HCB Solar Reviews
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About
HCB Solar is family-operated and has been in business in the Newcastle area for the past 60 years. It now claims to be an expert in all areas of industrial, commercial and domestic electrical services and maintenance.
It is now an accredited designer and installer of solar power systems, as well as having installers accredited by the Clean Energy Council. The team provides a complete service from start to finish, as well as excellent customer relations.
Customers are promised a hassle-free experience when they receive their solar panels from HCB Solar and products are only sourced from trusted brands.
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HCB Solar Reviews (39)
Show Most Recent reviews from All time across Australia
Average Scores
4.5/5
Value for money
4.8/5
Quality of System
4.7/5
Installation
4.7/5
Customer Service
- 5 star 17
- 4 star 20
- 3 star 2
- 2 star 0
- 1 star 0
29 August 2023
04 July 2023
High Quality Service
Best response to voting and follow up on customer enquiries.Inverter rating: 4/5
22 December 2022
Great team
Salesman very good. Installers all polite friendly and tidy. Still waiting for transfer swichPanel rating: 5/5
Inverter rating: 5/5
15 December 2022
HCB
Our visit by Edmund [sales representative] set the tone for our dealings with HCB Solar ie professional, friendly, knowledgeable.Our system size, requirements and orientation of the 25 panels and pricing was ascertained after many questions and explanations which totally reassured us that we were with the right company.
The Support staff [a qualified electrician], Engineers and the excellent office staff all worked together to ensure our Sunpower Maxeon performance panels with Enphase Microinverters and software were installed on one day with minimal disruption and inconvenience.
We were without power for minutes not hours and the process was very smooth with all persons concerned being professional, friendly and happy to answer any and all queries.
From day 1 the installation has been collecting and converting solar energy from DC to AC and then to our homes myriad appliances etc and then off to the grid.
This also occcurs on days with 100% cloud cover and even when raining, but obviously the harvesting is less. Sunny day with occasional clouds? Awesome output by the Enphase microinverters.
A special thank you to the Installers who did a brilliant job and are happy and able to explain what the process entails.
Thank you all.
Panel rating: 5/5
Inverter rating: 5/5
28 January 2022
Great experience all round
Hugh designed a great system for us and Cameron and his team did a great install. There was an issue with the software setup and Cameron returned and took care of it - which is all you can ask for! Hugh and Cameron were always very approachable and will be the first call when I decide to add a battery to my system. Oh, I am saving a bomb in electricity charges too!Panel rating: 5/5
Inverter rating: 5/5
02 July 2021
Original Review on 22-10-2020:
Excellent from beginning to end
The quote process was very good, the sales person, Edmond, was happy to give me every combination of quote I asked for. He was also very happy to explain the differences and benefits of each systemInstallation was excellent. Three efficient installers arrived at 7.30 and were finished by 3 pm. I had also asked them to change something in the brief and they happily accommodated me - even though it meant more work for them. Jarred was especially helpful.
Grid installation is being organised by them.
8 months later we asked Yvonne: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
The system is still great, couldn’t be happier. HCB are also terrific at after sales service - I had a unexplained wet patch in my ceiling this morning. I rang HCB this morning to talk to them about the possibility it was the installation that caused the leak and by early afternoon they sent someone to check it out. Inspected inside roof cavity and on the roof and found it to be another unrelated problem. Extremely happy with their service.13 May 2021
A Great Investment
Beau was excellent, no pressure, knew the info that I wanted, lovely manner and knows his apples. It also helped that he has solar unit and could speak from experience. His quote wasn't the cheapest one we had but it was the best system and I always say you only get what you pay for. The installation was professional, thorough and they left the place as clean and tidy as they found it. They were punctual, hardly stopped all day, and it was a hot day. Lovely mannered. When everything was finished, the system was up and working and took me through everything I had to know before they left. HIGHLY recommended. Great product and staff which also includes the office staff as wellPanel rating: 5/5
Inverter rating: 5/5
07 May 2021
Experienced Company
HCB Solar is a very experienced and professional company. The sales/quoting process was easy. The salesperson came to take photos before the installation and discussed positioning etc. which was helpful.The installation went seamlessly, the inverter app was installed without any trouble and the system is now working very well.
