Common Mistakes Made by Incompetent Solar Battery Installers

Introduction

Choosing a reliable solar battery installer is crucial for homeowners looking to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. At GI Energy, we have been proudly serving Australian homes and businesses since 2011, setting ourselves apart in the solar energy installation industry where the average trading time is just 2.2 years. Unfortunately, the market is also filled with less experienced and unethical solar battery installers who can make costly and frustrating mistakes. In this blog, we will highlight common mistakes made by incompetent solar battery installers and provide tips on how to avoid them.

 

1. Not understanding the clients needs before suggesting a battery

 

The first step is really understanding the customer’s needs, then designing a battery to suit these needs.

So often we hear that people have simply asked for a battery and been quoted something that doesn’t suit what they actually need. IMagine asking a sales person for a car and them saying “Ok no problem, here is your car” and you just driving off in whatever they give you. It might be too small… too big…have too many seats…not enough seats… too slow… too fast… you get the point.

All batteries are not created equal.

Before suggesting which solar battery you should install, a solar and battery designer should fully understand: what is your primary goal for the outcome of this purchase? Do you want as much savings as possible or is back-up power for power cuts more important? Do you want to be able to charge the battery using grid power, or just solar power? Would you like to be able to charge the battery using solar power during the day in the event of a power cut? Are you focused on environmental savings or just financial?

There are many more questions here that should be asked, but these are the main ones. Every battery is very different, and without knowing exactly what you want, installers shouldn’t be recommending a battery.

2.Lack of Proper Solar Installer Licensing and Accreditation  

 

One of the most glaring mistakes made by inexperienced solar battery installers is the lack of proper licensing and accreditation. Licensed installers adhere to industry standards and regulations, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your solar system.

How to Avoid:

• Always check if your solar battery installer is accredited by the Clean Energy Council (CEC).

• Request to see their licensing documentation before signing any contracts.

 

3. Inadequate System Sizing  

 

Many inexperienced installers fail to properly size the solar battery system to match the homeowner’s energy needs. An undersized system can lead to frequent power shortages, while an oversized system can be a waste of money.

How to Avoid:

• Ensure the installer conducts a thorough energy audit of your home.

• Ask for a detailed explanation of how they determined the appropriate system size for your needs.

 

4. Poor Solar Battery Battery Equipments

 

Some solar battery installers cut corners by using subpar equipment to save costs. This not only affects the performance of your solar system but can also lead to frequent repairs and replacements.

How to Avoid:

• Research and insist on high-quality, reputable brands for your solar batteries and inverters.

• Ask for the specifications and warranty details of the equipment being installed.