1. Familiarise Yourself with Solar Panel Choices2. Find an Installer in Your Area3. Gather Multiple Quotes4. Evaluate Installer Expertise and Credentials5. Check Customer Reviews and Ratings6. Assess Warranty Options7. Explore Grant Eligibility and Financing Options8. Verification of Installation Compliance9. Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions10. The Bottom LineCommon Red FlagsWhat to Expect From the Installation ProcessHow to Choose a Solar Panel Installer FAQsLocal Articles and Guides
1. Familiarise Yourself with Solar Panel Choices2. Find an Installer in Your Area3. Gather Multiple Quotes4. Evaluate Installer Expertise and Credentials5. Check Customer Reviews and Ratings6. Assess Warranty Options7. Explore Grant Eligibility and Financing Options8. Verification of Installation Compliance9. Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions10. The Bottom LineCommon Red FlagsWhat to Expect From the Installation ProcessHow to Choose a Solar Panel Installer FAQsLocal Articles and Guides
As costs rise, it's no surprise many homeowners and businesses are turning to solar panels to help reduce electricity bills.
However, a critical decision is selecting the right solar panel installer. With many options available in the UK, it’s essential to navigate this process carefully to ensure you receive quality service, expert installation and a system that meets your specific needs.
In this article, we will explore key factors to consider when choosing a solar panel installer and you'll learn:
✔ The importance of research and assessing potential installers
✔ Common red flags that indicate a less-than-reputable installer
✔ What to expect from the installation process
No time to wait? You can get a free, no-obligation quote with Glow Green in less than 60 seconds:
Before reaching out to installers, familiarise yourself with the best solar panel options available in the market. Take time to research the different types of solar panels and their respective efficiencies, costs and space requirements.
Consider factors like your roof space, budget and energy needs when evaluating which type might be the best fit for your home. By educating yourself on these options, you'll be better prepared to discuss your preferences with potential installers.
When choosing a solar panel installer, it's crucial to prioritise local expertise. You have two main options: finding a local installer in your area or selecting a national company that employs local installers, like Glow Green.
Opting for local expertise offers several benefits. Local installers possess in-depth knowledge of regional regulations, building codes and climate conditions which ensures that your installation complies with local requirements and is optimised for your area's weather patterns.
Also, they can respond more quickly to site visits, queries and any post-installation issues that may arise which leads to better customer service and support throughout the process.
When searching for a local installer, use online directories to filter by postcode or seek recommendations from neighbours who have installed solar panels. Of course, you can also use 'near me' terms when searching on Google to find installers in your area.
It's important to gather multiple quotes from different installers. This process not only helps you understand the market rates but also provides valuable insights into the various approaches and technologies offered by different companies.
Aim to obtain at least three to five quotes to ensure a comprehensive comparison. Each quote should include detailed information about the proposed system size, equipment specifications, estimated energy production and a breakdown of costs. Pay attention to the quality of the components offered, the warranty terms and any additional services such as maintenance or monitoring systems.
While it might be tempting to opt for the lowest price, remember that value for money is more important than the cheapest option. A slightly higher upfront cost might translate to better long-term savings and system performance.
When evaluating potential solar panel installers, it's crucial to assess their expertise and credentials to ensure you're working with qualified professionals.
Start by verifying that the installer is certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) which is a nationally recognised quality assurance scheme for renewable energy technologies. MCS certification demonstrates that the installer has met rigorous standards for technical competence and business practices.
Also, look for membership in consumer protection organisations such as the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC) or the Home Insulation & Energy Systems Quality Assured Contractors Scheme (HIES). These memberships indicate that the installer adheres to strict ethical standards and provides additional consumer protections.
It's important to note that MCS certification is a requirement for eligibility in government incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme.
One of the most effective ways to gauge the reliability and quality of a solar panel installer is by looking up customer reviews and ratings.
Online platforms such as Trustpilot, Google Reviews and social media can provide valuable insights into the experiences of previous clients. Pay attention to both the overall ratings and specific comments regarding the installation process, customer service and post-installation support.
Look for patterns in the feedback - consistent praise for timely service or high-quality workmanship can be a strong indicator of a trustworthy installer while recurring complaints about communication issues or unfulfilled promises may raise red flags.
Glow Green has over 10,000 reviews and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 on Trustpilot.
Comparing warranties is a crucial step in ensuring long-term protection for your investment. Most reputable solar panel manufacturers offer two types of warranties - a product warranty and a performance warranty. The product warranty typically covers defects in materials and workmanship for 10-25 years while the performance warranty guarantees a certain level of power output over 25-30 years.
Also, consider installers who provide their own workmanship warranty that cover the installation process itself. Remember, a comprehensive warranty not only protects your investment but also indicates the manufacturer's confidence in their product's durability and performance.
If needed, start by checking your eligibility for government grants such as the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme which can cover up to 100% of installation costs for eligible low-income households.
If you don't qualify for grants, research finance options such as solar loans or buy now pay later credit agreements. These options can help make solar panel installation more affordable by spreading the cost over time.
Also, some installers offer their own financing plans or partnerships with financial institutions. When considering these options, carefully compare interest rates, repayment terms and any fees associated with the financing.
