What you need to know before switching to solar
12th Jan '18 • By Kaylyn Jeffrey
If you've ever wanted to change to solar power, now is the time to do it. Make your home greener and more cost-effective this summer.
Solar power involves the process of using direct sunlight and turning it into electricity. This process helps generate pure green, affordable energy for you and your family.
To receive solar power electricity, the home must have a solar photovoltaic system on the roof. These are commonly referred to as the “solar panels” installed on the roof of your home.
There are 4 factors for you to consider prior to the installation of solar electricity:
⦁ Your usual energy utilization
⦁ Usage variations
⦁ The sizing of the solar power you wish to install
⦁ Where your home is situated
Once these factors are taken into account and examined by an expert in the area of solar, you can make an informed decision on whether or not solar power is the right decision for your home.
The benefits of solar power
The installation of solar panels to your home will not only benefit you and your family, but the environment as well. By choosing a solar power system as the household’s main way to receive electricity, you are making your home more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
In comparison to traditional electricity generated by coal and natural gas, going solar means that you will be combating greenhouse gas and reducing reliance on fossil fuel through a natural way of electricity production.
Save more with solar panels, as they produce no pollution and supply most of your household’s energy consumption for a fraction of the cost.
Buying a home with solar, or perhaps deciding to install a solar system, ultimately means you have made the decision to lower your electricity bill whilst improving your homes ability to produce green electricity. A solar system efficiently reaps the benefits of the sun that would be shining on your roof surface regardless.
As an added bonus, installing a solar system increases a home's attractiveness on the market and raises the market value.
The costs of solar power
Traditional electricity companies are known for their fluctuating electricity prices. With a renewable energy, prices are based on environmental benefits and hold stable electricity costs. Adversely, electricity produced by coal and fossil fuels increase depending on the electrical company you are with.
On average, the installation of a system will cost between $5,000 and $15,000. The great news with solar panels is that once installed, they are durable and last. Most of the large manufacturing brands even come with a 25 year warranty. They don’t require much maintenance or cleaning and have virtually zero recurring costs.
Contributing factors to solar costs are:
⦁ Size and type of solar panels
⦁ Inverters
⦁ Installation costs
Proper care for your solar panels
Over time, solar panels can build up with dirt and dust affecting their efficiency and causing them to generate at maximum output. Regular cleaning and maintenance by a professional will help keep your panels running smoothly.
Many people think that rain is enough to keep panels clean, but this is not the case. Rain alone cannot remove tough stains like bird or bat droppings! For this reason, it is important to wash solar panels once every two to three years by a trained professional. It is not recommended to perform your own maintenance on the solar panels as it is quite dangerous due to the location of the panels. Unless you have the required skills, the cleaning process should be left to the experts with the correct equipment.
If you’re not sure what size solar system will best suit your needs, gather advice from professional solar installers on Service.com.au. They can also give you an accurate and up-to-date quote on how much a system will cost!