Everything you need to know about solar panel installation

The thought of getting solar panels installed might seem daunting but we’re here to take you through the process step-by-step, from quote to aftercare, so you’ll be ready to begin your solar energy journey.

We are approved and certified by over 5 independent bodies and we pride ourselves in being accredited to ensure we supply trusted solar panels and professional installation. Our accreditations include EPVS verification, MCS approval, Trustmark, NAPIT and HIES accredited membership, giving you peace of mind that we only have trusted quality products, professional installation and the best customer experience.

Appointment

Before you book an appointment with a sales representative, it’s important to make sure you know exactly what questions to ask. Wickes Solar works with Solar Fast’s well-trained reps who know everything there is to know about the solar installation process and can give you information on costs, savings, and what will be best for you and your home. The quote you’ll get on this call will be an estimate and may not be the final number, but it’ll give you a good guide on how much you’ll be spending.

Survey

The sales team will then pass the information they’ve collected onto the survey team who will draw up a final quote for the installation. In most cases this will match your original quote, but it’s an extra opportunity to check that everything is present and correct. The survey team will also flag any risks or potential problems with the installation at this stage and will let you know if you’ll need to apply for a G99 certificate to get approval from the grid operator.

Scaffolding

Once everything’s been checked and approved, you’ll need scaffolding installed around your home. We’ll work with a trusted local scaffolding contractor to put up secure supports that will make the process easier and safer for Solar Fast’s installation team.

Rail and Panel Installation

The cheapest and most practical way to install solar panels is with a combination of rails and brackets. A secure hook is fastened to the rafters underneath your roof tiles and the rails are attached to these exposed hooks across the length of the solar array. We use a safe and strong installation method that uses friction to hold the rail and the edge of the solar panel securely in place. This system has been tested for heavy rain, hail and even hurricanes, so you know it’s reliable. The panels are then laid on top of the rails, ready to be connected.

Panel Connection

Once the panel installation is complete, PV connectors (sometimes called MC4 connectors) are linked. Depending on your inverter technology, this can be done in series or in parallel, but you won’t have to worry about this as our installation experts have it covered. It’s just best to note which type of installation you have in case anything needs replacing in the future. What is important to remember is that you must never connect or disconnect panels when the inverter is drawing power as this could cause damage.

Inverter and Battery Installation

One of the most important parts of solar power is the inverter. This is responsible for converting DC power to AC power so it can be used in your home. It also feeds excess electricity to the grid. Our experts will choose the right inverter size for your needs, and then install it in the best place. This is somewhere in your home that’s sheltered from the sun, like a loft or the garage. Installed along with the inverter, a battery will help you to save money. And as an added bonus, VAT on solar panel installation is zero because it’s part of an energy saving solution. It’s a win-win!

Set up for the Future

To make sure that electricity is fed to the home, battery and grid, a specially designed device will be connected. And now you’re ready to start harvesting your solar energy!

Now that you can feed your electricity to the grid, energy suppliers are legally obligated to offer you an SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) to pay you for any excess electricity you may generate. It’s best to look into several companies as offers can go from 2p per kWh to 24p, so you’ll want to get the best deal.

Once everything is up and running, with Wickes Solar powered by Solar Fast, you can monitor your energy usage, storage, and how much is going to the grid via an app. Your panels can last up to 50 years or more and, when you install with us, we’ll even replace any additional batteries and inverters, keeping your system running at all times. Details of this will be included in your initial quote, but you shouldn't need a replacement for at least 10 years. The panel product guarantee is 25 years, the panel performance guarantee is 30 years and the battery and inverter product guarantee is 12 years.