Remember that while these options make the initial investment more manageable, you'll need to factor in the total cost, including interest, when calculating the long-term savings and benefits of your solar panel system.
Ensuring your solar panel installation meets all regulatory standards and industry best practices is crucial for both safety and performance. A reputable solar panel installer will have robust quality control measures in place to guarantee compliance.
For instance, many leading companies ensure that 100% of installations are audited to ensure full compliance, such as Glow Green. This comprehensive approach to quality control not only provides peace of mind for homeowners but also helps maintain the installer's reputation and certification status.
When selecting an installer, inquire about their verification processes, including any third-party inspections or certifications they may undergo.
It is helpful to engage in a thorough dialogue to fully comprehend the installation process and what it entails for your specific situation.
Don't hesitate to ask detailed questions about every aspect of the project. Inquire about the timeline for installation, potential challenges unique to your property and how they plan to address them. Ask about the specific equipment they recommend and why, as well as details on warranties for both the panels and the installation work, as mentioned above.
Understanding the permitting process, grid connection procedures and any necessary roof modifications is also essential. A reputable installer should be patient and willing to explain technical aspects in layman's terms which should help you feel comfortable and informed throughout the decision-making process.
This shouldn't end once the installation is complete - don't hesitate to ask about post-installation support, maintenance requirements and how to monitor your system's performance. A quality installer will be happy to provide ongoing assistance and answer any questions that arise as you begin to use and benefit from your new solar panel system.
We recommend taking a holistic approach when choosing a solar panel installer. Though, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable, experienced company that will meet your needs and expectations. Consider factors such as the installer's certifications, customer reviews and warranty offerings to build confidence in their reliability and commitment to quality. Don't hesitate to ask for references or check their online reviews.
Finally, maintain open communication throughout the process, asking questions to clarify any uncertainties. Any installer should be happy to provide clear answers and detailed explanations so you feel informed and confident in your decisions regarding your solar panel installation.
You can read our guide on things to know before buying solar panels to find out essential information about different panel types, roofing considerations and more.
It's important to be aware of potential warning signs that may indicate an unreliable or unethical company. Here are some common red flags to watch out for:
Unusually low or high prices: Be cautious of prices that are significantly lower or higher than the industry average. An unusually low quote may indicate the use of low-quality materials or subpar installation practices. On the other hand, an excessively high price could suggest inflated costs due to unnecessary add-ons or a lack of transparency in pricing.
Aggressive sales techniques: Reputable companies give you time to make an informed decision. Be wary of installers who use aggressive sales techniques or pressure you to sign contracts quickly. A trustworthy installer will respect your decision-making process and provide comprehensive information without undue pressure.
Exaggerated claims: Be cautious of companies making exaggerated claims about energy savings or efficiency. If the benefits seem too good to be true, they probably are. Research average energy savings in your area to set realistic expectations.
Insufficient credentials: Ensure the installer has necessary accreditations and certifications, such as MCS and HIES. Lack of proper credentials is a significant red flag and may indicate a lack of expertise or commitment to industry standards.
Negative customer feedback: Check online reviews and ratings for consistent negative feedback or unresolved complaints. A pattern of poor customer experiences is a clear warning sign.
Excessive upfront payments: Be cautious of companies requiring large upfront deposits, especially before any work has been done. This could be a sign of a potential scam.
Once you've decided to proceed with a solar panel installation with Glow Green, the process typically begins with a £200 refundable holding deposit. This initial step secures your commitment while allowing flexibility.
The next crucial phase is the pre-installation call (PIC) with one of our senior technicians. Before this call, you'll need to provide photographs of your roof and house to ensure a smooth installation process. These images may lead to adjustments in your quote, either up or down, based on what's observed. If the price increases during the PIC and you choose not to continue, your £200 deposit is fully refunded. Should you decide to move forward, you'll sign a contract and pay a 25% deposit.
At this point, we'll allocate stock for your project, agree on an installation date (typically 2 to 4 weeks out), arrange necessary scaffolding and assign one of our experienced fitting teams to your project. At this time we'll also handle any required approvals with the National Grid, known as DNO (Distribution Network Operator) applications.
It's also worth pointing out that scaffolding is generally put up around 2 days prior to the scheduled installation date of your PV system and will be taken down within a few days afterwards. Scaffolding is included as part of the quote.
Most installations are completed within 1-2 working days, though unexpected obstacles can extend this time frame. Throughout the process, our installation team strives to work as efficiently and thoroughly as possible.
A typical solar panel installation usually takes between one to two working days, though it could take longer if the installation is more complex.
For a typical 4kW solar panel system, the cost of solar panel installation could be between £5,000 and £6,000. Ultimately, the cost will depend on multiple factors such as the size of the system you choose.
In most cases, solar panel installations are considered permitted development and do not require planning permission but it's always best to check with your local council especially if you live in a listed building or conservation area.
While it's technically possible, it's not recommended to install solar panels yourself as it requires specific expertise and can be dangerous. Also, to qualify for certain incentives and warranties, installations must be carried out by certified professionals.
The majority of roofs in the UK are suitable for solar panel installation, even if they don't fit the ideal requirements. For more information, you can read our guide on solar panels and roof suitability.
Solar panels generally require minimal maintenance but it's recommended to have them professionally cleaned and inspected every 1-2 years to ensure optimal performance.
