How To Choose A Solar Panel Installer

Looking for a solar panel installer? Then consider the following before settling on one:

• Experience
• Reputation
• Equipment
• Installation process
• Pricing and finance options
• Local knowledge and compliance

This means ensuring the installer is certified, checking reviews, and comparing various quotes. If an installer isn’t checking enough of these boxes, they probably aren’t the best option for you. Let’s break this down some more.

How to Assess the Key Factors of a Solar Panel Installer

Here’s a more in-depth look at how you should go about picking a solar panel installer:

Experience and qualifications

Go for those with extensive experience and proper qualifications. Look for certifications from reputable bodies like the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).

Experienced installers will also usually have a proven track record, ensuring quality work. You’d be able to tell this from their reviews, which we’ll get into in a bit.

Also, check if they’re registered with Renewable Energy Assurance Limited (REAL) or the Solar Trade Association. These memberships show adherence to high industry standards and consumer protection.

Reputation and reviews

You can determine the reputation of solar panel installers by checking online testimonials and ratings on platforms like Google Reviews and Trustpilot. This feedback from customers can provide valuable insights into the installer’s reliability and quality of work. Generally, positive reviews and high ratings show a trustworthy company.

Also, be sure to ask for references and even contact previous clients (if you can) to learn about their satisfaction with the installation and after-sales support.

Equipment

High-quality equipment is a must for a successful solar panel installation. Ensure your solar installer uses reputable brands known for their durability and efficiency. The best installers will offer advanced solar panels with high-efficiency ratings, maximising your energy production so you can save on your electric bills.

Inquire about the warranties provided for both the panels and the installation work, as this indicates the installer’s confidence in their products.

Installation process and safety

A safe and efficient installation process is crucial for your solar panel system. Ensure your chosen installer follows industry best practices and safety standards, which you can typically find online. They should conduct a thorough site inspection to determine the optimal panel layout and system size.

The installer should also have a well-defined plan to reduce disruption and ensure all components are installed correctly. Proper safety measures, like secure scaffolding and appropriate electrical connections, are a must. Remember that a proper installation better guarantees your solar panel system will perform at its best for years to come.

Pricing and finance options

Find a solar installer with flexible finance options and competitive pricing. This means getting detailed quotes from every installer you’re in contact with and ensuring the quotes have no hidden costs. Compare lots of quotes to understand the market rate and avoid overpriced services.

Then, look for installers who offer financing solutions, such as loans or leasing, as well as those that will help you apply for grants for solar panels. These can help make the installation a lot more affordable. Transparent pricing and clear finance options also help you budget effectively and make an informed decision.

Local knowledge and compliance

The last area to look at is local knowledge to ensure compliance with regional regulations. Local installers are typically familiar with area-specific requirements, planning permission, and optimal installation practices.

Make sure the installer follows the Renewable Energy Consumer Code, which guarantees high standards of service and consumer protection. Their understanding of local climate conditions and energy needs helps tailor the solar panel system to your specific situation.

Looking for an Expert Solar Installation?

Are you ready to install solar panels but unsure where to start? Eco Happy, your reputable solar panel expert, specialises in seamless solar panel installations. We understand just how tiring it is to sift through countless names, all in a bid to find one that promises certified installers, quality equipment, and fair pricing. But guess what? Eco Happy offers all that and more!

Our experienced team manages the entire process, providing tailored solutions that meet your energy needs and budget. With us, you can trust that we’re committed to top-tier service and customer satisfaction.

Contact us today for a free quote and take the first step towards a greener, cost-effective future.

FAQs

What certifications should a UK solar panel installer have?

A common certification for solar panel installers in the UK is the Level 3 Award in the Installation and Maintenance of Small-Scale Solar Photovoltaic Systems. Also, installers should be certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) to ensure quality service and compliance with safety standards.

How do I check an installer’s reputation?

Take a look at popular online review sites like Trustpilot. Then ask for referrals from friends or family who have installed solar panels. You can also check with local consumer protection agencies to ensure the installer has a good reputation.

What should I look for in a solar panel warranty?

Ensure the warranty covers the panels, inverter, and other components, and that it provides enough support and maintenance. Also, check if the warranty is transferrable and if there are any specific requirements for maintenance or inspections.

What questions should I ask my solar panel installer?

Some of the questions to ask your solar installer include:

• How many solar panels do I need?
• Can you provide a detailed breakdown of the process?
• What types of solar panels do you install?

Our Verdict

With all the solar panel companies out there, choosing the right one won’t be easy at first. But, by focusing on experience, certifications, and customer reviews, you can better guarantee a successful solar panel installation. Also, remember to go for high-quality solar panels, and when you have them fitted, watch how they’ll lower your energy bills.