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- What if the panels aren't producing enough electricity? Will I ever be short?
If the panels aren't producing enough (e.g. if it is twilight) your normal energy supplier will 'kick in' and act as a top-up. The panels are the first source and then the energy supplier is on standby for surplus requirements.
- What about during the night? Where will my energy come from then?
During daylight hours, the solar panels are your primary source of energy. If there isn't enough light, your system will switch over to your usual supply.
- Is there a limit too how much electricity I can use at any one time?
Whatever is generated, you can use. So you can use as many electrical appliances as you wish at the same time. Energy not used is simply fed back into the grid.
- How much of a saving will I really make?
It depends on your usage, for example, if you use electricity a lot during the day then you will save more than heavy night time usage. We advise that solar panels could help reduce your energy bill by half.
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Do we need planning permission?
No. We only require planning permission if the property is listed or in a conservation area.
- Will strong winds knock the panels off?
No, this is not a risk. Due to the panels being assembled so close to the roof, there is limited space for wind to get underneath them. Also, the panels have been extensively tested and have displayed remarkable stability even in very severe weather conditions.
- What if my roof isn’t strong enough?
We’ve found the vast majority of roofs are strong enough to take solar installation without any further reinforcement.
- Will my electricity supply be affected during installation?
Only for around 25 minutes whilst our electrician completes the assembly.
- Will I be stuck with the same energy provider?
No. You have no binding commitment to any supplier. You can change anytime you wish.
- Do the panels create any noise?
None at all.
- Are the panels insured?
They are covered by product liability by the manufacturers. If you are on a free Government engergy initiative scheme, we will pay for the insurance – this will be in writing, in our Terms of Agreement.
- Do I need to do anything to the panels? Are there any switches?
Or is any upkeep necessary?
The solar panels are always 'on' and working all the time. At night time and when it's very dark, they will automatically switch to standby.
- Will I have to buy new appliances (e.g. microwave, cooker, hair dryer etc)?
No. Once the installation is complete, your appliances will operate as normal, with nothing further needed.
- What does KWh stand for?
kWh is a unit of measurable energy, which appears on your energy bill. If an electrical appliance has a designation of 1 KWh, it will consume 1 KWh for every hour it remains on full power
- How does the inverter work?
The DC current which is generated by the panels has to be converted into an AC current so that it can be used in your property – this is what the inverter does.
- What are the standard of the panels?
The panels are of the highest standard. We ensure that our products satisfy the criteria for our MCS approved licence
- What is the time length for installing the panels?
Normally from 1-2 days
- How much do the panels weigh?
Around 13kg per m2.
- Does my Mortgagee have to be contacted if I have the solar panels installed?
It depends. Some mortgagees do include a restriction whereby you have to inform them of the amendment to the house. To date, we have had no experience of mortgage providers objecting to this; since it is understood that the panels can add value and security to the property.
