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Solar Power
Why you should get solar ready for summer
Summer will be here before we know it. Here’s how to get solar ready for summer, so you can take advantage of the sunshine and reduce your energy bills.
In summer, when the sun is beating down and cooling costs creep up, many Australian households begin thinking about getting solar installed. However, this is when demand peaks and solar installation wait times are at their longest. So, to have your solar system up and running for summer, you’ll need to get in early.
Why you should get your home solar ready for summer
There’s more sunshine in summer
Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. With more sunlight hours in the day during summer, Australian solar generation output climbs from mid-August and peaks in December. By having your solar system up and running before summer, you can take maximum advantage of this extra sunlight.
Air conditioning and cooling costs spike in summer
The summer months see energy bills rise for many Australian homes as the hotter temperatures increase average air conditioner and cooling system use. While air conditioners are more energy efficient these days, running costs can still be expensive at around 36 to 70 cents an hour per room. Heating and cooling are the biggest energy users in the average Australian home, so running your air conditioner on solar power can significantly reduce your power costs.
Blackouts are more common in summer
Hotter temperatures and higher power demands put extra pressure on the power grid during summer, increasing the possibility of a blackout occurring. Most homes that experience a blackout (even those with solar photovoltaic panels) won’t be able to access electricity until the grid is restored.
Many home solar batteries now provide blackout protection: they store excess solar power generated throughout the day and allow access to that power at night or during blackouts.
Make the most of the summer sunshine with solar power. Image: Matt Harvey
How to get your home solar ready for summer
Book your solar consultation and installation early
By the time summer rolls around, many Australian households are lining up to install solar systems. As demand increases, so do wait times, and many miss out on getting their system installed before summer comes to an end. On the other hand, installing your solar system pre-summer means that you can beat the rush, enjoy quicker turnaround times and ensure your system is up and running by the start of summer.
Spring is a great time to consult a solar expert and organise the installation of your solar system.
Decide on the design of your solar system and what components to include
There are many options to choose from when it comes to solar systems. First, make sure you choose an accredited rooftop solar retailer and installer that is a New Energy Tech Approved Seller. A good solar provider should have good experience, reputation and longeivty in market.
Next, work with your solar installer to choose the best type of solar panels for your rooftop, and where on your rooftop they should ideally be installed. They will also help you decide on an inverter (the brains of the system) and whether you want to add on a solar battery to store excess power generated by your solar panels.
Finally, you can opt to install a heat pump hot water or an EV charger to complete your solar-powered home setup.
Investigate rebate and green loan options
Victoria's state government currently offers several solar rebates for home owner-occupiers through the Solar Homes Program. These include a rebate of up to $1,400 for solar panel (PV) systems. Rental and community housing properties are also eligible for rebates.
Green loans can help you transition to solar energy, thanks to lower interest rates than regular loans. Solar panels, solar batteries, electric vehicles (EVs), EV home chargers, and other energy-efficient products may all be covered.
Choose a CEC-accredited solar installer. Image: Matt Harvey
Keep existing solar panels clean and free from obstructions
Once your solar panels have been installed, there’s very little maintenance to worry about. Over the long term, it’s a good idea to do a yearly clean to keep your panels generating the maximum amount of energy. Even a small build up of debris can impact your solar panels’ output. Make sure there’s nothing obstructing your panels, such as leaves, dirt, bird droppings or tree branches - consider hiring a professional to carry out this task for you.
An expert service or maintenance check will also boost your panels’ efficiency and efficacy. A solar professional can check your panels for cracks, loose fittings, and dirt or dust lodged in hard-to-reach places.
