In this guide, you will learn how to find a good solar installer and what questions you should ask them before installing photovoltaics. We will also reveal what qualifications a reputable PV installer should have.
First things first
What is a solar installer?
A solar installer installs and maintains solar systems for generating electricity and heat.
How much does a solar installer cost?
The costs for a solar installer amount to up to 20% of the investment costs of a PV system.
qualification and training
Solar installer is a recognized profession that requires specific training and qualifications.
How do I find a solar installer?
Be sure to compare several offers. Use our form at the bottom of the article to do so.
What is a solar installer?
A solar installer is an electrician with additional qualifications for the design, installation and maintenance of photovoltaics and solar thermal systems. He oversees the entire process from planning to purchasing to completion of a solar system. He assesses the site conditions, forecasts the system's yield, advises on module selection and plans the project.
However, not everyone can become a solar installer. The specialization requires technical knowledge and completed training.
What training does a solar installer have?
The advanced training to become a solar installer is aimed at masters and journeymen in relevant professions. It requires specialist training as a plant mechanic, plumbing, heating and air conditioning technician or energy and building technician. The advanced training to become a solar installer is approved by the Chamber of Crafts.
What qualifications and certifications are important for a solar installer?
The Chamber of Crafts requires a master craftsman title or proof of two years of professional experience as a journeyman in solar technology. At the end of the course, participants must take a practical and theoretical exam. In the practical exam, they must complete tasks in the field of photovoltaics as well as the solar thermal energy The theoretical exam includes the planning and dimensioning of a solar system as well as general tasks on customer advice, UPS regulations and occupational safety.
How do I find a good solar installer nearby?
If you want to have a solar system installed, the following tips will help you find a good solar installer:
- references Get advice: Ask friends and acquaintances for recommendations. Positive experiences are often shared;
- Local providers choose: A solar installer from your region can respond more quickly to problems with your PV system. This saves both time and travel costs. In addition, local providers are usually smaller companies with efficient processes and faster decision-making. This means that communication channels are shorter and more direct. And finally, national providers often rely on regional subcontractors, which increases costs. The more companies are involved, the higher the final costs will be;
- solar installer check: Before you hire a specialist company, you should check the partners you have chosen. Check the company register of the Federal Gazette Publishing House to see if the company exists. This will show how long the company has been in existence. An important factor to consider - older companies have more experience, which is important for craft businesses;
- on-site appointment is mandatory: Good solar installers offer a free on-site appointment before making an offer. After the inspection, circuit diagrams are drawn up, suitable components are selected and profitability and yields are calculated. It is customary in the industry that this appointment is free of charge.
The most important: Compare several offers and don't hire the first solar installer you find in your area. You can use our form for this. Fill it out and we will connect you with up to five qualified and certified solar installers from your region - free of charge and without obligation. By comparing offers, you can save up to 30% on your purchase.
What questions should I ask the solar installer?
1. Ask for references
Ask for references first. If the company refuses to provide them, be cautious. The internet is also a valuable source. Search for customer reviews on Google. Social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter are also useful. Do you notice any recurring patterns in the reviews?
2. Ask about warranty and product and performance guarantees
Solar panels are typically low maintenance and will operate smoothly for at least 25 years, but it's important to know what to do in the unlikely event of damage.
Ask your solar company about repair and replacement services, as well as product and performance warranties. Ask how many years of warranty are provided for the PV modules, inverter and battery storage system. Also clarify who is responsible for ensuring warranty services are met. Make sure that the product warranty covers the cost of shipping and labor for product replacement.
- If you have questions about the components of the solar system, can you contact the solar installer or do you have to contact the manufacturer?
- How do you reach the solar installer in an emergency?
- Does the company offer a performance guarantee if the solar system does not produce as much electricity as predicted?
Be careful with performance guarantees for solar modules
PV modules lose performance as they age. The performance guarantee refers to a guaranteed performance that the modules must still deliver after a certain period of time. The performance guarantee is usually longer than the product guarantee.
However, the performance guarantee is irrelevant for private consumers because:
- It does not protect against failures
- You would have to send the module to the laboratory to claim the guarantee. The guaranteed values usually only apply under certain conditions.
Therefore, do not be blinded by the statements about the long performance guarantee. The product guarantee is much more important.
3. Ask about subcontractors
Ask whether the solar installer will do the installation himself or use subcontractors. If he uses subcontractors, ask these questions beforehand:
- Which tasks require the use of a subcontractor? And what are the reasons for using one?
- Who is the subcontractor and where is he located?
- How long do the solar installer and the subcontractors work together?
- Who is responsible for the guarantee of the installed photovoltaic system?
- Is the solar company responsible for ensuring that the subcontractor complies with occupational health and safety standards?
- Does the subcontractor comply with occupational health and safety regulations and is it adequately insured?
5. Ask about occupational safety and insurance
Before starting work, find out if scaffolding or a special ladder is required to install the solar system. Find out if health and safety measures will be followed when working on the roof and electrical system. Make sure the solar company is insured in case of damage to your property.
How much does a solar installer cost for photovoltaics?
The costs for a solar installer account for up to 20% of the total costs of a photovoltaic system. This corresponds to around €200 to €350 per installed kWp. The size of the PV system has a direct impact on the installation costs per square meter. The larger the system, the lower the proportion of installation costs.
Can I install a PV system myself?
You can install a PV system yourself. However, a solar installer is required for the complete installation of a PV system. Only he is allowed to connect the system to the grid. the commissioning of a PV system by a solar installer as required by law.
However, the installation on your own has some risks:
- Incorrect design and incorrect installation lead to performance losses. This means you do not achieve the desired yields and returns;
- Warranty and insurance claims will be void. In the event of damage, you will have to cover the costs yourself;
- Installing the PV system without professional assistance involves significant risks, including the possibility of electric shock or fire;
- The more complex the roof shape, angle and roof covering, the more difficult it is to install a PV system. If you install it yourself, you may risk your health and damage to your house.
