The Essential Guide to Solar Panel Installation: 10 Common Questions

If you're thinking about investing in solar panels for your home, you probably have a lot of questions. After all, solar panels are a big investment, and you want to make sure you're making a worthwhile investment. As a homeowner in the UK, you might be curious about things like whether the country's notoriously dreary weather will affect solar panel performance, or if you'll be able to generate enough energy to make it worth the investment. Fortunately, we've got all the answers to the most common questions UK homeowners ask about installing solar panels.

1. Will solar panels work in the UK's climate?

Yes, solar panels work efficiently in the UK's climate, as they rely on sunlight rather than heat. You don't need tropical weather to make solar panels work - even on cloudy days, solar panels are productive. You'll be generating your own renewable electricity, even in the winter. However, it's worth noting that more sunlight improves performance.

2. What kind of roof do I need for solar panels?

Most roofs can accommodate solar panels, including flat and sloping roofs. The direction and pitch of your roof, however, are important factors that affect solar panel performance. If you're unsure if your roof is suitable, a surveyor will be able to advise.

You'll generate the most renewable electricity if you have a south facing roof, but if you don't solar panels will also work on an east or west facing slope. Its just best to avoid north facing roofs as you'll unlikely get a performance you are happy with. You surveyor will also look at other factors like nearby trees and other buildings that might create shade.

To help you understand the potential for installing solar panels on your roof use our free quote tool. You don't even need to know the slope or direction of your roof. With our remote survey tool we'll figure out how to maximise your solar panel installation so you get the best reduction in your electricity bills. It literally takes less than 60 seconds to get an estimate.

3. How much do solar panels cost?

The cost of solar PV panel installation varies depending on the size of the system that your choose, where you live and other factors like how easy your roof is to access. However, on average, a 4kW solar panel system will set you back between £6,000 and £8,000. This includes the cost of the solar panels, solar inverter and labour costs. If you want to add a solar battery that would be on top.

There are government incentives available to help cover the cost, however, so it's worth looking into. At dwellow all of our installers are registered with the microgeneration certification scheme (or MCS for short) and so if there are UK government grants available in your area we'll help you apply.

4. How much energy will I generate with solar panels?

The amount of energy you can generate will depend on your location, the size of your solar panel system, and other factors. However, a 4kW solar panel system in the UK generates around 3,800 kWh a year. This is enough to power an average home for most of the year.

But when you use electricity will not always match with when your solar panels are producing electricity. Not to worry, you can add a solar battery to you solar panel installation which will store the electricity generated by your solar panels for use later when you're at home or have a higher demand.

The other option (or when your solar battery is full) is to sell the excess electricity back to the national grid. The national grid will pay you for the excess electricity that you don't use via what's called an export tariff. See your roof can really become a power station!

5. How long do solar panels last?

Solar panels are built to last. Most come with a warranty of 25 years, but they can last for more than 30 years with proper maintenance. Regular cleaning of the panels will help ensure that they stay efficient over time.

6. How do I know if a solar panel system will be a good investment for my home?

The investment in solar panels will depend on your energy usage, the size of your solar panel system, where you live in the country, and other factors. The best way to determine if solar panels are a good investment is first to get a quick estimation using our online tool (in under two minutes) and then speak to one of our renewable energy experts. They can provide an accurate estimate based on your individual needs.

7. Will installing solar panels increase the value of my home?

Yes, solar panels will increase the value of your home. Homes with solar panels installed are becoming more popular and sought after, so it's a great investment in your property.

In less than 60 seconds we can generate you an estimate of how effective a solar panel installation could be on your roof. We'll explain in simple terms how much renewable energy you should expect to produce and how much your electricity costs could reduce by based on how you use your home.

8. How do I find a reputable solar panel installer?

Research your solar panel installer thoroughly to ensure they are reputable. Look for positive reviews and ask for references. A reputable installer will have an MCS certification, which means they are qualified to install solar PV panels and follow industry standards.

We work with some of the best solar panel installers in the UK. They are all MCS registered, so you'll know the installation process will be managed by a trusted, local, installation team.

The installation process for an average solar PV system is often just a couple of days.

9. Do I need planning permission to have solar panels installed?

In most cases you won't need planning permission as solar panels fall under the permitted development rules, but there are some exceptions. If you live in a conservation area or a listed building, you may need planning permission. Check with your local planning office to be sure. If you chose dwellow to help with your solar panel installation then we'll check this as part of the project.

10. Will I still need to pay my energy bills if I install solar panels?

You will still need to pay your energy bills if you have a solar installation, but they will be much lower since you'll be generating your own energy. If you generate extra energy, you can even sell it back to the national grid for a profit for an export tariff. We'll help you get this all set up.

Conclusion:

Investing in solar panels is a great way to save money on energy bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and increase the value of your home. Whether solar panels are right for you depends on your individual circumstances, but hopefully, this guide has answered some of the most common questions UK homeowners have about solar panel installation.

If you want to know how much renewable energy your roof could produce. You can do that right here.

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