How to choose a solar panel installer in 2023

Choosing a solar panel installer

You’ve decided to go greener in 2023 and install solar panels to help with your electricity needs. But how do you go about choosing the right solar panel installer? What should you look for and what are the pitfalls to avoid? We outline some top tips for identifying the perfect provider for your solar panel system.

• Do your homework

Before starting to look for a supplier, do some reading around solar panel systems to understand what options are available. Do you think a monocrystalline or polycrystalline setup will suit you best? What are the costs of installing solar panels, and what sort of output are you looking for?

Knowing what you want will make it easier to find a provider to meet your needs, and will enable you to ask them the questions that need to be asked – about efficiency, costs and quality, as well as about necessary solar panel maintenance.

• Verify their credentials

Once you know a little more about solar panels, it’s time to look for a supplier. Choose an installer that is MCS-certified and has RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) membership. You may also want to investigate the breadth of their experience to ensure they know what they’re doing. A quick call or email can often help to answer your questions, as reputable businesses will be happy to outline their credentials.

• Turn to Google

A quick internet search for reviews of your shortlisted solar panel installers will help you to see whether they provide a good service. Check specialist trade websites such as CheckATrade and TrustATrader as well as viewing Google reviews and other third party review websites. If the comments seem genuine and positive, you can expect a good experience.

• Ask about procedures

Solar panels are a big investment, so it’s important to ensure your chosen installers pay attention to the details. Ask about their working practices and how they handle things like scaffolding. A good provider will inspect your roof before beginning the job, and let you know whether any issues need to be fixed before the panels go on. They’ll also be able to discuss the right type and number of panels for your needs and budget, as well as helping you decide whether you want battery storage.

• Check their aftercare offering

Solar panels should last upwards of 25 years, so you want to be sure they’re going to run efficiently for as long as possible. Ask your shortlisted solar panel installers about their aftercare services to ensure they can provide support further down the line. Many companies offer solar panel maintenance services, so ask about those and check their SLAs so you know how long you’ll have to wait if an issue arises.

• Go local

Choosing local solar PV experts means you’ll have someone who knows the local area and its specific requirements and regulations. It also ensures that, should you need maintenance or repairs, you won’t be waiting around for the next time they send someone to your area. You’ll have more flexibility to decide a convenient time for their specialists to visit.

If you’re looking for solar panel installers in Kent, look no further than South East Solar & Electrical. With over 15 years’ experience and industry accreditation, we can fit and maintain a high quality solar panel system for your home.