When it comes to solar panels, quality makes all the difference. Just like any product on the market, you can buy high-quality, low-quality, or anything in-between. And, like any installation work, the quality of the workmanship can vary from high-quality craftsmanship to poor-quality installations being installed as fast as possible without care or consideration.
Why is quality important?
Good solar panel installations are expected to last 30+ years. That is a long time to be working every day, sitting out in the elements getting wet, hot, cold, etc. If you don’t make sure you invest in quality components to begin with, you will end up paying more in the long run.
At CRL Energy Ltd, we only use the highest quality components, installed with care and consideration. We have been in the industry for a long time, and we have seen lots of changes. We have seen international manufacturers appear and disappear; we have seen local installers start-up and cease trading. Through this, we have learned the importance of installing quality components and systems.
We frequently repair systems that other companies have installed who are no longer around to maintain them. Most of these systems would have still been working fine if they had originally used high-quality products.
But what does quality mean in solar PV systems? How do you identify it?
It’s quite a tricky area, and many people have their opinions. However, after our many years in the industry, we would say quality is about six main things:
If you have all of these covered, then your system will perform well, and if it doesn’t, it will be repaired or replaced ASAP, whether it is in or out of its warranty period. At CRL Energy Ltd, we take quality very seriously, and we think you should too.
Installation Company
The most important area to look at is the installation company. If they are a good-quality installer, everything else should fall into place. They will ensure that the components are top brands, that the warranties and technical support are excellent, that the system design has been carried out properly, and that the installation workmanship is second to none. They will feel a sense of responsibility for your system throughout its lifetime over the decades ahead. This is CRL Energy Ltd’s approach. We have been involved in the solar industry since 1999. It’s our passion, and we are in this industry for the long haul. And we don’t want to waste time and money in the future repairing people’s systems! That’s why we only use the best components from the outset and install to the highest standards.
You know that when you choose a CRL Energy Ltd system, you are always getting a high-quality installation.
System Design
This aspect is crucial to the overall performance of the system and its future reliability. Panels and inverters have to be carefully matched, and many variables can make a difference to the design:
- The electrical characteristics of the panels and the inverter
- The orientation and pitch of the array
- Any shading issues, etc.
CRL Energy Ltd carries out individual designs for every property we quote for. We don’t have set ‘kits’ or products that we try to promote. We look at each property and system individually and will specify components based on our conversations with the customer and the site specifics.
We design bespoke installations that ensure the system is perfectly matched for the property or site, guaranteeing maximum performance and reliability.
System Components
Secondly, you want high-quality components. You want them to perform well, meeting or exceeding performance expectations with maximum reliability. You want panels and inverters that have been manufactured to the highest international quality standards. CRL Energy Ltd’s main product range goes way beyond the required international standards in terms of their stress testing and quality checks. Most have gained recognition of this through positive results from independent studies, such as LG Solar’s PID tests, Solar Edge’s Photon Review, or UpSolar’s Module Manufacturing Innovation Award.
We spend a lot of time and take a lot of pride in choosing only what we believe to be the best quality components throughout our systems. This includes components beyond just the solar panels and inverters, like the frame, generation meters, isolators, cable, connectors, etc.
Warranties
Warranties are not just about the number of years you are covered for, although that is important. Some product warranties will only be valid if the company is still around! A large number of solar manufacturers have unfortunately been going out of business recently. That is why we only use panels from companies that have strong balance sheets, have a range of business interests, and will be able to deal with any warranty issues in years to come.
Also, in our experience repairing other installers’ systems, if the manufacturer does not have a support team in the UK, even if a product is within its warranty period, you may still not manage to have the claim dealt with!
CRL Energy Ltd offers a minimum 10-year product warranty on all components – and many for up to 20 years. We also offer an insurance-backed 10-year workmanship warranty.
Technical Support
We are realistic…unfortunately, sometimes things fail. Through our careful design, component choice, and high-quality installation, we minimize this possibility. But, over time, even the best systems can encounter issues. When this happens, whether the system is in or out of the warranty period, you want to know that there is an experienced, specialized technical support team based in the UK that can help solve the problem immediately. This means a couple of main things:
- If CRL Energy Ltd can’t mend it straight away, e.g., if it is a complex electronics fault, there are technicians available who can fix the system ASAP.
- If the system can’t be repaired and a new unit is required, there are units (or equivalent units) available in the UK for immediate dispatch, minimizing your downtime.
We’ve tried dealing with warranty issues with technical teams based abroad before, and it’s not much fun, nor is it very quick.
That’s why all the manufacturers that supply CRL Energy Ltd have made long-term commitments to the UK market and have established technical teams that can support us if required.
Installation Workmanship
This is the last piece of the puzzle. The level of actual installation workmanship must be top-notch. And thankfully, this is something we are obsessive about! Our installers are all extremely experienced roofers, electricians, and solar panel installers who have been working in the industry for many years. They have hundreds of installations under their belt, and they take great pride in their work. Panels are installed with real care and precision, and the electrics are done in the most unobtrusive, neat, and tidy way possible. This is something we take great pride in.
As an indication of the confidence we have in our installation quality, we offer a 10-year workmanship warranty, much longer than many of our competitors.
At CRL Energy Ltd, we take quality and attention to detail seriously. From our design team to our surveyors, our experienced installers, and beyond, we are committed to providing exceptional quality. When you choose CRL Energy Ltd for your solar panel installation, you can be assured that we incorporate the highest industry standards and utilize cutting-edge technology to deliver outstanding results.
In addition to our dedication to quality, we understand the importance of performance and reliability. Here’s how we ensure top-notch solar installations:
- Expert Design: Our team of experts meticulously designs each solar panel system, taking into account your specific property requirements and energy needs. We optimize the system design for maximum efficiency and performance.
- Premium Components: We only work with reputable suppliers and use high-quality solar panels, inverters, and other system components. Our products are built to last, ensuring long-term performance and durability.
- Robust Warranties: We provide comprehensive product warranties to give you peace of mind. Our warranties cover the solar panels and other components, protecting your investment for years to come.
- Reliable Technical Support: In the rare event that you encounter any issues with your solar panel system, our dedicated technical support team is readily available to provide prompt assistance and resolve any concerns.
- Skilled Installation: Our experienced installers are trained professionals who have extensive knowledge and expertise in solar panel installations. They adhere to industry best practices, ensuring precise and efficient installations.
At CRL Energy Ltd, we are passionate about solar energy and its potential to transform how we power our homes and businesses. With our commitment to quality, you can trust us to deliver a solar panel system that meets your energy goals and provides long-lasting value.
Contact us today at info@crlenergy.co.uk to take the first step toward a high-quality solar panel installation that maximises performance and saves you money in the long run.
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