Understanding Solar Power Systems

Posted on 18 December 2015

Understanding Solar Power Systems

When it comes to choosing the right solar power system for your home or business, there are many factors to consider, and there are A LOT of options out there.

  • Which company do you choose to install your system?
  • Which brand is best?
  • What sized system do you choose?

In this article weve outlined all the important information you need to help select the right solar system for your needs.

Choosing the right sized system:

There are many factors that determine the size of your system. These range from the size of your roof and the direction of your home or office, through to your current power usage and also your budget.

The best way to ensure you get the maximum benefit from your system is to speak to a solar consultant who can help you plan the perfect system for your needs.

As a rough guide, the typical solar power systems outputs:

  • Standard home systems range from: 1.5kw 7kw
  • Standard commercial systems range from: 10kw-40kw

Choosing the right products:

A typical solar panel system consists of a number of solar panels that convert the suns rays into electricity and send the DC power through an inverter, converting the power to AC which is the type used in your house as usable power.

These panels can be either in one section of your roof or can be split across multiple areas (for instance – north facing and west facing areas) with a split array.

Many inverters have a monitoring system that allow you to view and monitor the performance of your system the usage and power generated and the money saved by using your system.

Choosing the right solar power system installer:

Many electricians can now be licensed to install solar. We recommend using an accredited installer that specialises in solar installation. You wouldnt go to a GP about a specialist medical condition, so why use a general electrician the same for your solar power?

All of our systems are installed by highly qualified and accredited Clean Energy Council electricians, ensuring quality every step of the way.

Connection to The Grid

Once your solar power system has been installed, it is fed into the grid by qualified solar technicians.

The Grid are the physical poles and wires that traditionally feed power to a home or building. You will need to have a bi-directional meter installed with your system to use solar power and you can use this smart meter to measure how much energy you have used and what excess has been put back into the grid.

Solar panel system maintenance

There are a few ways to ensure your system functions at its maximum capacity for as long as possible. One is to make sure you know how to read and regularly check your inverter.

This will show you how your system is performing and whether or not it is functioning at peak capacity. Of course many companies also offer post installation monitoring to check your system, which saves you the trouble.

We recommend checking your inverter every 2-3 weeks to ensure that you are making the most of your solar system. If you notice an error message or a fault light you should contact your installer as soon as possible.

Important facts

Lastly there are some important facts you must know about your solar panel system.

Make sure you are aware of:

  • Understanding the warranty of your panels and inverter
  • Ensuring you have a Certificate of Compliance
  • Knowing if you are eligible for rebates such as Small-scale Technology Certificates
  • (STCs) which can reduce your upfront cost of installing solar.
  • Knowing the peak capacity of your solar system and knowing how to read your inverter.

Conclusion

As you know, the market is flooded with solar companies, special deals and the best systems.

Please consider all the important facts before purchasing so you get the system thats right for you. And of course if you need any help along the way, Solar Power Direct is here to answer your questions. Simply request a call and well be in touch right away to help you.

Solar Power Direct is a proud member of the Smart Energy Council, working towards a safe climate and a strong renewable economy.