Choosing the Right Solar Pool Heating Company

Aquatherm Solar Pool Panels Installed by Solar Pool Services, Inc.

Installing a solar pool heating system is a big investment, and choosing the right company makes all the difference. Before you hire an installer, make sure they are licensed, insured, and authorized to install the panels they’re selling you. Here’s why these details matter:

1. Licensing Matters

It’s illegal in California to install solar pool heaters without a state license. A qualified installer should hold either a C-46 Solar Contractor license and/or a C-10 Electrical Contractor license.

You can verify licenses easily through your state’s licensing board. For California, check here:

Licensed contractors must pass multiple exams and prove years of experience. This ensures you’re working with someone knowledgeable in their field.

⚠️ Important: Most solar pool panel manufacturers only honor their 10–12 year warranty if the installation is completed by a licensed contractor. If someone without a license sells you a warranty, it may not be valid when you need it. Always double-check with the panel manufacturer to confirm warranty requirements.

2. Insurance Protects You

Solar pool installations are often done on the roof, which involves penetrations and potential risks. If something falls, breaks, or causes roof damage, you’ll want the installer’s insurance to cover it.

Make sure the solar pool heating company you choose has general liability insurance and workers compensation insurance.

General Liability Insurance – This protects the contractor (and you as the customer) in case something goes wrong during installation.

For example:

• A worker drops a tool and damages your roof or patio.

• Improper installation causes a roof leak.

• A panel falls and damages your pool equipment.

In these cases, the contractor’s liability insurance would pay for the repairs, not you.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance (also important) – While this doesn’t cover your roof, it covers the installer’s employees if they get injured on your property. Without it, you (the homeowner) could be held financially responsible for accidents on your property.

👉 Pro tip: Before giving them a deposit, ask your solar pool heating company for COI (Certificate of Insurance). A professional contractor should be able to provide this quickly (within a couple business days). If they hesitate, that’s a red flag.

3. Authorized Installers = Valid Warranties

Many homeowners don’t realize that solar pool panel manufacturers often require installers to be authorized dealers or certified installers in order for the warranty to remain valid. If your panels are installed incorrectly—or by someone unauthorized—the manufacturer may not cover repairs or replacements.

To be safe, ask your installer for proof of authorization, or contact the manufacturer directly to confirm.

4. Company Longevity

Unfortunately, some solar pool companies pop up, sell systems for a few years, then disappear—leaving customers stranded without service or warranty support. This can happen when:

• They don’t want to honor warranties

• They’ve sold too many faulty systems and can’t keep up with repairs

That’s why it’s best to choose a solar pool heating company that’s been in business for at least 15 years. Longevity shows they have a solid reputation, experience, and a commitment to serving customers long-term.

You can check a company’s license issue date here: CSLB License Lookup.

5. Ask for Referrals

A reputable solar pool heating company will have plenty of happy customers. Ask your installer for local references, and take the opportunity to speak with a nearby homeowner about their experience.

✅ At Solar Pool Services, Inc., we are fully licensed, insured, and authorized by multiple manufacturers. With over 15 years of experience, we’re proud to provide reliable service and peace of mind for every customer.

Call Solar Pool Services today (951) 276-8286