Investing in solar panels is one of the smartest ways to reduce your energy bills, increase your home’s value and lower your carbon footprint. With so many installers on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. At SolarTherm UK we’ve met many homeowners who came to us after having poor experiences elsewhere, and almost every time, the issues stem from a few common mistakes made during the selection process.
To help you avoid headaches, unexpected costs and poor performance, here are five most common mistakes people make when choosing a solar installer – and how to avoid them.
Choosing the Cheapest Quote Without Questioning Quality
It’s natural to want to save money, but the lowest quote often comes with compromises on the quality, safety or performance of your system. Some installers cut costs by using lower quality panels, inverters or fixings, or by rushing the installation through.
Why it matters:
Cheaper systems often underperform, degrade faster or cost more in the long run due to repairs or replacements.
How to avoid this:
Compare quotes carefully. Ask about panel brands, warranties, installation methods and aftercare services. A trustworthy installer will be transparent about why their price is what it is.
Not Checking Certifications and Accreditation
Solar installation requires skill, training and compliance with safety standards. Many homeowners assume all installers are certified, but that’s not always the case.
Why it matters:
If your installer isn’t accredited by MCS, you may not qualify for incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee and your warranties may not be valid. You also risk poor workmanship.
How to avoid this:
Only work with installers who are MCS certified and have qualified solar electricians on the team.
Ignoring Customer Reviews and Case Studies
A company may look impressive on paper, but real world results tell the true story.
Why it matters:
Reviews, testimonials and case studies reveal how the installer performs once the contract is signed, including reliability, professionalism and aftercare.
How to avoid this:
Check Google reviews, Trustpilot and social media feedback. Ask the installer for photos and case studies of recent installations, ideally similar to your property.
Overlooking Warranty and Aftercare Services
Many people focus on installation but forget to ask what happens after the panels are up.
Why it matters:
A solar PV system is a long term investment, built to save you money for a minimum of 25 years. If something goes wrong, you need a company that will support you and not disappear.
How to avoid this:
Ask about:
- Product warranties
- Workmanship guarantees
- On site support response time
- Monitoring options
Reputable installers will offer robust and transparent aftercare and have insurance backed warranties with HIES.
Not Considering Long Term Performance and System Design
A well designed system is more than just panels on the roof. Angle, shading, inverter choice and expected yield all affect performance.
Why this matters:
A poorly designed system may waste potential energy or fail to meet your energy requirements, even if the equipment is high quality.
How to avoid this:
Choose an installer who conducts a full site survey, uses accurate performance modelling and explains why they’ve chosen a specific setup for your home.
Final Thoughts
Your solar installer plays a crucial role in the efficiency, durability and financial return of your solar investment. Avoiding these common mistakes can help ensure you get a system that performs well and lasts for decades.
At SolarTherm UK we pride ourselves on transparent advice, high quality installations and long term customer support. If you’re considering solar and want guidance you can trust, we’re here to help.
Contact SolarTherm UK today for your free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
