Solar System Installer Southern California?

[Starbuck]

Hi Everyone,

I’m contemplating hiring out a complete solar system install on my ‘01 Catalina 34 mkII this summer. She’s slipped in Port of Los Angeles. Can anyone direct me to a one-stop installer anywhere between San Diego and say, Ventura/Channel Islands? Will involve batteries, panels, and everything in between.

I’m assuming a company, but would consider a highly-recommended individual who is willing to consult, then source/install everything.

Personal recommendations from happy customers valued more highly than second-hand referrals, but am grateful for any direction given.

Fair Winds,
Jeff

[Starbuck]

I really thought I’d get at least a few bites on this. Still wanting feedback, so chime in, anyone!

[piloto]

Jeff, respectfully: I’m going to guess that most of the solar installers in your area are dealing with high demand and larger scale systems and not likely to engage such a modest task (I’ve been in the industry for 38 years). My thought is that you’ll be likely dealing with a marine supplier or internet outlet for the components and then installing yourself, which is actually a better idea because then you’ll have a better idea of how the system works. The problem is that often the website solar sales people don’t have that much install experience. Start with making a load sheet of the items you will want to run on a daily/weekly basis and then build the system around that. Hope this helps.

[Starbuck]

Thanks for the kind reply, and the encouragement to DIM. Maybe using the phrase "solar system installer" evoked images of larger-scale jobs I didn't intend.

I have run into one or two companies that purport to do this type of thing, notably Sun Power RV (scroll down) in San Diego. They include a couple of yachts as examples of their work, and the Yelp reviews are generally positive, but naturally I'd like to hear from former customers before I commit. Maybe the owners of the vessels on that page would be willing to be contacted.

Fair Winds,
Jeff

[Captain Randy]

Hey Star. I am in Alamitos Bay. Send me a PM with your contact number and I will call you with how I went about it. Today my electrician is completing the installation of 840 watts on my boat. Awesome system and very pleased and happy to show it to you
Randy

[chowdan]

What's the reason for not doing it yourself? Is it due to complexity? Is it due to lack of time?