UPDATE - July 21, 2026: After posting this review, Ho'a Solar publicly accused me of lying, harassment, and having "poor behavior as a human." I categorically reject those accusations. Throughout this matter, I communicated professionally and respectfully, and every factual statement in this review is supported by written documentation. I have now filed a complaint with the Hawaii Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO) regarding my experience with Ho'a Solar. Once my RICO complaint number is assigned, I will update this review so prospective customers can reference the complaint.
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I rarely leave negative reviews, but I believe consumers should be aware of my experience replacing my solar water heater system with Ho'a Solar.
I first contacted Ho'a Solar in February 2025 for an estimate to replace my solar water heater system but decided not to move forward at that time.
On June 21, 2026, I requested an updated estimate. The only difference from the original estimate was that I wanted the new storage tank relocated under my carport near the solar collector panels instead of in its existing location. I disclosed that relocation request in writing on Ho'a Solar's online submission form before the updated estimate was prepared.
Ho'a Solar prepared the updated estimate for the installation I requested. I approved the estimate through the company's QuickBooks estimate approval system, paid the required $1,500 deposit, and the installation was scheduled.
The afternoon before the scheduled installation, I was informed that relocating the storage tank would require additional plumbing and electrical work and that the cost would be "way more" than the approved estimate.
What made this especially frustrating was that the scope of work I requested had not changed. The tank relocation had been disclosed before the updated estimate was prepared, yet the additional costs were not identified until the afternoon before installation--after the estimate had been approved, my deposit had been accepted, and the installation had already been scheduled. Faced with unknown additional costs, I canceled the project.
On July 7, Ho'a Solar advised me that my $1,500 deposit would be processed for refund. More than two weeks later, I still have not received my deposit. After waiting nearly a week, I sent my first refund status inquiry simply asking whether the refund had been processed, when it would be mailed, and how it would be sent. Instead of answering those questions, I received a response stating that my "continuous negativity, complaints and demands" were "draining" and that I should "find some peace and happiness."
After speaking with the Regulated Industries Complaints Office (RICO), I sent Ho'a Solar a formal demand letter, as recommended, giving the company one final opportunity to resolve the matter before filing a complaint. Ho'a Solar did not respond. I have now filed a complaint with RICO seeking assistance in obtaining the return of my deposit and requesting that the agency review the company's contracting practices.
Another concern is Ho'a Solar's contracting process. During our communications, the company stated in writing that its practice is to provide the formal homeowner contract on the day of installation, after the customer has already approved the estimate, paid a deposit, and scheduled the work. RICO advised me that this contracting practice raises compliance questions, which is one of the issues I have asked the agency to review.
Fortunately, this experience turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I ultimately chose Solar Help Hawaii. Their pricing was so competitive that I upgraded to a 120-gallon storage tank while also receiving better equipment and additional solar collector panels. They provided the complete estimate and homeowner contract, including all terms and conditions, before requesting any deposit, making the entire process transparent and professional.
My advice to prospective customers is to proceed with caution when considering Ho'a Solar. Before paying a deposit, insist on receiving the complete homeowner contract, including all terms and conditions, and carefully review it before making any financial commitment. Make sure the estimate fully reflects the work you requested and ask Ho'a Solar to confirm that any special installation requirements have been evaluated before the estimate is prepared. Based on my experience, I would also be cautious about relying on assurances that a deposit will be promptly refunded if the project is canceled. More than two weeks after Ho'a Solar told me my refund was being processed, I still have not received my $1,500 deposit. read more