FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS

Can you install a system for me?
The short answer is no. We supply parts and systems only. We’re not PV installers. We do offer a service whereby we can pre-build all the main components of a kit (inverter, charge controller, DC distribution, etc onto a board for you).

Can I install this myself?
We can’t answer that for you, and it depends on your level of experience, confidence and the system you are putting in. If you’ve never done anything like this before, then a small system for a shed is probably within most people’s ability. You are likely to need a qualified electrician where AC voltage is concerned.  Victron produce a very good, detailed book about DC systems called Wiring Ulimited that you can download here. We usually include a hard copy with most kits.

What system do I need?
First, work out what you need to run. Make a list of everything, how much power it uses in Watts (usually on a label somewhere, or you can find generic values for typical modern appliances online). Next estimate how long each day you will use each item for.  Don’t forget small things like chargers that are on all the time but only use small amounts of power – it all adds up.
Now multiply the amount of power it all uses in Watts, by the total amount of time it will be on each day to find a value in Watt Hours. This will help work out what size batteries you may need.
Also work out what the maximum load is going to be that you need to run at any one time. This will help determine what size of inverter you will need.

How much will it cost?
If you’ve done the above, take a look at the kits we have on the website to get an idea of likely cost.

What about VAT rates? Is it it 5% or 20%
The current rules are that unless equipment makes up 60% or less of an installation – ie that the installation itself is 40% of the cost; VAT is chargeable at 20%. The 5% rate only applies if you are having the equipment installed by the supplier. We only supply.

Can I customise kits?
Yes, generally what we show on the site is a starting point and most systems end up being slightly different.

Why is shipping / postage for PV panels and rails so expensive?
Because they have to be shipped flat, on a pallet to keep them from breaking – they all have glass fronts. Also they are bigger than a single pallet so we are charged for a double pallet size. PV mounting rails are 3 metres long and so an awkward size, so the carriers charge extra for those too.

Can I collect my panels / kit?
Yes but only by arrangement, and please make sure that you’ve checked the panel sizes before you come here. More than one person has discovered they can’t actually fit a 340w+ panel in the back of their car. They are all nearly 2m x 1m. We generally put the sizes on the panel description on the site.

How long will it take to get my order?
Generally we ship solar panels separately, so you should receive them within 5 working days. Because the Victron range is so huge, we tend to only stock consumables (fuses, cable etc) and bigger items come to us from Victron, so allow up to 2 weeks. If it is going to take longer we will let you know at the time of your order.

What are your payment terms / can I collect and pay cash?
Our terms are payment in full at the time of order, either by card on the website or by transfer. The only exception is if your order has backorder items that don’t have a definite arrival date – typically Pylontech batteries, where delivery times to us have been slow.

What about warranties?
Most Victron equipment has a 5 year warranty, which can be extended to 10 years – cost for the extended warranty is typically 10% of the price of the item. Victron batteries come with a Li-ion batteries: 3 year limited warranty
Other batteries: 2 year limited warranty
All other products: 5 year limited warranty
All other products: 10% surcharge on net price for 5 year warranty extension (10 year warranty)
Warranty extensions need to be applied for ultimately one year before expiration of the original term

The best way to contact us is by email, so that we’ve a record of your questions and can refer back to them. Include a phone number if you want us to get back to you by phone. 

Online orders are dealt with daily, and we monitor email every day. We spend a lot of time putting systems together etc so if you need to speak to someone, Steve can be contacted during the following hours:

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday – 10am – 5pm

Friday – 10am – 1pm

If there’s no answer then leave a message and we’ll get back to you.