5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Solar Installer
Choosing the right solar installer is one of the most important decisions a homeowner will make when investing in solar. At Ramselec Solar, many clients come to us after receiving poor advice or unclear information from other providers. Understanding the most common mistakes helps homeowners choose a reliable installer, protect their investment, and secure the long-term performance of their solar system.
Table of Contents
1. Choosing Based on the Cheapest Price
2. Not Checking CEC Accreditation
3. Ignoring the Quality of After-Sales Support
4. Failing to Research the Equipment Brands
Key Takeaways
Choose accredited and experienced installers
Avoid low-quality products or unclear warranties
Compare quotes carefully and understand what is included
Prioritise transparent communication and proper documentation
Ensure the installer provides after-sales support
Choosing the right solar installer can make or break your entire investment. Solar is a long-term commitment, your panels will be on your roof for 20–25 years, so the last thing you want is to deal with poor workmanship, unreliable support or a system that underperforms. Unfortunately, many homeowners rush into solar decisions based only on price or flashy deals, and end up paying more in the long run.
To help you avoid the common traps, here are the top five mistakes to avoid when choosing a solar installer.
1. Choosing Based on the Cheapest Price
One of the biggest mistakes people make is selecting the absolute cheapest quote. Competitive solar market, bargain-basement systems often come with hidden compromises. Cheap installers typically cut corners in areas that aren’t immediately obvious.
Why this is a mistake
Low-quality panels and inverters may fail prematurely.
Installers may use subcontractors with minimal training.
You could be left with a system that underperforms or needs replacement within a few years.
Warranty support is often poor or non-existent.
How to avoid it
Compare systems based on value, not price.
Look for mid-range or premium components with proven performance.
Make sure the quote lists brand names and model numbers.
Ask what is included in the installation, not just the equipment cost.
A good installer won’t be the cheapest, but they’ll save you headaches and unnecessary expenses in the long run.
2. Not Checking CEC Accreditation
In Australia, any person installing solar panels must be accredited by the Clean Energy Council (CEC). This ensures they’ve undergone training and meet national industry standards. Many homeowners assume all installers are accredited, but that’s not always the case.
Why this is a mistake
Unaccredited installers may void your eligibility for government rebates.
Workmanship can be unsafe or non-compliant with Australian electrical standards.
You might end up with an installation that fails inspection or needs rework.
How to avoid it
Ask your installer for their CEC accreditation number.
Check the CEC website to ensure it’s valid.
Confirm that the actual person on your roof is accredited, not just the company.
A reputable installer will happily provide these details upfront.
3. Ignoring the Quality of After-Sales Support
Solar systems require long-term support. If something goes wrong, whether it's a faulty inverter, poor performance, or damaged cables, you need a company that actually answers the phone. Many fly-by-night solar retailers close within a couple of years, leaving homeowners with “orphaned systems” and no help.
Why this is a mistake
Warranty claims may be ignored or delayed.
Your system can underperform without your knowledge.
You may pay out of pocket for repairs meant to be covered.
How to avoid it
Choose a company with at least 5–10 years of proven operation.
Read independent reviews, not just testimonials on their website.
Ask how they handle warranty claims and response times.
Check whether they offer ongoing monitoring or service packages.
Strong after-sales support is often the difference between a system that performs well for decades and one that becomes a constant hassle.
4. Failing to Research the Equipment Brands
Another common oversight is not researching the panels and inverters included in the quote. Some installers will advertise big system sizes at low prices, but only because they’re using low-budget components that have a high failure rate.
Why this is a mistake
Poor-quality equipment can degrade quickly, producing less energy.
Cheap inverters often fail within 3–5 years.
Warranty support may be based overseas, making claims difficult.
Efficiency, performance, and safety can all be compromised.
How to avoid it
Check where the inverter and panels rank on independent comparison charts.
Look for tier-1 panel manufacturers and reputable inverter brands.
Ask about warranty terms:
Panel product warranty (usually 12–25 years)
Performance warranty (often 25 years)
Inverter warranty (typically 5–10 years)
Avoid quotes that don’t specify exact product names.
A trustworthy installer will explain why they use certain brands and how they perform in Australian conditions.
5. Not Getting a Proper On-Site Assessment
Some installers try to sell solar systems using only satellite images or quick online estimates. While technology helps, nothing replaces a proper roof inspection. Roof angles, shading, electrical switchboard condition, and structural layout all affect performance and safety.
Why this is a mistake
Panels may be placed in shaded or inefficient locations.
Roof space may be incorrectly measured, causing layout issues.
Extra electrical upgrade costs can appear later as “surprise fees”.
You could end up with reduced output if the design is rushed.
How to avoid it
Choose installers who perform on-site inspections.
Ask how they assess shading and roof suitability.
Request a detailed system design showing panel placement.
Make sure the quote includes all potential electrical upgrades.
A thorough roof and electrical assessment ensures you get a system tailored to your home, not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Conclusion
Avoiding these five mistakes helps homeowners choose a trusted solar installer and secure long-term value from their investment. A well-designed, professionally installed system delivers reliable performance, lower energy bills, and long-term protection. As part of our comprehensive solar install service, we ensure every system is tailored to your energy needs and built to last. For expert guidance and tailored solar solutions, contact us today. Our team is ready to help you select the right system and enjoy the full benefits of solar power.
FAQs:
How do I compare solar quotes properly?
Check panel and inverter brands, warranties, installation details, and support, not just price.
What questions should I ask a solar installer?
Ask about accreditation, experience, warranties, product quality, and who completes the installation.
Should I choose a local or national installer?
Choose the one with strong reviews, reliable support, and proven performance.
Can I install solar panels myself?
No. DIY solar is unsafe, illegal, and voids warranties and rebates.
Do solar installers need insurance?
Yes. They should have public liability insurance and electrical licences.
How long does solar installation take?
Most systems take about one day, depending on the roof and electrical work.
Do I need a switchboard upgrade for solar?
Some homes do. An on-site inspection will confirm if upgrades are required.
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