Start with hot-water use
Describe the busiest shower period, baths, laundry, dishes, expected household changes, and any current shortage. Ask the water-heater provider to compare suitable models, delivery, and reheating performance under the proposed room conditions. Request the intended operating mode and the assumptions behind the selection.
A proposal should still work as a water-heating plan if the solar project is delayed. Identify the supply and operating cost assumptions during that gap rather than counting a future system as already installed.
Check the solar assumptions
DOE explains that solar production and electricity demand do not always happen at the same time, and storage can shift energy use. Solar and storage basics.
Have the solar designer include the selected heater's anticipated electricity use in the household model. Ask about seasonal generation, household schedules, tariff assumptions, and any battery limits. Annual production is not a guarantee that this appliance will have power during an outage.
If scheduling the heater is proposed, have the installer explain the model's approved controls and demonstrate that the planned schedule preserves needed hot water. Do not raise storage temperature or change internal wiring to chase solar use.
Coordinate the trades
A licensed electrician should evaluate the supply, circuit, panel, and planned solar or storage connection. Request a combined electrical scope so the heater and solar quotes do not each assume the other includes necessary work.
If removing a gas appliance is part of the plan, identify the qualified provider responsible for gas isolation, vent changes, and any impact on equipment that remains. Confirm permit and inspection responsibilities with the providers and the applicable Denver authority.
Compare the complete installed price and operating assumptions before subtracting incentives. Ask the actual program administrator or tax professional to verify current eligibility and timing; a historical solar or water-heater credit is not a current entitlement.
Your next step is to give the heater selection and household demand brief to the solar designer and electrician. Request one coordinated sequence with each prerequisite, owner, and completion check named.