Our new solar panels are on the roof. Sometimes I believed it would never happen, but I listened to my house complaining today as they added the extra weight.
We noticed the difference as soon as they began to install the panels because the panels catch the sun that used to heat our roof and attic and everything under it. So, we know one benefit.
It was 95 deg. here today. HOT! for our neck of the woods (semi-dessert). The installer told me they were working in Palm Springs next week – out in California’s high dessert. I’d think that would be a great place to use solar energy, but I wouldn’t like to be the person who installs them in the heat.
So, how did we get from the last post to this one? You’ll remember we were having trouble getting anyone to show any interest in our project – even though we’d selected a company and put down a deposit. Finally, they were in breach of contract and we debated what to do. I was all for calling a lawyer and getting out of the contract. Afterall, they had missed all their deadlines and failed to return our calls. What else can you do?
My husband started calling the parent company and worked his way up the chain of command as high as he could go, then he told his story. Interesting what a little authority can do. Where before nothing was happening. Now they wanted to begin installing last week while we were partying. We put them off until Monday and they’ve been working hard, then resting in the shade, then working hard. Well, you can hardly fault them for needing a rest in the shade. The solar panels aren’t working yet, but they do get hot on the roof.
So, all the panels are up. Tomorrow they come to hook them up. Then they need to test them. After that we all need to wait for an official inspection. Then we can go solar full time. Whooo Hoooo! They got it done while we’re still in our summer heat time. It will be fun to see what the new solar panels can do for our electric bill.
One little glitch. When all the panels were on the roof, I had to give the installers a check for some serious money. I told him I needed a receipt. “Receipt? I don’t have no receipt?” So I wrote one out on my copy of the bill and had him sign it. This company seriously needs to get rid of the guy managing the office. I’m not sure if he does anything, but sit in his office.
So, today I’m happy. My husband is happy. We’re looking ahead in anticipation of this contract being done and our savings to begin.
Marilynne
