Thinking About Solar Panels? 10 Questions You Should Ask Before Signing a Contract
Solar panels are one of the best upgrades you can make to your home. They reduce your energy bills, shrink your carbon footprint, and move you towards genuine energy independence. It’s no wonder so many homeowners are making the switch.
However, this surge in popularity has also attracted a flood of fast-talking salespeople and quick-fix installers. In a crowded market, it's easy to focus on the headline price, but the cheapest quote is rarely the best value. Without asking the right questions, you could end up with an undersized system, surprise costs down the line, or simply a solution that doesn't live up to its promises.
That’s why we believe in empowering you with knowledge. It's time to look beyond the price and ask smarter questions that reveal the true value and quality of a solar installation.
Beyond the Price Tag: Why Deeper Questions Matter
A quality solar PV system is a long-term investment in your home's future. To protect that investment, you need to understand exactly what you're buying. The critical details are often hidden in the assumptions a company makes.
For example:
- Are the savings genuine? Some installers use inflated, best-case-scenario energy prices to make their savings calculations look more attractive than they really are. You need a transparent quote based on realistic numbers.
- What are the full lifecycle costs? A solar system has components, like inverters and batteries, that won't last forever. If these future replacement costs aren't included in the long-term return on investment (ROI) calculation, you're not seeing the full picture.
- Who is fitting your system? The quality of the equipment means nothing if the installation is poor. Subcontracted work can lead to a lack of accountability, whereas an experienced, in-house team that 21 Degrees employs, ensures quality control from start to finish.
These are just a few of the areas where a lack of clarity can cost you dearly. From grid applications and insurance to the real-world performance of your battery, the details make all the difference.
Your Essential Pre-Installation Checklist: Download the Free Guide
To help you navigate the process with confidence, we’ve put all these crucial questions and the reasons they matter, into a straightforward, free guide.
Download 10 Vital Questions to Ask Before You Buy, and learn exactly what to ask any potential installer about:
- Financials: How to spot fake payback periods and hidden future costs.
- Hardware: How to ensure you're getting the right panels and battery for your home, not just what an installer needs to shift.
- The Process: How to confirm your installer is experienced, insured, and handles all the necessary red tape properly.
This guide cuts through the sales talk and gives you the power to choose a solar partner, not just a panel fitter.
The 21 Degrees Approach: Smart Energy Done Properly
At 21 Degrees, we believe in a better way. We were founded on a commitment to challenge outdated, wasteful methods and champion sustainable living through expert knowledge and superior technology.
Our approach is built on transparency and a focus on whole-building performance. Our in-house team of experts designs and installs every system to deliver long-term savings, comfort, and genuine peace of mind. No subcontractors, no hard sell, just honest advice and beautifully integrated solutions.
If you have questions about a quote you've already received, or you're ready to explore what a properly designed solar system could do for your home, our team is here to help.
Call us today on 01904 946609 or email solar@21degrees.com for a no-obligation chat.
Together, we can change the way you think about energy.




