergySage reviews . They are BBB accredited with an A+ rating, and maintain a stellar reputation on Yelp (4.7/5) and other review sites. Clients consistently praise Infinium’s professionalism, workmanship, and support. “Reasonable prices. Good service. Friendly staff,” notes one recent customer, highlighting the positive experiences people have had . That kind of feedback isn’t earned overnight; it comes from years of taking care of customers and standing by commitments.
Working with a trusted provider like Infinium means you get true end-to-end support for your solar investment. Right from the initial consultation, they will give an honest assessment and detailed proposal – not overpromising, but ensuring you understand the realistic benefits. They handle all the heavy lifting: engineering the system, obtaining permits, scheduling inspections, and interconnecting with the utility . Once installed, they’ll walk you through operating your new solar+battery system and keep an eye on its performance. If you ever have a question or issue years later, you know exactly who to call (and can expect a prompt response from their local team). This level of long-term accountability is priceless. It’s the peace of mind that your roof is in good hands, your system will deliver as expected, and if anything isn’t right, it will be made right.
Worth the Investment
In conclusion, choosing a vetted, experienced solar and battery installer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your clean energy journey. Yes, it may involve a higher upfront cost than a newbie offering a cut-rate deal. But what you’re buying is decades of expertise, reliability, and support that will safeguard your investment and maximize your returns. The Northern California solar market has seen plenty of here-today, gone-tomorrow installers – don’t let your project become another cautionary tale. By partnering with a long-established company like Infinium Solar Roofing & Electric, you’re investing in quality equipment, skilled installation, and a relationship that will last for the life of your system.
Your solar panels and batteries should power your property for 25+ years; make sure the people who put them in place will be there for you just as long. With a trusted installer, you gain not only clean energy, but also the confidence that comes from knowing your project was done right and is backed by professionals. In the rapidly evolving solar industry, experience truly is the best warranty.
Sources:
Jindingbao Solar Power Generation: 15 Years of Lighting Up the Renewable Energy Landscape - Solar Pro
https://solar.cgprotection.com/blog/Jindingbao-Solar-Power-Generation-for-15-Years/
The Complete List of Solar Bankruptcies and Business Closures
https://www.solarinsure.com/the-complete-list-of-solar-bankruptcies-and-business-closures
75% of California rooftop solar companies at ‘high risk’ of bankruptcy | Environmental Working Group
About | San Jose Residential Solar
http://www.infiniumsolar.com/about/
Decisions, Decisions: Choosing a Solar Installer | Department of Energy
https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/articles/decisions-decisions-choosing-solar-installer
Why Hiring Trusted Solar Installers is so Important | NATiVE Solar
https://nativesolar.com/why-hiring-trusted-solar-installers-is-so-important/
Inspecting for Success: Common Deficiencies in Solar PV Installations
https://www.ibts.org/common-deficiencies-solar-pv-installations
Critical Safety and Reliability Problems Found in 11% of Solar Project Inspections - SolarGrade
Infinium Solar, Inc. - Profile & Reviews - 2025 | EnergySage
https://www.energysage.com/supplier/24861/infinium-solar-inc/
My Roof Leaks After Installing Solar Panels: 3 Sneaky Causes
https://sandbarsc.com/news/my-roof-leaks-after-installing-solar-panels
INFINIUM SOLAR ROOFING AND ELECTRIC - Updated May 2025