12 Questions To Ask Your Solar Installer

Installing solar panels is a significant investment, so you want to ensure that you choose a reputable solar installer to carry out the job.

Did you know that there are over 4,700 solar companies registered with Renewable Energy Assurance Ltd in the UK? This can definitely make the choice quite overwhelming.

Fortunately, asking the right questions can help ensure that you make the right decision. Remember that you don’t need to choose the very first installer you come across. It’s best to do your due diligence and find out more about them before agreeing to a quote.

In this article, we’ll provide you with 12 important questions you should ask your solar installers before you begin the installation process.

1. Are You a Certified Solar Company?

At the very least, a solar company in the UK should be registered with Renewable Energy Assurance Ltd (REAL) and the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). Some of the other accreditations to look out for include the Gas and Electric Market Authority (GEMA), the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC), and Solar Energy UK.

Confirming that your solar panel company has the necessary accreditations will put your mind at ease and ensure you’re on the right track. You’ll also only be eligible for the SEG scheme, which allows you to sell excess energy back to the national grid, and other incentives if your panels have been installed by an accredited company.

2. What Sort of Experience Does Your Solar Installation Company Have?

If you want a high-quality installation, you’ll need to opt for a solar company that has at least a few years of experience behind them. You can also ask about what sort of properties they have provided solar installations for and in which areas.

While experience does not always guarantee that the solar company will do a good job, it does help to narrow down your search for the right installers.

3. Can You Provide a Structural Report? And at What Additional Cost?

You should never have solar panels installed without getting a structural report from a qualified ISE structural engineer. This report ensures that your roof is strong enough to handle the additional weight of a solar panel system.

Don’t trust a solar panel company that says that a structural report isn’t necessary. No two roofs are the same and you cannot determine the strength and suitability of a roof for solar panel installation by just looking at it.

4. What Types of Solar Panels Do You Install?

Most solar panel companies can install a range of different types of solar panels, including:

• Monocrystalline solar panels
• Polycrystalline solar panels
• Thin-film solar panels

If you aren’t sure what type is right for you, the company should be able to advise. It would help if you also asked about the types of inverters: string inverters, power optimisers, and micro-inverters.

5. How Long Will the Installation Take?

Typically, solar panel installations last between one and four days. The duration of the installation will depend on the size of your system, weather conditions, and type of installation. A good installer should be able to get the job done quickly without rushing through the process.

It can sometimes feel invasive to have strangers on your property, so it’s important to have a clear idea about how long the process will take.

6. How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?

How many solar panels you need will depend on the following factors:

• Your energy needs
• Your budget
• The size of your roof
• How much power your electrical appliances require

Solar companies should be able to look at these factors and tell you the optimal number of solar panels for you to invest in. The great thing about solar arrays is that they are easily expandable and you can always add more panels whenever you can afford to.

7. How Much Electricity Will My Solar Panels Produce?

Home solar energy systems typically produce significantly less electricity than commercial ones. Depending on the size of your system, your solar panel installer should be able to estimate the amount of electricity your solar panels will produce.

Keep in mind that the weather will also play a significant role in the amount of power produced by your solar system. While panels don’t require direct sunlight to operate, recurring days of rain and snow can reduce your solar production.

8. How Much Will the Solar Installation Cost?

Typically, solar panels cost between £5,000 and £13,000 for a 3.5-4 kW system. Your specific solar costs will depend on your solar contractor, the number of panels you need, your location, the type of panels, solar panel placement, and more.

Remember that the best deal is not necessarily the best option, and if a quote seems too good to be true… it probably is!

9. Are Warranties Offered?

Don’t choose a solar installer who doesn’t offer any form of warranty. If you install new solar panels, there should be a warranty on the panels as well as on the workmanship provided. A warranty offers you a form of protection if things don’t go according to plan. Remember to read all the fine print carefully.

10. Can You Provide Testimonials?

Experience and accreditation can give you some indication as to whether or not a solar installer is reputable. However, reading testimonials will give you a clear idea of what it’s like to work with a particular solar company.

Testimonials should usually be visible on a company’s website and provide valuable insight. Beware of companies that refuse to provide testimonials should you ask for them.

11. Can You Provide a Detailed Breakdown of the Process?

While this may not be the most important of the solar installer questions, it’s still a good idea to request a detailed breakdown of the process and the costs. This way, you’ll be fully prepared going into the installation and know exactly what to expect.

12. What Other Solar Equipment is Needed?

Solar panels form only one component of a solar system. You’ll also need mounting equipment, an inverter, and a battery. Most companies will be able to offer helpful advice when it comes to what other solar equipment you’ll need for your system.

FAQs

Can I install solar panels on my own?

While it is legal to install your own solar panels in the UK, you should not attempt the installation process unless you have the right experience. Not only could you damage your panels, but you could also end up injuring yourself.

Is a solar energy system worth the cost?

Yes, solar energy is worth the initial cost. Over time, you’ll break even thanks to the amount you’ll save on your energy bills. You also have the option to sell back any excess energy to the national grid through the SEG scheme and make use of other solar incentives.

What do you need to know before installing a solar system?

Before installing solar panels, it’s a good idea to know how suitable your roof is for the system (shading, stability, space, etc.) and whether or not you require any planning permission for the installation. A qualified solar panel installer, like Eco Happy, will be able to guide you.

Conclusion

Take the time to learn about the company you’re entrusting to install your solar panels. Unfortunately, there are many solar companies out there that aren’t properly certified and produce shoddy workmanship. Buying solar panels is a significant investment and you should feel confident in the team that’s going to carry out the installation.

If you are looking for a good solar installer in the UK, look no further than the solar experts at Eco Happy. Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners reduce their electricity bills through quality solar installations. If you have any questions or would like to receive a quote, don’t hesitate to contact our knowledgeable team.