Things To Consider When Comparing A Solar Quote System

When comparing solar quotes, it’s important to look beyond just the price. Here’s a detailed checklist of what to consider to ensure you’re getting the best value, performance, and warranty for your solar system investment:

✅ 1. Total Solar System Cost

• Compare apples to apples: Ensure each quote includes the same size system (e.g., 5kW vs 6kW).

• Watch out for hidden fees (scaffolding, permits, grid connection, etc.).

✅ 2. Solar Panel Quality and Brand

• Are the solar panels Tier 1 (bankable, proven manufacturer)?

• Check for:

  • Warranty duration (typically 25 years performance warranty)

  • Efficiency rating (higher = more power per square meter)

  • Manufacturer reputation

📌 Common reputable brands: SunPower, REC, JA Solar, Q CELLS, Trina, Canadian Solar

✅ 3. Inverter Type and Quality

• Is it a string inverter, microinverter, or hybrid?

  • Microinverters (e.g., Enphase) allow individual panel monitoring

  • String inverters are cheaper but less flexible

• Check:

  • Efficiency rating

  • Warranty (typically 5–10 years, extendable to 20)

✅ 4. Battery Storage (If Included)

• Is a battery included? If so:

  • Capacity (kWh)

  • Usable capacity

  • Round-trip efficiency

  • Cycle life and warranty

  • Compatibility with future expansion

✅ 5. Installation Quality & Certification

• Is the installer:

  • MCS-certified

  • A member of RECC or HIES

  • A member of EPVS

• Look for experience and customer reviews.

• Ask if they subcontract or use in-house teams.

✅ 6. Monitoring and Smart Features

• Does the solar system include monitoring software?

  • App or web access to track performance

• Optional add-ons:

  • EV charging integration

✅ 7. Warranties and Guarantees

• Panel performance warranty (usually 25 years)

• Product (hardware) warranty (10–25 years)

• Workmanship/installation warranty (often 2–10 years)

• Inverter warranty (5–10 years)

✅ 8. Payback Period and ROI

• Ask for a clear payback period estimate (how long until you recoup your investment).

• Are projected savings realistic based on your usage?

• Include maintenance and replacement costs in the long term.

✅ 9. Financial Options

• Are there purchase, lease, or finance options?

• Understand:

  • Interest rates (if financed)

  • Ownership implications

  • Whether savings exceed repayments

✅ 10. After-Sales Support & Maintenance

• What ongoing customer support is offered?

• Do they provide:

  • Annual maintenance?

  • System health checks?

  • Fault diagnosis and repair?

⚠️ Red Flags to Watch For

• Unrealistic savings promises (e.g., “free energy forever”)

• High-pressure sales tactics (drastically reducing the price after initial quote or stating this price is only valid for today)

• Vague system specs (no brand or model names)

• Lack of registration with official UK bodies (MCS, RECC)

If you are considering saving money on your energy bills by having a solar system installed Contact us at Electrotec for a free solar or battery storage quotation