Getting Started with Solar Installation
Where should my panels face for optimal efficiency?
For the best performance, our design consultants will create a tailored solar panel layout based on your roof’s specific layout and orientation. Solar systems can be installed on roofs facing north, east, or west, and with our advanced solar inverters, we can distribute panels across multiple roof areas for maximum efficiency.
What size solar system do I need?
The ideal solar system size depends on your household or business energy consumption. We recommend speaking to one of our solar experts, who can recommend the most suitable system. Alternatively, you can use our simple solar energy calculator to get an estimate. Key factors to consider include:
- Your current electricity consumption
- Your future energy needs
- The available space on your roof for panels
Do I need planning approval?
In most cases, planning approval is not required. However, if you’re part of a strata agreement, you may need to seek approval from the body corporate before installing solar panels.
What Happens After You Sign Up for Solar Installation?
What is required of me once I enroll?
Once you sign up with Electralink, you can relax and leave the rest to us! We take care of all the necessary paperwork to make your experience as hassle-free as possible.
We will handle the application for the Synergy renewable energy buyback scheme and take care of all required Western Power applications, including facilitating the meter change. Once Western Power approves everything, one of our team members will contact you to schedule the installation, so you won’t have to worry about a thing!
Can a solar PV system be used alongside my solar hot water system?
No, a solar PV system works independently from a solar hot water system. Solar panels generate electricity to power electrical devices, while a solar hot water system generates heat for water usage. These two systems do not interact with each other.
How Solar Installation Works: What to Expect
Will a qualified electrician install my solar system?
Yes, all of our solar installers are fully licensed electricians and accredited by the Clean Energy Council of Australia. They are qualified to design and install your solar system to the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
The Solar Installation Process: What Happens at Each Stage
Can a solar panel system store the electricity it generates for later use?
Yes, when paired with our battery storage systems, your solar panel system can store excess electricity generated during the day. This stored energy is then available for use during the night or when your electricity consumption exceeds what the solar system is producing.
What occurs with my solar system during the night?
Solar panels only generate electricity when exposed to UV light. Once night falls, electricity production stops. During these hours, you’ll draw power from the electrical grid. However, if you have our battery system installed, you can draw electricity from the stored energy in your batteries instead.
What happens in the event of a power blackout?
During a power blackout, your solar PV system will stop producing electricity as a safety measure to protect workers on the grid. Once the power is restored, your system will resume electricity production (you may need to reset the circuit breaker).
What occurs on cloudy days?
While cloud cover can reduce solar panel efficiency, our high-quality Tier 1 solar modules are designed to perform well even in low light conditions. If heavy cloud cover limits energy production, you will draw power from the electrical grid to meet your needs.
Why does my solar inverter cease operation at night?
As the sun sets and UV light decreases, solar panels can no longer generate electricity for the inverter to convert. As a result, the solar inverter automatically shuts down. It will resume operation when UV light returns in the morning.
Solar System Maintenance: What You Need to Know
Is maintenance required for the solar system?
Solar systems are designed to be nearly maintenance-free. In most cases, periodic cleaning, such as hosing down the solar panels to remove dirt, is all that’s needed. Since our panels are typically installed at a tilt, they are self-cleaning during rainfall, ensuring minimal upkeep.