They organised all the paperwork with the energy company.
It was important to me to have a local company who has been around for many years and are readily available for held if needed.
Panel rating: 5/5
Inverter rating: 5/5
06 May 2021
Original Review on 04-09-2020:
Happy Customer
Solar company visited site, fully explained solar operation, installaton method and options available. Installation team was punctual, polite and professional. HCB Solar organised grid connection and service provider connection. Although slightly more expensive I believe the system offered was the best option for us. The staff and customer service was a big consideration also.8 months later we asked David: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
Yes.21 December 2020
Great Installation of a quality product
Quoting process was seamless even though it was performed over the internet and phone.The installation progress well with the installers being both friendly efficient. They were punctual and tidied up everything after the process on each day.
The customer service worked well and they organised the grid connection and Net Metering after the installation.
Inverter rating: 5/5
11 December 2020
If you want the best of everything to do with Solar HCB can't be beat
The most important factor in getting solar installed is the quality of the retailer/installer, followed by the components to be used. Also important is whether you want to make money through feed in tariffs (FiT) or save money by offsetting your usage.Initially contacted HCB as part of the NSW Government Empowering Homes Program and they were impressive from the start. I opted not to go with the interest free loan to get a battery system as the savings didn’t add up for me – batteries would have to be a lot cheaper for the system to pay for itself (through offsetting my usage).
Having decided against the battery system I looked at other solar installers through getting quotes from solar quote sites.
I undertook a massive amount of research into each company that sent me quotes through looking at how long the company has been in existence, examining reviews on the internet and looking at the information in their ASIC listings. I wanted to avoid companies that had been in existence for only a short time or where there was a lot activity in their ASIC profile (change of directors etc.). If they hadn’t been around for years how confident would you be that they would be around for years to come? I can’t imagine anything worse than spending thousands of dollars only to find that is something goes wrong there is no one there to help me. I didn’t want what is called in the industry an Orphaned System.
I undertook research into the panels and inverters and wanted confidence that the makers of the components would be around for years to come and had a presence in Australia – can you imagine the hassle if you had to deal with a company that isn’t located in Australia, especially if your installer has ceased to exist i.e. you had an Orphaned System.
I knew nothing about Solar before starting my Solar Journey and as I researched something and gained a new piece of knowledge the staff at HCB were on hand to clarify and when needed explain it to me.
The sales person I dealt with was Edmund and he must have answered more than 100 questions from me. He was always responsive and professional as well as being flexible in providing me information so that I could make the decision that was right for me. For example I understand that a lot of people just want to produce energy and sell a lot back to the grid maximizing their FIT. Edmund understood my own situation in so far as I wanted to maximize my production to offset as much of my usage as possible. So whilst my total annual solar production may be a little less, my savings are greater – instead of getting say 10 cents for each kWh exported I am saving 28 cents for each kWh I am not importing from the grid.
Edmund was exceptional and is worth more money!!
I also had dealing with the Accounts staff, Jenny and Tech staff Yang both of whom were approachable, quick to answer my questions and helped make the whole process as easy as possible.
I also asked the manufacturer of my panels some questions and yet again another pleasing experience with LG answering my questions quickly and professionally. They even followed up asking how my install was going.
HCB contracted out the installation to Walker Brothers Electrical, a multi-generational family based company who were absolutely marvelous in implanting the design work undertaken by HCB.
If you choose HCB you can be sure that this family owned company, into its fourth generation of Electricians will listen to your needs, suggest excellent and well supported products, and use top notch installers.
I am exceptionally happy with the products supplied – LG Panels and Solaredge inverter.
Very highly recommended – and remember if you pay peanuts you get monkeys – go for a good company with a great name that uses only high quality products and top notch installers.
