Cheaper is Not Always Better

The cheapest deal is very rarely the best deal. So why do we get so easily enticed by unbelievably cheap solar deals that appear so totally believable?

If you want the cheapest solar systems on the market, just google “cheap solar”. There will be numerous cheap deals. There was just one recently offering a 5kW system for $4,000. But a quality 5kW installation will cost approximately $6,000 - $9,000.

While the system starts off cheaper than any other offer on the market, the long term consequences of buying a cheap system generally end up being more expensive. So what is the catch? How do these companies sell systems at such a low price? 

Here are some selling tactics we have seen: 

1. Bait and Switch. They use quality components as the bait, advertising genuine Tier 1 panels and a top end inverter.

They put in their conditions of sale that they reserve the right to swap out the inverter and panels for ‘equivalents’.

Then, they install a really cheap inverter and panels instead; or they don’t advertise the brand of panels and inverter, just a really low price.

When the customer makes an enquiry, they upsell them to better hardware, with the customer paying much, much more than the originally advertised price. 

2. Cutting Corners on the Install.

• They 'claim' their panels are Tier 1. Cheap panels do not last in the Australian sun. Good panels should last 30 years plus. These low end panels will start failing and it can be really hard to get a low cost solar company to honour the panel warranty.
• They use a cheap inverter and claim it is the best on the market. A really cheap inverter will be unlikely to last 3 years.
• They often offer fast install which means not tucking away or securing flying leads; short cuts on running cables through roof and short cuts on inverter location. Using cheap cabling, mounting brackets and rails also contribute to the downfall of your solar system.  

If you want a system that is well designed for your roof and your consumption patterns:

• One that is genuinely designed with a view to adding batteries in the future;
• One that uses good quality panels, inverters, racking, wires and isolators;
• One that is installed by a trained electrician who is paid a fair wage and is given the time to do things properly;
• One that will make you happy for decades to come and give you a well optimised return on your investment; and
• One that has after sale service and support to ensure your system is well looked after if there is an issue. 

Then please be cautious of the ‘too good to be true’ offers. If you are considering installing solar for your home or business, Solar Australia can help. We have been around for over 10 years, use high quality components and we tailor your solar system specifically to home or business.

Our team of designers and engineers are here to ensure you get the best from your solar system. Call us today on 1300 000 76527 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.