What you need to know about plug-in solar panels
1. Not every home is currently suitable for plug-in solar
Given unresolved concerns about the potential impact of plug-in solar panels on certain RCDs, we recommend households have at least a Type A bidirectional RCD protecting circuits intended for use with plug-in solar panels. Until these concerns are addressed, homes with Type AC RCDs should not use plug-in solar systems without first upgrading to a minimum Type A bidirectional RCD on those circuits.
2. Have your electrics checked before you buy
Don't assume 'plug-in' means it's suitable for every home. Electrical Safety First recommends that households have their electrical installation assessed by a competent electrician registered with a competent persons scheme before purchasing or using a plug-in solar system, particularly in older properties or where the condition of the electrical installation and type of protective devices is unknown.
3. Never connect plug-in solar through extension leads or adapters
Plug-in solar systems should not be connected via extension leads, cable reels, multiway adaptors, travel adaptors or plug-in RCD adaptors. These accessories can overheat, become overloaded and create additional safety risks.
4. Buy from reputable retailers and avoid third-party sellers via online marketplaces
Given the size of these devices, it is likely many shoppers will seek to purchase them online. We urge shoppers to stick to reputable high street retailers and their online websites to ensure the device they are buying is safe and meets the new interim product specification. We advise households to avoid buying these devices from third-party sellers on online marketplaces, no matter how appealing this may be, as these platforms are currently not legally responsible for the safety of goods sold via their sites, exposing people to substandard versions that may put you and your home at risk.
5. One home, one device
Only one plug-in solar panel system is permitted per household. Installing multiple units could reduce the effectiveness of protective devices.
Selected FAQs
If you’re unsure about an appliance or product, you’re not alone. These FAQs bring together expert advice and answers to the questions people ask us most, so you can feel more confident at home.
It is recommended that periodic inspection and testing is carried out at the following times:
- for tenanted properties, every 5 years or at each change of occupancy, whichever is sooner
- at least every 10 years for an owner-occupied home
- at least every 5 years for a business
The Landlords and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords of properties with short leases to keep the electrical wiring in repair and in proper working order. We recommend landlords arrange for periodic inspection and testing to be carried out by a registered electrician at the relevant intervals shown above.
Periodic inspection and testing of the electrics should be carried out more frequently on the places and premises listed here:
- 3 years for a caravan
- 1 year for a swimming pool
Periodic inspection and testing should be carried out only by electrically competent persons, such as registered electricians.
First, you need to find out whether the electrician you used is actually registered. To do this, contact the operator of the scheme they have claimed to be part of, and they will tell you whether this is the case. If they are registered, the scheme operator can guide you through their complaints procedure.
If you find out the electrician misled you and is not registered, you should report this to your local Trading Standards Department as they are breaking the law. We would also recommend that you get an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carried out on your home; this will assess any work that has been undertaken and will act as sufficient documentation to certify that work. This needs to be carried out by a registered electrician and unfortunately will be an added cost for you.
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