Hey eveyone,

 

So I typically DIY everything, from cars (think v10 conrods), to software etc. But alas, for warranty purposes I cannot DIY the inverter install

it seems the rates are around R10K for installation, is this correct for the pretoria area? Considering it includes the comb box, coc etc, it might not be expensive, but better to ask and be educated. 

20 minutes ago, Pho3niX90 said:

Considering it includes the comb box, coc etc

Average labor charge between 8k-12k depending on system size. What exactly is included in the 10k. Difficult to determine if 10k is within reason without knowing the etc? Solar mounting kit R800 per panel. How many panels and is it included in the 10k?

Edited October 31, 20232 yr by TaliaB

@Pho3niX90 Who advised you that you cannot do the installation yourself?

So far my knowledge stretches as long as the installation conforms to SANS 10142 then you can do the install yourself and get an electrician who has knowledge of solar installs and can issue a COC for the installation to issue a COC you are safe, have a look at  a couple of posts here on the forum where the users showcases the installation or installations that they have done to see what they have done and ask if you are unsure about anything.

If the quote or quotes that you received only stipulates installation of and a total ask them to break the quote down so that you can see what they are charging per line item.

 

9 hours ago, TaliaB said:

Average labor charge between 8k-12k depending on system size. What exactly is included in the 10k. Difficult to determine if 10k is within reason without knowing the etc? Solar mounting kit R800 per panel. How many panels and is it included in the 10k?

This is purely inverter only. It doesn't stipulate exactly what's included, but, I know coc is included

8 hours ago, GerhardK83 said:

@Pho3niX90 Who advised you that you cannot do the installation yourself?

So far my knowledge stretches as long as the installation conforms to SANS 10142 then you can do the install yourself and get an electrician who has knowledge of solar installs and can issue a COC for the installation to issue a COC you are safe, have a look at  a couple of posts here on the forum where the users showcases the installation or installations that they have done to see what they have done and ask if you are unsure about anything.

If the quote or quotes that you received only stipulates installation of and a total ask them to break the quote down so that you can see what they are charging per line item.

 

From the warranty it states that a "qualified" installer has to install it, providing drawings as well as a COC.but what you are saying makes perfect sense. 

16 minutes ago, Pho3niX90 said:

This is purely inverter only. It doesn't stipulate exactly what's included, but, I know coc is included

Just be carefull of fly by night installers. Already red flag is the lack of transparency as to what type and manufacturer of inverter, what battery chemistry, voltage , size. If it is purely a back up system can you later expand on the suggested system. As @GerhardK83 Suggested get a quote that states company name , registration number contact details and then ask for quotation that states all components including part numbers and manufacturer so there is a way for you to check if the component quoted are actually installed. Lastly ensure the company is registered to issue a coc.

I'm gona also throw something into the mix here. When I provide an estimate for an installation I also insist on doing a site visit. It provides me a means to see what sort of challenges a site will present & also allow me to familiarise myself as the installer with the needs of the client. 

So off the bat, slate roofs cost more in labour, for obvious reasons. They are labour intensive, involve extra pieces of roof tiles as well as Bitumen. Usually if a specialist roofer is called in it will cost an additional R6k odd for them to do what is required. We offer this in house as we have worked on many Slate roofs so we guarantee that the roof will be sealed as good as we found it before. I have a slate customer as far a field as Hilton on this forum where is rains a lot. His roof is still sealed post installation. 

A 2 storey home also costs more, simply because the labour takes longer & safety on this roof is paramount. Also some roofs allow us to work with Scissors lifts etc & this is also costed into the project. We have access heights up to 30m. 

Flat roofs as much as they are great to work on also require more extensive labour because the Block ballast that weighs 35kg each takes back breaking amounts of energy & a scissors lift to transport to the top. 

Roof safety is paramount for my team & I. I also don't install in a day because I enjoy the work to come out right. Done right the first time. This takes time & thought. We are not the 1 day Bakkie brigade. I'm sorry if you want a one day band then that's something you will find a plenty but the time & patience taken has usually paid off. I haven't had a customer not happy with our installation yet. The installation must be functional, look great & most importantly safe. 

So I don't think you can get a one size fits all. Another aspect I see sorely lacking in this installation business is competent User interface installers. Post installation on one of my sites I take ownership of Comms between Batteries & inverters etc. I support you with the equipment should anything go pop. Sunsynk, FreedomWon, Deye, ATESS it doesn't matter. I will not install a piece of equipment from a questionable source & I will act on your behalf to get the best solution & outcome. This is surely the role of an installer.