How to Choose the Right Solar Installer: Questions to Ask Before You Buy

Choosing the right solar installer is one of the most important steps in your renewable energy journey. A high-quality installation not only ensures your system performs efficiently, but also protects your long-term investment. With countless providers on the market, knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Here’s a simple, educational guide to help you ask the right questions before you commit.

Check for Proper Certifications and Accreditation

Before signing anything, always verify that your solar installer is properly accredited. In Australia, installers should be accredited by the Clean Energy Council (CEC), which sets the industry standard for competency and safety. A CEC-accredited installer ensures your system meets national guidelines and qualifies for government rebates and incentives.

Questions to ask:

• Are you a Clean Energy Council–accredited installer?

• How many systems have you installed?

• Do you subcontract, or is your team in-house?

Accreditation is your first layer of protection, confirming that the installer has the training and expertise needed to safely and correctly set up your system.

Understand the Warranties Provided

Solar warranties are not all created equal. A trustworthy installer should offer clear, transparent warranties covering both products and workmanship.

• Product Warranty:
  Covers defects in the solar panels, inverter, and other components. Quality panels typically offer 12–25 years of coverage.

• Performance Warranty:
  Guarantees your panels will still produce a certain percentage of power after 20–25 years.

• Workmanship Warranty:
  Covers the installation work itself, usually for 5–10 years.

Questions to ask:

• What product warranties are included, and for how long?

• Do you offer a workmanship warranty?

• Who handles warranty claims—you or the manufacturer?

A reputable installer will be happy to walk you through each warranty and explain what it means for your system’s long-term performance.

Ask About Installation Quality and Standards

High-quality solar installation is about more than just placing panels on a roof. It involves proper mounting, safe electrical work, shading analysis, and using reliable components. Poor installation can reduce system performance or create safety risks.

Questions to ask:

• What brands of panels and inverters do you use?

• How do you assess shading and roof suitability?

• What does your installation process look like?

Choose installers who prioritise quality over cutting corners. They should be transparent about their equipment, methods, and safety practices.

Check Reviews and Customer Experiences

Customer reviews give valuable insight into the installer’s professionalism and after-sales support. Look for patterns—consistent praise or repeated complaints can tell you a lot.

Questions to ask:

• Can you provide recent customer references?

• How do you handle service or maintenance requests?

Strong installers value customer relationships long after the installation is complete.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right solar installer isn’t complicated—it just requires asking the right questions. By checking certifications, understanding warranties, evaluating installation quality, and reviewing customer feedback, you can feel confident you’re investing in a trustworthy provider. A reputable installer will support you from the initial quote to long after your system is switched on, ensuring you enjoy the full benefits of clean, efficient solar power.

Get in touch today to start our journey together.

Stay committed!

Damien Frearson