Are you looking to reduce your energy bills, do your part for the environment and take advantage of natural renewable energy sources? Solar Installation has become an increasingly popular choice among homeowners in the Northern Rivers area.

Before you take the leap, however, you'll need to find an electrician in Ballina with solar expertise who can support your mission and provide you with high-quality service that helps meet your goals.

Knowing how to choose the right solar expert doesn't need to be a challenge!

Understanding what factors to look out for when choosing a contractor gives you peace of mind that you have taken all necessary steps in ensuring your project is in reliable hands. It also helps you understand what's involved during the installation process (and beyond).

In this blog post, we'll introduce you to 10 important factors you should understand when it comes to choosing a reputable solar expert in the Northern Rivers.

What questions to ask before getting solar panels?

We’re sure you’ve got plenty of questions about solar in Ballina and the surrounding Northern Rivers, so we’ve noted down a few important ones you may like to consider asking your solar installers.

Questions to ask about the solar panels

1) What brands of solar panels do you use?

Beware that quality, effectiveness, and longevity can differ considerably between brands and models of solar panels. Do your due diligence and look for high-quality solar panels, built for even the harshest environments, that are crafted to last.

2) What maintenance is required for a certain system?

Most solar systems are low maintenance, but it pays to get a clear idea of any kind of maintenance that may be required in the future.

Maintenance generally includes making sure panels and brackets are clean, secure, and free from debris and corrosion.

3) Is there the potential to add to this system in the future?

There may be a number of suitable solutions should you wish to expand your system in the future. Whether you add more solar panels or instead enhance the system with microinverters, it’s a good discussion to have with your solar installer.

4) How long can we expect the solar panels and the entire system to last?

High-quality and reputable solar panels should last 25 years.

During this period, the panels’ performance will decrease as they get older.

Most solar panels our electricians in Byron Bay offer are supplied with a 25-year performance warranty. It is recommended that solar panels are cleaned and inspected yearly by a suitably qualified professional.

This way, they will continue to perform to their best and any repairs that need to be made can be completed.

The other major component in a solar system is the inverter. Depending on where it has been installed, you can expect a reputable solar inverter to last for 10 to 15 years. Typically, Inverters are supplied with a 10-year warranty.

Questions to ask about the batteries

5) What brands of batteries do you use?

Ecosparx offers a few different brands and types of batteries. 

• SUNGROW DC coupled batteries with a Sungrow Hybrid Inverter is our most common and entry-level battery system we offer which also offers the function of backup power. (10-year warranty)

• Red-back Technologies battery systems are our other option for batteries. With solutions for many different battery requirements. (10-year warranty)

6) How many years can I expect this battery to last?

Battery technology is constantly evolving and getting better. The current batteries on offer can have a life expectancy anywhere from 5 to 15 years.

Questions to ask about the savings

7) How do we track energy production?

Energy production can be tracked with an inverter-specific smart meter.

This will monitor home energy usage, solar production, and typically relay the data to a user-friendly cloud-based app or website.

 8) What is the estimated period for a return on our investment (ROI)?

This will vary based on system size and location. The average family home can expect to reach payback in anywhere from 3-6 years.

Questions to ask about the solar installation company

When it comes to choosing solar in Byron Bay or anywhere else across the Northern Rivers, you want to ensure you choose an educated and experienced team who can confidently answer all your questions.

9) Are your products and services in line with Government requirements for rebates?

One of the biggest pulls for consumers to go solar and no doubt the range of attractive government rebates and other incentives on offer.

10) Do you offer finance options?

Making the switch is even easier now, thanks to the opportunity of payment options that reduce your initial offset for solar panels. 

What do you need to know before installing solar? 

Check your energy usage

Gaining insight into how you’re currently using your energy will act as a benchmark for when you start seeing solar results. Your solar installer will use this information to determine the best type and size of solar system.

Consider how you use your energy

Are you thinking about solar in Lennox Head for your home? Or perhaps you’re interested in solar in Byron Bay for your business?

When is energy being used? Do you require a consistent stream of electricity? (Think 24-hour businesses like cold-storage facilities). Are you based rurally and need to improve electricity security?

Choosing the right size system is key

Your solar installer should guide you to choosing a solar system that is best suited to your current energy needs, with room to grow, should it need to.

Assess your angles

Find the perfect angle for your solar panels to maximise your results.

North-facing panels are best, however there are solutions for all different types of roofs and orientations. For example, flat roofs can be fitted with tilted brackets to make the most of the moving sun.

Look for other usable space, too, like the roof of your garage.

Interested? Speak to our solar installation team today

Solar energy is good for both you and the planet; it reduces emissions and pollution thus providing clean, renewable energy for generations to come.

If you’d like to learn more about the suitability of solar in your home or commercial space, we invite you to get in touch with EcoSparx today. We support clients throughout the entire solar lifecycle, from consultation and design through to installation and ongoing maintenance. 

We’d love to help you make the switch, so get in touch with our team today! Call 0410 585 919 or submit a solar enquiry online.