If you’ve been thinking about making the switch to solar – there’s no time like the present! However, it’s important to be well-informed before switching to solar. In this post we share tips to help you know what to look for when getting started on your solar journey.
The effectiveness of your solar system depends on many factors, including your installer. It’s important to be across them all before you jump into booking with an installation professional.
Your Home:
When deciding on solar energy, it’s vital to consider the design of your home and the effectiveness of your system. Look out for:
- Angles – depending on your location, north-facing solar panels will likely receive the most sun. If you have a flat roof, you may need to consider tilted frames in order to maximise sun exposure.
- Energy Usage – your specific usage will determine a lot about your system and design for solar panels. How much energy you use and when you use it will determine the size of your system.
Your System:
Solar systems can be tailored depending on your unique home and requirements. Consider:
- Budget – your location, energy use, roof access, material and design of home determine the cost of your system. It’s important to consider what you’re willing to (or able to) invest in the installation and maintenance of your panels.
- Type – there are many different kinds of solar systems. These include grid-connected, battery or stand-alone systems and each have their unique pros and cons. Your individual needs and wants will determine the one you go with.
Your Installer:
Before switching to solar, it’s important to find the right people for the job. Look out for:
- Clean Energy Council accreditation – this is an essential qualification for anyone planning to install a solar system (and we’re proud to be accredited!). The CEC ensures that your provider is trusted, proficient and works within best practice for the industry to meet customer expectations. Read more about it here.
- Quote Documentation – it should be clean, detailed and professional with details regarding system design, expected generation, warranty terms and an itemised list of costs.
- Warranty – your solar installation should always include a comprehensive warranty, usually between 20 and 25 years for the panels. Your installer should be transparent about their offering here!
- Referrals and Testimonials – researching your installer and reading about peoples’ experience with them is important. Talking to or hearing from previous customers is a great method of getting to know your service provider and get that peace of mind you need with an investment like this.
There are plenty of things to consider when it comes to solar installation, but a good service provider will be with you every step of the way to guide you on your switch to renewables.
Click here to find out more about solar energy and how we, as a Clean Energy Council accredited business, can help!
