Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular all over the world. As people become more conscious of the environment and the need to rely on renewable sources of energy, solar energy is becoming a top choice.
When doing your research into a solar PV system for your home, it can feel like minefield in trying to determine the best products at the best return on investment for your home. But what if the solar panels or the solar inverter were not the most important component to your solar system? What if in fact, the most important component was the person who installed your solar system.
The last thing any homeowner would want to worry about is when their solar system has stopped working and the company that installed it are no longer around to assist. Additionally, if the manufacturer warranty is still valid, the manufacturer might advise the customer to go through the installer to process the warranty, which is still a hassle if the company that installed it are not around.
However, with 45 approved manufacturers and over 7000 solar retailers in Australia (as of July 2023) many installers will specialise in a handful of inverters and often will not have troubleshooting knowledge or technical support assistance for brands they are not familiar with. At Total Solar Solutions, we specialise in 3 inverters to provide our customers the most knowledge on those products.
Below are some reasons why it’s important to choose the right solar installer:
1. Proper design/installation is a must
While the quality of the equipment is important, it is equally important to have the installation done properly. The installer will be responsible for designing and installing the entire system. This includes not only placing the solar panels on your rooftop or elsewhere but also ensuring that the wiring, inverters, batteries, and everything else works efficiently. One mistake in the installation process could compromise the overall effectiveness of your solar energy system.
2. Safety is a priority
The safety of your property and everyone involved in the installation should not be taken lightly. Installing a solar energy system carries risks and requires proper training, experience, and safety protocols. An experienced and reputable solar installer will have trained their team in all necessary safety protocols and will have the correct safety equipment to ensure the job is done safely and properly.
3. Experienced solar installers have the knowledge to solve potential issues
Like any other technical system or appliance, sometimes things can go wrong with your solar energy system. The benefit of having an experienced installation company in your corner is that they generally have a years-long experience with all sorts of challenges that can arise. They will be able to guide you through these troubles and make suggestions to improve the performance of your system.
4. A professional installation team ensures an efficient output.
The output of your solar energy system largely depends on the installation process. An experienced commercial solar panels installer will make sure that your solar panels are placed in a way that maximises sunlight consumption resulting in the most efficient output possible. This is something that inexperienced installers or enthusiastic DIY-experimenters may overlook. By choosing the professionals who have years of experience installing solar energy systems, you can trust that your system will be set up for optimal efficiency.
5. Subscriptions and service benefits matter
Working with an established installer also means accessing the benefits of service plans and other subscription options. With regular maintenance and checkups, a solar energy system can run smoothly for years and years. Service benefits can also give you the confidence that in any instance, you have access to the support and advice of professionals who have been in the business for years.
What to keep in mind when choosing a Solar Retailer/Installer
- Word of mouth recommendations.
- Proven track record (positive reviews and photo’s promoting their own work).
- Longevity (Search their ABN and see when it was registered. If it’s less than 3 years, then ask why?).
- Local – it is more important than ever to support local and when there is an issue, they will be much faster to attend.
- Registered Electrical Company (REC number)
- Bricks and mortar location – not a fake address.
Here is a review from one of our customers:
“Exceptional after sales customer service! Three years ago, Total Solar has installed a 7.3kw LG 385 panels and solar edge inverter, which have been performing beautifully and generated top notch of renewable energy since then and no problem at all during this time. Recently, I contacted Reece during his holidays, via email when my inverter is not working, and he responded to me right away for solutions. As soon as he and his team back to work, they attended to my property and sorted out the problem. A new Solar edge inverter was being installed within 3 business days without any hassles from my end. As Reece just did it all and organise everything on my behalf. Thank you, God, for their amazing job! I honestly believe that what you pay is what you get! Reece and Christine should be very proud of themselves with their extensive knowledge of their products, and most importantly, they respect their customers and communicated well with us! Thanks to Christine again of her excellent and extremely polite customer service skills! Thanks to Josh too! Everyone at TSS is honestly the best you can get in this industry! At least, I know that I can count on TSS to look after our “investment” on the roof! If you are looking for an unparalleled and great quality solar products/package, installed with exceptional workmanship and reliable after-sales customer services, TSS is the company that look no further that will give you years of peace and joy while we are enjoying the renewable energy! Thank you”
–WINNIE
In conclusion, your choice of solar installer is one of the most important decisions you will make when it comes to your solar energy system. You want to ensure that you choose a reputable company with years-long experience, has the right equipment, takes safety seriously, and offers you reliable service benefits. Don’t hesitate to ask around, read reviews, and ask questions to ensure that you work with the best team possible for your energy needs. By taking the time to get to know your installation company, you can rest assured that you’re on the path to not only cost savings and reliability, but also eco-friendliness