Buy cheap, buy twice

I recently visited a site to look at an existing system to check if it met the current MCS standards as the installer was not qualified to issue the certificate and the client wanted reassurance that the system is safe.

I quickly identified numerous issues that will need resolving, such as roof hook spacing and the rail overhang from the last hook both exceeding the manufacturer’s limit. On one side of the array, the overhang is so large the panels are beginning to drop. In addition, when looking at the batteries and inverter, I found no earth bonding and – more concerning – the DC terminals were open to being touched and shorted out.

To try and check the manufacturer’s instructions for the batteries (I had not heard of the brand before), I tried to find the battery manual online and hit a brick wall. The manufacturer has gone out of business, there are no images of the batteries to be found and there are no batteries from this manufacturer for sale – even on eBay. I have advised the client that, unless we can find a manual and verify the batteries are approved for UK sale, they should be replaced.

So how can you make sure your installer doesn't use equipment that might leave you exposed? When you receive your proposal from the supplier, check that the equipment being offered is available from numerous outlets and has good reviews. Of course reviews could be false but, if well-known suppliers are stocking the kit, you can be fairly confident that it is legitimate. Two of the main suppliers in the UK are Segen and Midsummer, so they're a good place to start.

Other pitfalls of using imported or obscure equipment include a lack of warranty or technical support in case of post-installation issues. On our website, we list many of our recommended suppliers because we know they have great technical support and a reliable warranty. It's worth saying that there may be other good manufacturers but we just haven't used them yet!

In summary, "you pays your money and takes your choice" but, by trying to save on the installation cost, you may end up with a non-compliant system that is potentially unsafe and won't be supported by the manufacturer.