8 TOP TIPS WHEN GETTING SOLAR

1. Choosing the Right Installer

Finding the right installer is one of the most important steps in your solar journey, as a well-designed system makes all the difference to long-term performance and savings. A good installer will take the time to understand your home, your roof, how you use energy, and what your future plans might be, rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution. Smaller specialist installers can often offer more up-to-date equipment and a more tailored design, but whichever route you choose, it is worth checking accreditations, reviews, and previous work, and gathering a few quotes so you can feel confident and well supported in your decision.

2. Sizing Your Battery Sensibly

When it comes to batteries, bigger is not always better, and choosing the right size can help you get the most value from your investment. A battery works hardest—and delivers the best savings—when it is regularly charged and used to power your home each day. If it is too large, some of that capacity may sit unused, which can slow down payback and reduce overall benefit. Looking at your actual energy use and considering modular systems that can grow with you later is often a more balanced and reassuring approach.

3. Understanding Backup Power

It is completely understandable to assume that solar panels and batteries will keep your home powered during a blackout, but this is something that needs to be planned for specifically. Most systems are designed to switch off during a power cut for safety reasons, unless additional backup features are included. If having power during an outage is important to you, this can absolutely be built into the system with the right equipment and design. The key is simply to have that conversation early, so expectations and outcomes are aligned.

4. Protecting Your System from Birds

Adding bird protection is a small step that can provide a lot of peace of mind over the years. Solar panels naturally create a sheltered, warm space that birds and small animals may find appealing, even if you have never had issues before. Once nesting starts, it can be difficult and costly to resolve. Installing mesh at the outset is relatively inexpensive and helps prevent noise, damage, and unexpected maintenance, allowing you to enjoy your system without future worries.

5. Making the Most of Re-Roofing Opportunities

If you are already planning roof work, it can be a great opportunity to integrate solar in a more seamless and cost-effective way. In-roof systems replace the tiles beneath the panels, creating a cleaner appearance and making use of scaffolding that is already in place. While there are some design trade-offs, many homeowners appreciate the neat finish and efficiencies this approach can offer. For those who value aesthetics highly, solar tiles may also be worth exploring as part of the discussion.

6. Keeping Technology Simple Where Possible

Advanced technologies such as micro-inverters and optimisers can be helpful in certain situations, but they are not always necessary. For many homes with clear, unshaded roofs, simpler systems can be just as effective, more reliable, and easier to maintain over time. Fewer components on the roof often means fewer things to worry about in the long run. Asking for clear comparisons and explanations can help ensure that any additional technology genuinely adds value for your specific home.

7. Focusing on Reducing Bills Rather Than Trading Energy

It can be tempting to design a system around buying and selling electricity to take advantage of price differences, but this approach rarely delivers meaningful long-term benefits for most households. Batteries are usually far more effective when used to reduce the amount of electricity you need to buy from the grid. By focusing on powering your own home first, you create a more stable, predictable saving that is less dependent on changing tariffs and market conditions.

8. Thinking About How the System Fits Into Your Home

A solar and battery system is something you will live with for many years, so it is worth making sure it feels like a natural part of your home. Choices such as panel colour, cable routing, and where the battery is installed can have a big impact on how the system looks and functions day to day. Thinking about future plans, such as extensions or changes to living spaces, can also help avoid compromises later. With thoughtful planning, your system can be something you feel comfortable with and even proud of, rather than something you work around.

We are a Swansea-based renewable energy company specialising in bespoke solar PV and battery storage solutions. Founded by chartered engineer Ian Mach, the business designs and installs high-performing systems tailored to each customer’s property, budget and energy needs. Ulex Energy is MCS certified, carries out all installations using its own team, and provides a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee on workmanship.