If you’re considering making the switch to solar then you need to know what a potential installer will be assessing. An understanding of what’s required before you speak to installers will help you choose the best company and deal for you. Failure to do this could make you vulnerable to the sales techniques of unscrupulous installers who can brush over important factors and fail to tell you about additional costs that could make your investment not so worthwhile.
What Good Solar Installers Will Consider
Roof Suitability
Ideally your roof should be south facing with a pitch between 30 – 40 degrees for maximum efficiency for solar power generating. The intensity of the sunlight that your roof absorbs is naturally key to the effectiveness of your solar panels. Your roof should receive unobstructed sunlight throughout the day. Wind force and if your home is in an area prone to heavy snowfall are also considerations that need to be discussed.
Roof Condition and Stability
Solar panels take up a fairly large area of a roof so it’s important that your roof is in a good enough condition and strong enough to support them. If it’s not then you may strengthening work may need to be undertaken on your roof to make it suitable. This can add to your costs, sometimes considerably so it’s vital this is considered prior to agreeing to an installation.
Suitability of Existing Electrical System
Solar installations are installed by electricians who will assess your existing electrical system to check that it can cope with the additional requirements and changes. If changes are needed to your electrical system a good solar installer will give you full details of the work that’s required including the cost of such modifications.
Other Considerations
Is your home listed? Do you live in a conservation or heritage area? If so you may need planning permission before you can proceed with solar installation.
Considering solar? MCS certified solar energy installers SunSolagy offer a free site survey and quotation including fully detailed projections on your return clearly set out earnings and savings. Installations start from £ 6,500. To book yours call 0800 644 6100 or use our online solar survey request form.
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