10 Essential Questions to Ask Your Solar Installer Before You Buy
- Tom Clarkson
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Thinking about investing in solar energy for your home or business? Choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right system. At Optimum Electrics, we believe in informed decisions, transparency, and long-term value. Whether you're considering solar panels, battery storage, or a full hybrid system, here are the top 10 questions you should ask your solar installer before committing.
1. Are You MCS Certified?
Always start with certification. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is the industry standard in the UK for solar PV installations. It ensures that your installer meets strict quality and performance standards – and is essential for eligibility for SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) payments.
2. Can You Provide a Tailored Solar PV Design Based on My Home and Energy Usage?
A quality installer should offer more than a “one-size-fits-all” solution. Ask for a system designed around your energy consumption habits, roof space, orientation, and future energy goals (like EV charging or heating upgrades).
3. What Brands of Panels, Inverters, and Batteries Do You Recommend – and Why?
There are hundreds of options on the market. Find out what makes your installer’s equipment choices reliable, efficient, and long-lasting. At Optimum Electrics, for example, we work with AIKO, SigEnergy, and Tesla to name a few – based on proven performance, warranties, and software usability.
4. What Is the Expected Return on Investment (ROI)?
Any good installer should provide you with a financial breakdown:
Estimated annual savings on energy bills
Payback period
Export income (if applicable)
Potential increases in property value
Bonus: Ask about time-of-use tariffs and how a battery system can increase ROI by storing excess solar for evening use.
5. How Will the Installation Affect My Roof or Property?
Ask whether the mounting system is in-roof or on-roof, and if it requires any structural reinforcements. Reputable installers will carry out a roof survey and provide GSE-compliant in-roof solutions if aesthetics or fire regulations require them.
6. Will You Handle the DNO Application and Grid Connection?
Connecting your system to the national grid requires a DNO (Distribution Network Operator) application. A trusted installer like Optimum Electrics will manage this process from start to finish and advise on any capacity limitations or three-phase upgrades if needed.
7. Do You Offer Battery Storage or EV Charging Integration?
A future-proof solar system should be battery-ready or include modular energy storage from the outset. It’s also wise to ask about EV charger integration, especially if you own or plan to buy an electric vehicle.
8. What Warranties Do You Offer on the Equipment and Installation?
Look for:
Panel performance warranties (typically 25 years)
Inverter warranties (usually 5–10 years, with extensions available)
Battery warranties (commonly 10 years or a set number of charge cycles)
Workmanship guarantee (usually 2–10 years depending on the installer)
9. What Support Is Available After Installation?
Ask about post-installation support, including:
System monitoring apps
Ongoing maintenance packages
Emergency call-outs or fault diagnostics. A good installer should ensure you’re not left in the dark if issues arise.
10. Can You Share Reviews, Case Studies, or Previous Projects?
Reputation matters. Ask for solar client testimonials or case studies similar to your project. This gives insight into real-world performance, customer service, and installation quality.
Why Choose Optimum Electrics?
We’re a trusted, MCS-certified solar installer based in Peterborough, proudly serving homes and businesses across the UK. With over a decade of experience and a focus on solar PV, battery storage, EV charging, and smart home integration, we help you make the most informed, energy-smart decision possible.
Looking to install a solar PV system on your home or business premises? Contact our team today for expert advice and a free, no-obligation quote and solar design.
01733 601698