Seeing the rising electricity consumption in Australia, it’s no surprise that residential solar systems have gained popularity, and more people are installing it in their homes. Solar panels are an efficient way to harness solar energy and use it to generate electricity for your home. Solar panels can cut your electric bill by up to 75%.
With so many options in solar panels available these days, you can find a perfect fit for your home quickly. However, preparing your home for installation is essential before buying any solar panels. Here are the necessary steps you should take before installing solar panels.
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6 tips for optimising your home for solar panel installation
Below are six significant tips that can help you optimise your home for solar panel installation.
#1. Ensure the right direction of your roof
Ensure your roof is facing the right direction if you plan to install solar panels! The direction your roof faces can significantly impact how much power your solar panels produce. North-facing roofs receive more sunlight than those facing the north. Talk with your builder to ensure your roof is facing the right direction and getting maximum sunlight.
Other things to note:
Place your satellite dishes or antennas on the opposite side and away from the solar panels. If your roof is old, repair the weak areas and ensure it is strong enough for mounting the solar panels.
#2. Check Rebates and incentives offered by the government
The Australian government offers rebates and incentives to homeowners who install solar panels. They also offer rebates for businesses that want to switch from traditional energy sources to solar power.
Research and collect information on the applicable rebates in your area. Speak to a solar company for more details.
#3. Check for shading areas on your roof & property
One of the key factors to consider for solar panel installation is shading. Trees can block sunlight from reaching solar panels, which reduces their efficiency. Solar panels need direct sunlight to work effectively, so it’s essential to check that there are no trees or large shrubs that could cause shading problems. If you have big trees on your property, you may need to have them trimmed or relocated to ensure that your solar panels receive the maximum sunlight possible.
#4. Location for your solar inverter
It’s important to place the inverter where it will have easy access to sunlight and will not be exposed to weather extremes. You also need to ensure enough space around the inverter for air circulation so that it doesn’t overheat. Also, ask your contractor to place the switchboard and meter board near the place of the solar inverter to minimise your voltage rise and costs.
#5. Work out your energy requirements
If you’re considering installing solar panels, one of the first things you should do is calculate your current electricity consumption. Then based on your lifestyle plans, estimate your future energy consumption.
Ask a solar panel company about the right solar panel size suitable for your estimated energy usage. Also, determine if you need a solar panel with a battery pack or if only solar panels will be sufficient.
#6. Installation of solar pre-wiring
One of the most important things you should do is pre-wire your home if you want to install a solar system in the future. It will help you hide the wiring cables within the walls of your home and make them look more aesthetic. Pre-wiring will also make the solar system installation quick and easy. Here’s how to do it:
- Ask your local building department to know if there are specific requirements for pre-wiring a solar system in your area.
- Get a solar company to do the cabling from the main service panel (breaker box) to where you plan to install the inverter. The inverter will convert the DC power from the solar panels into AC power that can be used in your home.
Conclusion
Get a consultation from a solar company on preparing your home for residential solar system installation, who will give you personalised guidance. Hiring a professional solar panel contractor will ensure that your solar panels are installed correctly and safely. Professional contractors have years of experience installing different solar panels so they can do it quickly and efficiently. They will also ensure that all the wiring is safe and does not cause any damage to your home or property.