Protecting your solar PV system is essential for efficiency, boosting savings, and ensuring you remain eligible for incentives like the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) [1]. Unfortunately, an increase in scams and aggressive marketing tactics has left some solar owners vulnerable to expensive mistakes. This blog highlights why regular checks, professional commissioning, and scam awareness are important to help you protect your investment.
Routine checks and fault-finding
Solar PV systems need little upkeep. However, regular checks keep them running smoothly. Keep an eye on your generation meter or inverter to make sure electricity is being generated, check for visible damage or misalignment, and clear debris such as leaves or nests.
It’s also worth checking for loose parts or roof damage, and knowing how to safely shut down your system in an emergency is vital. If you have any issues, contact your original installer or a trusted technician instead of responding to an unsolicited repair offer [2].
Commissioning and health checks
Commissioning, usually done after installation, tests and confirms that the system works as it should. Some companies offer ongoing health checks, but these shouldn’t be often and reasonably priced. Most solar systems come with warranties, making extra checkups rarely necessary.
When maintenance is needed, it typically includes a system assessment to make sure key components, like inverters or panels, are working properly, visual inspections for wear or loose parts, and electrical safety checks. The cost of any assessment should be discussed upfront.
Preventing scams
As solar ownership grows, so do scams targeting homeowners. Cold callers may offer ‘free health checks’ or push costly upgrades, claiming urgent repairs. Be wary if they can’t provide credentials or a clear explanation [3].
Some companies promote voltage optimisers as bill-savers, but these often provide limited benefits, with costs that may exceed savings. Inverters may need replacement during a system’s 20+ year lifespan, but early replacement without obvious faults is rarely necessary. Scammers may also falsely claim your installer is out of business to push their services – always verify before acting.
The importance of a second opinion
Barrington Solar recently helped a client who had been misled by a cold caller into believing their inverter needed an expensive replacement at £4,900. After contacting Barrington Solar, it emerged that the inverter was, in fact, in perfect working order but had simply been switched off by the cold-calling ‘representative’. That shows the value of checking information, getting second opinions, and working with reliable service providers. You can read more about this case here.
When choosing a provider, make sure they’re accredited by reputable organisations. Barrington Solar is certified by Trustmark, MCS and RECC. Working with accredited businesses can help protect against misleading sales practices.
Safeguarding your solar investment
By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your system from pricey services you don’t need. A professional inspection should always be transparent, clearly outlining the details and costs of the service. It’s important to take your time when making decisions, especially under pressure, and check any claims with your original installer or a trusted solar professional. To make the most of your solar investment it’s essential to remain informed and vigilant.
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