A solar quote has a lot of numbers. Here's which ones actually matter and what patterns suggest asking more questions before signing.
Production estimates that seem too optimistic
Compare a quote's projected annual production against an independent estimate from the solar production calculator using your actual roof, orientation, and location. A significant gap — especially the quote being noticeably higher — is worth asking about directly, since overstated production projections inflate the apparent savings and payback period.
Vague or missing equipment specifications
A legitimate quote names specific panel and inverter models, not just generic descriptions like "premium panels." Without specific model numbers, you can't verify efficiency, warranty terms, or check independent reviews — ask for exact equipment specs if they're not already included.
High-pressure timelines
"This price is only good today" is a common sales tactic across many industries, solar included — a legitimate quote should remain valid for at least several days to allow comparison shopping, and pressure to sign immediately is worth treating with skepticism.
Cost per watt significantly outside the normal range
Check the quote's effective $/W with the cost per watt calculator — a number substantially above typical market range deserves an explanation (premium equipment, difficult roof access) and a number suspiciously below range is worth scrutinizing for what might be cut (workmanship warranty length, equipment tier, permit handling).
Financing terms buried in fine print
For financed systems, confirm the actual APR (not just an advertised monthly payment) using the loan APR calculator, and check for any dealer fees baked into the equipment price to subsidize a promotional rate.
No mention of what happens to a workmanship warranty if the company closes
Ask directly about installer longevity and what backs the workmanship warranty — a newer or financially uncertain company's warranty carries more risk than an established one's, regardless of what's printed in the contract.
Frequently asked questions
Is a much lower quote than others always a red flag?
Not automatically, but it's worth understanding why — ask specifically what equipment tier, warranty terms, and services (permitting, monitoring) are included, since a significantly lower price sometimes means something specific was cut.
Should I be suspicious of a quote that includes a 0% financing offer?
Not suspicious exactly, but worth checking — compare the all-in equipment price of the 0% offer against a cash price for the same system, since promotional financing rates are sometimes subsidized by a higher equipment price.