Top 5 Questions to Ask Before Installing a Solar System
As professionals in the energy industry, we understand that choosing to invest in solar power is a significant decision. Whether you’re aiming to reduce electricity bills, minimise environmental impact, or gain energy independence, it’s essential to approach the process with the right information. Below, we detail the top five critical questions every homeowner or business should ask before installing a solar system. These questions are not only vital for making an informed decision but also for ensuring the long-term efficiency and reliability of your investment.
1. What Is My Current and Future Energy Consumption?
Assessing Your Energy Needs Accurately
Before installing a solar system, it’s crucial to evaluate your historical energy usage. Examine your electricity bills over the past 12 months to determine monthly and seasonal fluctuations. This will help in:
Sizing the solar system appropriately
Understanding if battery storage is needed
Identifying opportunities for energy efficiency improvements before going solar
We recommend documenting your average daily kWh usage and noting any expected changes in the future—such as installing air conditioners, electric vehicles, or expanding your property. A well-sized system prevents both underperformance and unnecessary overspending.
Tools and Professional Load Assessment
Work with a qualified technician to conduct a load analysis. This includes identifying high-consumption devices, calculating peak load, and evaluating power factor. Precise data leads to tailored system design and optimal performance.
2. What Type of Solar System Best Fits My Needs—Grid-Tied, Hybrid, or Off-Grid?
Grid-Tied Systems
Perfect for properties with stable grid access and high energy bills. These systems:
Rely on net metering where available
Do not offer backup during outages unless paired with battery storage
Hybrid Systems
A hybrid solar system combines grid connectivity with battery storage, allowing users to store excess energy for later use. Benefits include:
Protection from power outages
Load shifting for peak hours
Greater independence from fluctuating utility bills
Off-Grid Systems
Designed for remote areas or users seeking complete energy independence, these systems require:
Adequate battery capacity
Smart load management
Reliable solar sizing and component selection
Understanding your location’s grid reliability, budget constraints, and energy goals will help you choose the appropriate configuration.
3. How Reliable Are the Components—Panels, Inverter, Batteries, and Mounting Structure?
Solar Panels
Not all solar panels are created equal. When evaluating panels, look into:
Efficiency ratings (typically 18–22% for high-quality modules)
Warranty terms—aim for 25 years performance warranty
Temperature coefficient—better performance in high heat
Certifications such as IEC, UL, or TUV
Top-tier manufacturers like LONGi, JA Solar, Canadian Solar, and Jinkooffer dependable modules for residential and commercial installations.
Inverter Quality
The inverter is the brain of your solar system, converting DC electricity from panels into usable AC power. Choose inverters with:
High conversion efficiency (95% and above)
Smart monitoring capabilities
Brand reputation—consider SRNE,DEYE or Growatt
Battery Considerations
If opting for hybrid or off-grid systems, invest in lithium batteries with:
Deep cycle capability (80–100% DoD)
Long lifespan (over 6,000 cycles)
Built-in Battery Management System (BMS)
Scalable modular design
Brands like SRNE and TAICO are known for robust battery technology.
Mounting Structures and Safety
Ensure your installer uses corrosion-resistant mounting systems (aluminium or galvanised steel) tailored to your roof’s design. Mounting affects wind resistance, shading, tilt angle, and long-term structural integrity.
4. Is My Roof (or Ground Space) Suitable for Solar Installation?
Structural Integrity and Orientation
A qualified installer should evaluate your roof’s:
Material (metal, tiles, shingles, etc.)
Age and condition—old or damaged roofs may need repair before installation
Orientation and tilt angle—ideally south-facing in the southern hemisphere and north-facing in the northern hemisphere
Shading from trees, buildings, or other obstructions
If your roof is unsuitable, consider ground-mounted systems, carports, or custom canopy solutions.
Available Space and Panel Layout
Determine how many solar panels your roof can accommodate based on:
Available square meters
Wattage per panel
Clearance requirements around the array
A skilled installer will design a system that maximises exposure while adhering to local codes and manufacturer recommendations.
5. What Is the Total Cost, ROI, and Maintenance Plan?
Upfront vs. Lifetime Costs
Understanding the total cost of ownership is essential. This includes:
Equipment and installation
Wiring and protection devices
Battery (if applicable)
Remote monitoring tools
While high-quality systems may cost more upfront, they deliver better long-term ROI through durability, warranty support, and higher efficiency.
Return on Investment (ROI)
Calculate your payback period based on:
Energy savings per month
Reduced reliance on diesel or grid electricity
A properly sized system can yield ROI in 3 to 6 years, depending on consumption and location.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
Ensure your installer provides:
Workmanship warranty (5–10 years minimum)
Panel, inverter, and battery warranties aligned with manufacturers
Monitoring platform access (e.g., mobile apps or web dashboards)
Regular maintenance checks and cleaning services
Choose a company with local presence, verified installations, and strong client reviews.
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Conclusion
Knowing the right questions to ask before installing solar systems helps you avoid future headaches and maximises the benefits of your investment. Choose a trusted solar partner like us who offers transparent pricing, high-quality components, expert design, and full after-sales support.
At every stage—from consultation and design to installation and maintenance—our goal is to deliver tailored, future-ready solar solutions that empower homeowners and businesses to harness the full potential of solar energy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long do solar panels last?
Most high-quality panels last 25 to 30 years. Some continue working even beyond that—just with slightly reduced efficiency.
2. Will solar work during a blackout?
If you’re on a grid-tied system without batteries—nope. But if you’ve got a hybrid or off-grid setup with storage, you’ll have backup power during outages.
3. Can I expand my solar system later?
Absolutely. Many systems are designed to be scalable. Just make sure your inverter and battery (if any) can handle the extra load.
4. Is maintenance difficult?
Not at all. Occasional cleaning and annual inspections should keep your system running smoothly. Some setups offer remote monitoring for peace of mind.
5. What happens on cloudy or rainy days?
Your panels will still generate power, just at lower levels. That’s why storage (like batteries) or grid connection helps smooth things out
For a free consultation, reach us via:
Phone Number:0759493610
Email: info@voltmticenergysolutions.co.ke