Panel rating: 5/5
06 April 2020
Product review
The staff at hcb solar cardiff in the office were really great,from getting a person to look at the old system and getting a quote. The installation was just great on time and a fantastic job. The experience with HCB was excellent.30 December 2019
Complete good system
Good except for the mess around due to the immersion controller15 December 2019
So far so good
So far the service has been good, however cannot comment on the quality of the system as it has yet to be installed04 November 2019
Original Review on 08-03-2019:
This is a family business and one of the family came to our home and gave us a very thorough walkthrough of what we would be purchasing and the whole install and follow up process. He also explained why my original selections would not be the perfect choice for our site and requirements. The quote was done there and then and sent by email to my computer while he was there. The installers, including a solar qualified electrician did a fabulous job and at the end they explained what they had done (exactly as per the quote) and how the whole system worked and what to expect in all circumstances including power failure. The system came with a wifi monitoring system to allow me to check how it was working and how much I was using and exporting to the grid. Fantastic!!!!8 months later we asked Grahame: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
Yes.......!25 September 2019
A professional installation of a high quality system.
Everything about our installation was uncomplicated and done with a high level of professionalism. During the quoting process there was always someone available to answer all my questions without unnecessary jargon. The company only deals in the best quality panels and inverters with the longest warranties currently available. Our system was accurately sized for our needs and has exceeded power output forecasts since installation 2 months ago. Installation was done in a day while we were at work. It was a very tidy job and the panels have been positioned to take best advantage of the available solar. They have not shifted despite wind gusts of 110km/h during a recent storm.The phone app provides clear real time data of home energy use and panel output to allow home appliances to be timed to maximise self consumption. The inverter is battery ready.
HCB has rapidly helped sort out minor post install issues with out energy provider.
Overall I cannot believe how easy it all went and how much clean energy we are now consuming (previously 17kWh/d to 5kWh/d with 30kWh/d to grid).
Panel rating: 5/5
Inverter rating: 5/5
20 July 2019
Great installer and instillation
Sales rep was punctual and quick with quoteInstallation team were punctual, professional and left no mess behind . Customer service team always polite and very helpful . Would recommend HCB solar anytime
07 July 2019
The other company I seriously considered was MJJ Solar. Brett from MJJ was excellent and in the end it was a tough decision to choose one over the other.
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01 July 2019
20 March 2019
28 February 2019
As I spent 15 years working for Power Stations I have quite a good understanding of electricity generation and markets and the consultants are very knowledgeable and were able to answer my questions easily.
I wanted the LG panels because of the warranty on both the panels and performance. There was another very well known company who would not tell me who the manufacturer was, so no business for them.
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I wanted the LG panels because of the warranty on both the panels and performance. There was another very well known company who would not tell me who the manufacturer was, so no business for them.
14 February 2019
Have paid deposit and awaiting installation. Experience thus far has been very good with HCB.
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23 January 2019
I would not hesitate recommending this company. The quoting and installation process was efficient and professional. I was referred to HCB Solar from a friend who had previously researched solar panels and engaged HCB to install at his house. I too got several quotes and gathered information. The knowledge and the information that was given to me was fantastic. This was reassuring, as after all it was a big financial investment we were about to make. Whilst the system we chose was certainly not the cheapest, the quality and the performance and the warranty on the panels is outstanding. The last thing you want as a home owner is for something to go wrong or fail with a solar system. HCB was able to provide 25 years warranty. We also took into consideration that HCB is a local family orientation business, not a fly by night business jumping on the solar installation band wagon. So if we should have any concerns or questions we know that we contact this reputable company. Thank you to all the team at HCB Solar.
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01 January 2019
Original Review on 01-05-2018:
Our original supplier, Solar Australia, went into liquidation the day before we were scheduled to have the system installed. On the recommendation of the installer, we contacted HCB Solar who quoted us on the same system at a slightly higher but more realistic price which we accepted. The panels have only been installed a couple of days and our energy supplier has not yet been out to fix the meter so the system is not yet up and running and we are unable to give a qualitative analysis at this stage.The other suppliers proffered by Solar Quotes quoted on systems which were way away from what we wanted (and what we briefed them on).
