Are you getting what you paid for?

Posted on 20 February 2018

Are you getting what you paid for?

What solar installers are supposed to provide their customers when completing a solar installation

A solar installation for your home can be an exciting time. You can feel good about doing something positive to help our environment by adapting your home to renewable energy, while you can also look forward to cost savings as your electricity bill is bound to be reduced following the installation.

But sometimes you do need to be wary during the installation process to ensure you are truly getting what you paid for. Once you’ve chosen the retailer you want to go with, have spoken with them about your solar plans, and then signed on the dotted line, it will be time to go ahead with the solar installation.

At this point, it’s important you are receiving everything you need both legally and for practical reasons from your retailer, so you can ensure you’re getting the best service you deserve, and installing your solar system with confidence.

The importance of checking all the documentation you receive from your retailer

When you have signed your contract with your solar system installer, they will then inform you the date of when your system will be installed, and organise a time for them to come around. On the day of the installation, the retailer should bring along all the necessary documentation you need to complete the installation.

You need to ensure you go through the checklist below to be certain you have received all the paperwork you need for the lifetime of your solar system’s operation. This documentation is important should you want to make any warranty or insurance claims in the future. If you feel you haven’t received all the appropriate documentation you need, make sure you contact your retailer immediately, so they can send out anything you need or are missing right away.

What documentation you should receive from your solar system installer

The documentation you need to receive from your retailer should include details on what happens if there is an emergency shutdown for maintenance and what to do if an earth fault alarm is activated. You will also be given a list of the system’s equipment for reference.

You should also receive paperwork with information regarding all the details of your solar panels’ inverter serial numbers.

You will also be given details on your solar system’s estimated performance, along with information and requirements about how you need to look after the system. This normally comes in the form of a maintenance outline and timetable.

Other documents you will receive include the commissioning sheet and a checklist for your system’s installation. You will also be given a PV array frame engineering certificate which can be used for the system’s wind and mechanical loading.

For safekeeping, you will also be given a notice showing the system complies with installation and design guidelines, as well as warranty details and all the handbooks needed for the equipment, which will be supplied by the manufacturer along with the equipment documentation.

Remember to check these details when getting your solar system installed, and it will help prevent any mishaps in the future.

Solar Power Direct is a proud member of the Smart Energy Council, working towards a safe climate and a strong renewable economy.