Seven Things to Consider Before Installing Solar Panels at Home

Switching to solar is a smart move. It cuts your energy bills, reduces your reliance on the grid, and shrinks your carbon footprint. But before you go ahead, it’s worth taking a step back and thinking through a few key factors.

 

From roof orientation to battery storage, here’s what to weigh up before you invest – and how Plug me in can help you make the right choice.

 

1. How much energy do you use?

 

Your home, your habits, your future plans.

 

You should start with an understanding of how much electricity you currently use. Your solar system should match your needs, but here’s a smart thought: with Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments currently in place, some homeowners are choosing to oversize their system and sell the extra energy back to the grid. But that’s at today’s rates - no one can say what they’ll be next year.

 

Also, think long-term. If you’re planning to get an EV or heat pump, you’ll need more power in the future.

 

Plug me in tip: Check your last 12 months of bills or use your smart meter for an accurate picture of your energy use.

 

2. What’s your roof like?

 

South-facing roofs get the most sun, but east/west-facing ones can still perform brilliantly. At the end of the day, you can only work with what you’ve got.

 

We'll perform a free survey which includes precise pitch, shading, and orientation measurements to calculate your system’s performance. We’ll also look at:

 

• Pitch and shading (trees, chimneys, anything that casts a shadow)
• Age and condition (repairs might be needed first)
• Size (enough room for safe panel installation)

 

3. How long are you staying in your home?

 

Solar is a long-term investment. Most systems pay for themselves in 6-10 years, depending on your setup and usage.

 

If you’re moving anytime soon, it might not be the right time. But it could still add value and appeal – buyers are increasingly drawn to homes that are energy independent.

 

4. Do you want battery storage too?

 

Batteries let you store unused solar energy for when the sun goes down. That means you rely less on the grid and make bigger savings.

 

They're especially useful if:

 

• You're on a reduced rate overnight tariff (charge cheap, use during peak)
• You use most of your electricity in the evening
• You want backup during power cuts
• You're aiming for full energy independence

 

Our engineers will talk you through the options, including retrofit flexibility if you want to add a battery later.

 

5. What's your budget - and are there funding options?

 

Prices for solar have come down a lot in recent years, and a typical domestic solar system now starts from around £5,000. Add a battery and you’ll pay more, but you’ll also save a lot more.

 

Good to know:

 

• VAT on solar panels is currently 0% for most domestic installs
• You can also earn money back via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) by selling surplus energy back to the grid
• We'll help you find the right setup - one that suits your needs and budget

 

 

6. Who's installing it?

 

Installation quality matters, and poor workmanship costs more in the long run.

 

At Plug me in, all our engineers are trained in our own academy. We handle the whole journey, from survey to design, to installation and aftercare.

 

 

7. Can we access your roof easily?

 

It might sound obvious, but we need safe and straightforward access to get the job done quickly and cleanly. That means checking:

 

• Parking availability near your home (for scaffolding and delivery vehicles)
• Clear space around your house and garden
• No overgrown trees, loose tiles or fragile structures nearby

 

Don't worry if access is tricky - our survey team will find the smartest, safest way to work around you. But it's good to flag any potential issues early on.

 

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Are you ready to plug into solar?

 

Our smart solar experts are here to guide you every step of the way. From honest advice to hassle-free installation, we’ll help you find the right solution for your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.

 

Book your free home survey today – and power up your savings!