Protect Yourself from Solar Scams

The Importance of Education and Choosing the Right Installer

• Introduction
• The Problem with Poor Solar Installations
• How to Avoid Being Scammed
• How IOTG Solar is Different
• Conclusion

Introduction

I recently had a conversation with one of my connections through our network, and the stories he shared about the number of solar scams out there were really eye-opening for me. Innocent people are being taken advantage of, which caught me off guard. But on the other hand, scams seem to be getting worse all the time.

This connection, a fellow electrician, told me about companies selling solar systems without properly trained installation crews. As a result, many systems were poorly installed. He mentioned that he had to correct and fix over 100 systems last year alone. This was in the U.S., but after doing some research, I found that similar issues exist in Canada, with many frustrated customers discovering their solar systems were not functioning as expected due to improper installation or misleading sales tactics.

This article serves as a reminder of the importance of education and understanding when considering a solar system installation. It’s not just about knowing how solar works, it’s about understanding what you’re purchasing and who is doing the installation. You must do your research and due diligence; otherwise, you might find yourself among these unfortunate statistics.

The Problem with Poor Solar Installations

Many of these issues stem from companies that focus on aggressive sales rather than quality installations. They often hire unqualified crews who lack the expertise to properly install solar systems, leading to serious problems such as:

• Non-functional or inefficient systems – Panels may not be wired correctly, or inverters may be improperly sized, reducing system performance.
• Safety concerns – Electrical code violations can create fire hazards or lead to system failures.
• Unexpected costs – Many customers are hit with additional expenses after installation, issues the salesperson never mentioned. These can include upgrades required to meet electrical code, additional work to ensure proper permitting, or even government-related fees such as inspections, grid connection costs, or compliance penalties. Since these costs aren’t always disclosed upfront, homeowners are often left footing the bill.
• Frustrated customers – Homeowners end up with expensive systems that don’t perform as promised, leaving them feeling misled and regretful.

Solar isn’t just about buying panels; it’s about ensuring you get a well-designed, properly installed system that meets your needs. If you don’t do your research, you could find yourself paying far more than expected, both financially and in frustration.

How to Avoid Being Scammed

To make sure you’re getting a quality solar system, follow these steps:

1. Research the Installer – Look at reviews, ask for references, and ensure they have certified electricians and qualified technicians on their team.
2. Understand Your System – A reputable company will take the time to explain how each component works and why it was chosen for you.
3. Check for Code Compliance – Any installation should follow local and national electrical codes to ensure safety and performance.
4. Beware of High-Pressure Sales – If a company is rushing you into a decision or making promises that sound too good to be true, walk away.
5. Make Sure the System Makes Financial Sense – A good installer will not push a system that doesn’t meet your needs or provide real value.

How IOTG Solar is Different

At IOTG Solar, we believe in doing things the right way. Our process starts with educating our customers, before we design a system, we ensure they fully understand how it will work, what components are involved, and whether it’s the right choice for them. If solar doesn’t make financial or practical sense for a customer, we won’t sell them a system.

If a customer moves forward, we install their system professionally , with no shortcuts. Our customers should feel confident and proud of their solar investment, not regret it. We prioritize education, honesty, and quality installation because we know how important a reliable solar system is for energy independence.

Conclusion

Solar energy is an incredible investment, but only when it’s done right. Too many homeowners have been misled by sales-driven companies that don’t deliver quality installations. The best way to protect yourself is through education and research. Know who you’re working with, ask the right questions, and ensure your system is installed by professionals who follow proper standards.

At IOTG Solar, we are committed to transparency, quality, and customer success. If you’re thinking about solar, let’s talk. We’ll help you make an informed decision and ensure your system is built to perform for years to come.

For individuals seeking consultation, education, or assistance in system designs related to grid-tie or off-grid solar applications, IOTG Solar stands ready to help. Our team is available to address questions, provide valuable insights, and offer support at every stage of the solar energy journey. Feel free to reach out to  IOTG Solar  anytime for expert assistance and comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific needs.

IOTG Solar…

Keeping you powered through education.