I’m planning to go solar, how do I make sure my installer isn’t dodgy?

Going solar can be costly, so the last thing you want is someone cutting corners when installing your new system.

As the demand for solar energy systems has increased, so has the rise in unqualified, inexperienced and unscrupulous installers. This has resulted in many homes being left with inefficient or dangerous solar installations and others with nothing to show for their hard-earned cash.

It’s for this reason that Standard Bank’s home efficiency platform LookSee has focused on developing a solar journey that offers customers high quality installations, flexible financing, dedicated customer care and peace of mind.

Marc du Plessis, LookSee’s executive head, explains: “Solar power is a significant investment which, when done right, promises real return on investment for families. When it’s done wrong, however, it can land up costing a household far more than they expected and even result in structural damage that is not covered by the homeowner’s insurance policy.”

LookSee’s new low-cost Solar Loan offers families affordable financing for their solar dreams. With personalised interest rates capped at a maximum of Prime +2.5% on loans up to R300 000, the Solar Loan helps families get the right solar solution for their needs and budget.

ALSO READ: Standard Bank’s LookSee first to launch Solar Loan

But how can you ensure you choose a solar installer that won’t let you down? Du Plessis recommends some key factors to consider.

Qualifications and accreditation

Property owners looking to install solar equipment should use someone with relevant expertise, accreditation, and licences.

LookSee advises enlisting contractors registered with the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association or the Association for Renewable Energy Practitioners.

It’s essential to ensure the company you’re planning to use also has a qualified electrician on board to inspect the newly installed system and issue a compliance certificate after installation.

Reputation and experience

Professional experience and a good track record speak volumes, so when searching for a contractor, make sure they have a history of successful installations.

Just as you would when shopping online, read through potential installers’ reviews to find out what previous clients have to say about them.

Evaluate product quality

If your chosen installer will source the equipment on your behalf, you must inspect the quality of the parts used.

Request detailed information about the equipment on the quotation and cross-check the components with the invoice to make sure you’re not being scammed.

It’s also important to verify that solar equipment is sourced from well-known and reputable manufacturers, with the necessary manufacturer’s warranties in place.

ALSO READ: Is getting solar really worth it? Here’s how much you could save

Warranty and after-sales service

Remember your solar system is a long-term investment which needs constant servicing and maintenance. So, it’s important to find an installer who will stick with you for the long haul by offering a warranty on both their workmanship and the products they install.

LookSee recommends speaking to your potential installer about warranty terms and after-sales service before enlisting their help. This will give you peace of mind and guaranteed assistance if your system starts acting up.

Seek professional site assessment

Conducting a site inspection before making your big purchase is also a good idea. LookSee suggests getting a properly qualified and experienced solar installer to visit your home before they give you a quote.

That way, they can work out your specific needs, how much energy your solar system will likely generate, and which products are best for you.

They, or you, can also use LookSee’s handy Solar Score tool online. It gives your property a score based on how much solar power it’s likely to generate and is easy to use.

Ombud solar warning

It’s important to remember that if your system breaks because your installer used incorrect equipment, you won’t be allowed to invoke the Consumer Protection Act (CPA).

“You’re only covered if you provided the correct specifications or communicated the purpose for which you want to use the product, and the product is not fit for the purpose communicated,” Consumer Goods and Services Ombud Magauta Mphahlele says.

The ombud received 202 complaints between February 2022 and 2023 relating to solar systems and generators.

Mphahlele says consumers are generally not clued up on the requirements of their solar systems and its limitations.

“As a result, consumers are suffering enormous financial losses by purchasing incorrect equipment and/or, appointing unqualified installers.”

She recommends doing many of the steps suggested by LookSee before purchasing or installing your system.

In that way, the only installation you will have to worry about this holiday season is setting up the festive decorations.

ALSO READ: Keeping it clean: How to maximize your solar system’s performance