Solar Panel FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Installing solar panels involves working at height and with high voltage DC electricity, which means it must always be carried out by trained professionals. Poor workmanship or incorrect wiring can create electrical faults and, in rare cases, fire risks.

That’s why choosing an experienced MCS accredited installer is essential. At SolarTherm UK, all our installations are carried out by qualified installers in line with current safety standards, ensuring your solar PV system is installed safely, correctly and compliantly.

Solar panels are designed to operate in a wide range of temperatures, but excessive heat can slightly reduce their efficiency. This is known as temperature related performance loss. In the UK, extreme heat is rare, making our climate ideal for solar PV systems. Correct installation, adequate airflow and quality components help minimise overheating and ensure long term performance.

Solar panels can absolutely power a home in the UK. With a standard solar PV system, many households generate up to 70-75% of their annual electricity needs. When paired with battery storage, a solar PV system can cover even more. Every home is different, so a professional survey is essential to determine system size and expected generation. At SolarTherm UK we don’t believe in a one size fits all approach to solar, that’s why every system we install is tailor designed to the property, usage and future energy needs.

Solar panels do not generate electricity at night because they rely on sunlight. However, this doesn’t mean your home is without power. Surplus energy generated during the day can be stored in a solar battery for use in the evening. Alternatively, grid connected systems automatically draw electricity from the National Grid when solar generation isn’t available.

Solar panels are manufactured using specialised glass that helps repel dirt and debris. Rainfall can wash away light dust and grim, particularly when panels are installed at the correct angle.

That said, panels are not completely self-cleaning. Bird droppings, heavy pollution or prolonged dry periods can reduce performance, so occasional professional cleaning or maintenance checks are recommended.

Solar panel technology continues to improve year after year. Most modern residential solar panels operate at 15-23% efficiency, with premium panels reaching the upper end of that range.

While efficiency gains are becoming more incremental, improvements in panel design, inverter and battery technology continue to increase overall system performance and energy yield.

Standard grid connected solar PV systems automatically shut down during a power cut. This is a safety feature designed to protect National Grid engineers working on the grid. However, homes with battery storage and an Emergency Power Supply (EPS) or a hybrid system, can still access electricity during an outage. This is particularly beneficial for rural properties or areas prone to power cuts.

Solar panels can be installed without a smart meter. However, a smart meter is required if you wish to:

• Access export tariffs
• Use off peak electricity
• Optimise battery charging

Your meter must be capable of recording import and export data at half-hourly intervals, to fully benefit from modern energy tariffs.

Solar panels can technically be installed without MCS certification, but you will not be eligible for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments and many manufacturer warranties require MCS certification to qualify.

Only MCS certified installers, like SolarTherm UK, can issue an MCS certificate, and this has to be issued by the installer. This guarantees your system meets industry standards and allows you to earn money from exporting surplus electricity back to the grid.

Solar panels are usually covered under your buildings insurance. Most insurers simply need to be notified before installation, as solar PV systems are classed as building works. In most cases, premiums are unaffected. Some insurers may request installation certificates or installer accreditation details after completion.

When you install solar panels, you retain full ownership of your roof and the system. Older “rent a roof” schemes existed under previous government incentives, but these are no longer available. Under today’s Smart Export Guarantee scheme, homeowners own their systems outright.

Solar panels do not replace your roof in most cases. Traditionally, solar panels sit on mounting frames on top of your roof tiles. However, in recent years, integrated solar panels have become more popular. With integrated solar panels, these replace your roof tiles and are installed into frames mounted to the beams of your roof.

Solar installers do not usually replace roofs. Before installation, a survey is carried out to assess your roof for structural integrity, including weight and wind loading. If repairs are needed, you’ll be advised to complete them before installation to ensure your solar PV system performs safely and effectively for decades.

Solar panels can help to power a hot tub, but hot tubs require high levels of electricity. The most effective setup combines solar panels, battery storage and off peak charging. This allows energy intensive appliances to run more efficiently without excessive reliance on expensive grid power.