8 months later we asked Fred: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
Reasonably well20 November 2018
The installation team went about their work quickly, quietly and efficiently. The follow up communication and system training was first rate.
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30 October 2018
I received excellent customer service from all the staff at HCB Solar. They all have excellent product knowledge and are highly experienced from the lovely ladies in the office to the salesmen and installers. Even after our system has been installed the after sales service has been above and beyond professional and excellent. I would highly recommend HCB solar to anyone looking for a high quality solar system that is backed by a well established local company with exceptional service.
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04 October 2018
27 July 2018
Original Review on 10-10-2017:
Decided to go for quality over price.LG panels (330w), Solar edge inverter, optimisers.
Increased panel to capture 5.9 kw.
10 months later we asked Seamus: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
Above.17 July 2018
28 June 2018
Original Review on 12-11-2017:
Overall very happy with system and installer.8 months later we asked Stephen and Linda: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
Winter performance has been below expectations but suspect that may have something to do with the angle of the panels. Because of a tile roof they could not be set to the optimun angle.
30 October 2017
I am an Electrical Engineer and am extremely happy with the quality of the install. Knowledge of installers and HCB personnel was good.
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02 September 2017
Our business engaged HCB Solar to install a 29kW ground mount array in the Hunter Valley. Prior to signing any contract we met with HCB to gauge their ability to install the job professionally and safely. We were not disappointed. Two engineers (electrical and mechanical) from our business were very impressed with the knowledge of the HCB staff. From sales, design and through to installation HCB knew their stuff.
Our ground mounted array is now generating more than expected and is saving us significant amounts on our substantial electrical bills.
I have no hesitation in recommending HCB Solar.
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Our ground mounted array is now generating more than expected and is saving us significant amounts on our substantial electrical bills.
I have no hesitation in recommending HCB Solar.
27 October 2015
Original Review on 24-02-2015:
I am university educated and have three trades, I research all my projects to a huge degree so I am fully aware of what I am talking about with companies. I received quotes from a number of solar companies and it was surprising how many were 'all talk', and didn't understand their products. Although I didn't go with Finns quotes, I did take full advantage of his forum. HCB solar are local to me and I did want to use a local company. I fully recommend HCB solar at Beresfield NSW (newcastle). Their prices were perfect but most importantly their tradesmen were professional, well manored and thorough in their workmanship. I get super annoyed at poor tradesmen but these guys well surpased my expectations. I fully recommend HCB solar.8 months later we asked Russell: "Are you happy with the performance of your system so far?"
Beyond expectations.03 November 2014
I would not hesitate to recommend HCB Solar to prospective buyers in the Newcastle / Hunter region. All their staff (sales, installers and admin) really know their stuff and go out of their way to make sure you're happy with the job. They are not the cheapest in the Newcastle area, but they only deal in higher quality product with a customer service focus.
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09 September 2011
I received really great advice and outstanding service. Would recommend HCB Solar to everyone.
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05 July 2010
Considerable confusion exists within the industry regarding due process. I have been advised today that the electricity supplier should approve any installation prior to any hardware installation taking place. In our case the supplier/installer originally placed an application for approval with an electricity supplier that does not service our location.
We are now faced with a 8 week delay to obtain approval for connection to the grid although all hardware other than metering is currently installed.
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We are now faced with a 8 week delay to obtain approval for connection to the grid although all hardware other than metering is currently installed.
05 July 2010
22 June 2010
Delay experienced for meters installation.
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16 June 2010
Professional and genuine
Very professional and genuine also very helpful with answering questions, also listened to our concerns and opinions. The installer was very professional on time and did a fantastic job, polite, cleaned up, and helped with setting up the app on our phones.