Baker Electric

I had a 21-panel solar system installed by Baker Electric in March 2015 using LG280S1C-B3 panels.

In February 2025, I received an Enphase notification that one panel had stopped producing power. I contacted Baker Electric expecting a straightforward warranty process since I was advised the panel was still under warranty.

Instead, I was told the original panel model was no longer available and that I would be responsible for paying the cost difference for a newer replacement panel. I was also advised Baker Electric would charge approximately $1,600 just to come out and diagnose the failed panel. Then, after the replacement panel arrived, I was told there would be another approximately $1,600 charge to return and install the replacement panel into the existing array.

So, from my understanding, even with a warranted failed panel, the total out-of-pocket cost to the customer could still be around $3,200+.

I understand warranties can have limitations, especially regarding labor versus equipment, but this experience was surprising and not at all what I expected after investing in a professionally installed solar system from a well-known company.

I’m posting this so other customers understand what they may encounter years later if a panel fails outside of any labor coverage window. I would strongly encourage anyone considering solar installation to carefully review all workmanship, diagnostic, service-call, and replacement labor terms before signing a contract.

Baker fell extremely short with providing a timeline, communication, contact resource, and knowledge of project. Baker held our money for 5 weeks without any significant progress. Severely dented our gutter with their ladder and tore roof paper during 10 minute inspection. Left our place in a worse condition requiring time consuming and costly gutter repair.

Driver bought case of Bud Light and put it in his business vehicle.

I purchased an expensive HVAC system from Baker Electric and constantly had their technicians come out and attempt to fix the system. The wall thermostat doesn't read accurately and their head technician just told me it does from his office in Escondido. It constantly reads high from the temperature readings of other sophisticated measuring devices. He basically gave me a tough luck attitude, so I'm done with Baker Electric. Sad ending and my wife keeps telling me we should have stayed with our original system, only adding salt to the wounds.

It all comes down to communication. Baker was quick and easy to communicate with until we paid our deposit. Then it was radio silence for MONTHS while we waited for an install date. I sent an email saying that we were planning to drop and go with another company when "magically" they scheduled our install. Through the whole install process it was difficult to tell who was doing what and when it would be finished. We finally got the green light to "turn on" and the email excluded important information that would allow us to actually turn on. Would not go with them if I could do it again.