Reviews by JohnG

Save a Lot Solar

I would like to add my voice to the chorus of happy customers who used Save-A-Lot Solar to install their solar photovoltaic systems. John Orfali and his crew are professional, knowledgable, efficient and friendly. I investigated several other companies before choosing Save-A-Lot Solar and was disappointed with all the interactions I had with other companies (and their prices) until I talked to John Orfali. I'm both an electrical and mechanical engineer and I wanted specifics of the system to be installed. In addition, I wanted to be able to use the system when PG&E was not providing power. Almost all solar photovoltaic systems will not operate when not connected to the power grid. That means after an earthquake or big storm when the power is off, your system won't operate. Few people know this. Most companies I talked to either said they didn’t install backup systems to allow the system to operate when off grid or were clueless about their operation. In one instance the company I called said that they had looked at the satellite image of my house, had seen some trees nearby and flatly refused to even bid. On the other hand, John Orfali, was a wealth of knowledge and information and was able to provide specifics so that I could make an informed decision about the details of the system he would install (20 panels-5KW). He had devices to predict what efficiency the system would operate at over the course of the year and provided a detailed report predicting what I could expect form the installation on a month-to-month basis.

The devices he uses are manufactured by Canadian Solar and each panel has a microinverter so that a central, main inverter isn't needed. The installation is simple and the inverters also 'talk' to the internet. There is a web based application provided by Enphase that allows me to check how the system is operating on a 15 minute basis and also provides data per day, month, and year. It can also be used to diagnose any problems that might arise and pinpoint the exact panel that's causing the problem.

Many companies do fine when everything goes as planned. The true test of a professional is when things don't go according to plan. There were several glitches in my installation: an overly persnickety inspector who insisted on minor and unreasonable changes, a roofing contractor unrelated to Save-A-Lot Solar that delayed the installation, and an antique electrical service that baffled the inspector. John Orfali and his crew took this all in stride and were unflustered by these diversions. They remained professional, resolute and even friendly as they went about making the required modifications. I'm currently waiting for Enphase to release a new battery backup system that will integrate more directly with the PV installation than the current one does. And of course, I'll use Save-A-Lot Solar for that installation.

In summary, you can't find a better contractor to install a PV system. He provides a turnkey system, does all the paper work (obtaining permits, filling out PG&E forms, etc.), is onsite while the installation is in progress, and follows up to ensure satisfaction. His communications skills and customer service are the best I have encountered. John Orfali and is crew deserve the 5 stars everyone has given them. Simply: USE THESE GUYS! you won't be disappointed!... read more

Type: Residential Electric

Reviewed: 12/08/2014