What to look out for when receiving solar quotes
Your Complete Solar Guide
Author
Harry Dexter | Operations Director
Table of Contents
Author
Harry Dexter | Operations Director
Table of Contents
Introduction
When receiving quotes for solar it’s important that you understand what’s been presented to you so you can effectively compare quotes. Below we’ve outlined what to look out for when receiving solar quotes
Key Factors To Compare in Your Solar Quote
As mentioned previously, when deciding on “the best” solar panels, its important to look at both quality, cost and .
System Size & Output
What to check: Compare the kilowatt (kW) size of the system and it’s expected output (in Kwh/year)
Why it matters: Larger systems typically generate more power, but it depends on what your ambitions are. If they are to generate enough energy to power your home then you may not need to pay for a larger system. However, if you are looking to also store and sell excess energy, finding the right balance of system size is important.
Equipment Quality
What to check: The brand and model of the solar panels and inverters.
Why it matters: The quality of the equipment can affect performance, lifespan, and energy efficiency. It’s important to understand the different brands being offered and their respective quality. You can find out more about the different brands of solar equipment on our website.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
What to check: Length of the warranty for the panels, inverters, and installation. Pay attention to both product and workmanship warranties.
Why it matters: Strong warranties indicate the company’s confidence in their product. A reliable warranty can save you significant costs in case of equipment failure or under performance.
Installation Costs and Timeline
What to check: Breakdown of installation costs and how long installation will take.
Why it matters: Costs should be transparent within your quote, and the installation timeline should be realistic. A well-managed installation ensures your system runs efficiently from day one.
Upfront Costs vs. Long-Term Savings
What to check: Ensure the total cost reflects the system size, quality of solar panels and equipment & installation services.
Why it matters: A cheaper quote may seem attractive, but if it’s based on low-quality equipment or subpar service, you may pay more in the long run through repairs or lower energy savings.
Pay Back Period
What to check: The length of time (Years) it will take you to recuperate the cost of your system.
Why it matters: The pay back period is calculated through the performance of the system vs the upfront cost of the system. In short, the shorter the pay back period the better. It’s important to check in your quotes when you’ll recuperate the cost of your investment if you are considering selling down the line.
Red Flags to Look Out For When Receiving Solar Quotes
Poor Business Reputation
What to check: Lack of customer reviews, case studies, and testimonials.
Why it matters:A reliable company will have a good track record for customer service and successful installations. Don’t hesitate to ask for references or look for independent reviews.
Pushy Sales Tactics
What to check: High-pressure sales strategies or time-limited offers.
Why it matters: A professional solar provider will give you the time and space to make a decision. Be wary of aggressive tactics or deals that require an immediate commitment.
Unrealistic Promises
What to check: Quotes that promise “too good to be true” savings or overly optimistic performance estimates.
Why it matters: Solar is an investment, and there are no quick fixes or magic solutions. If a quote sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Lack of Detailed Information
What to check: If the quote doesn’t provide enough detail about system components, costs, or savings.
Why it matters: Transparent quotes should provide clear breakdowns of system specs, pricing, and performance expectations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right solar panel system is a big decision, and comparing quotes can feel overwhelming. However, by paying attention to what to look out for in your solar quotes in this guide—such as system size, equipment quality, warranties, and total costs—you can confidently evaluate your options and make the best choice for your home and budget.
Remember, it’s important to ask questions and seek clarity on any aspects of the quote that feel unclear. A trustworthy provider will be transparent, patient, and happy to help you understand the details.
If you need any further assistance or have questions about any of the quotes you’ve received, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help you make an informed and confident decision.
If you’d like to read more about Which Solar Panels are Best, read our linked blog,
Thank you for considering us for your solar needs!
