Going solar is a worthwhile investment to save money on electricity bills, help the environment and even raise the value of your home. However, it is a big financial commitment so it is important to get it right the first time. To make the most of your solar panels and avoid making mistakes, we have listed the 9 most common solar panel regrets of solar panel owners.
1. Not choosing the right sized solar system
It is essential to choose the right sized solar system for your home with some people regretting installing a system that is too small or too large. Sometimes budget constraints may result in purchasing a system that is too small. In this case, it will not meet the energy consumption needs of the household and any increases in energy usage. A small system may not produce the required power for the home which results in higher electricity bills than if an appropriate sized system was installed. On the other hand, a system that is too large will also have a negative impact on overall solar savings and your investment. You will have paid unnecessary upfront costs for a system that produces more energy than you need.
2. Taking the cheapest quote
Many solar panel owners regret taking the cheapest quote they can find. While the upfront cost is less than most solar panels by reputable companies, the long term outcome is less appealing. Cheaper solar panels are more expensive in the long run as it usually results in the wrong system for your needs. They are also often a low quality system that may need replacing within a few years. They sometimes even cut corners with installation which can be dangerous as solar panels operate at high voltage DC which requires professional installation. The average 6.6kW solar system costs between $6000 and $10,000. Anything under $6000 is likely to be a disreputable company.
3. Not installing solar batteries right away
Many solar system owners regret not installing batteries as they miss out on a range of benefits. Solar batteries make a big difference to the energy efficiency of a solar system by storing excess electricity that can be used in the evening or when there is low sunlight. However, often installing solar batteries is delayed because of the initial cost. Solar batteries increase self consumption and reduce electricity bills. A 6.6kW solar system with a 10kW battery will increase the first year’s savings by more than $1200. In 10 years, the same system with a battery will save more than $10,000.
4. Not planning for changes in energy consumption
Many solar panel owners regret not accounting for changes in energy consumption in the future. Patterns of energy usage vary over months and years, and it is important to take into account future plans that will increase the amount of electricity needed. If you are considering purchasing an electric vehicle, a swimming pool, installing a heating and cooling system, or doing a home extension it is essential to take these into account when choosing a solar system. Similarly, a solar system that meets your energy demands as a couple will not be large enough to sustain the needs of a growing family. To future proof your solar system, our solar savings calculator takes into account future needs to help understand the type of system that is right for you.
5. Cost of maintaining or replacing damaged solar panels
Some solar system owners regret not taking into account the cost of maintaining or replacing damaged solar panels, and it becomes an unexpected drain on finances. However, this is something a solar professional should explain during the quoting stage. Solar panels need regular maintenance and cleaning for optimal performance to remove any debris and dirt or identify potential problems before they occur. Being on a roof, solar panels can also sustain damage like falling branches, or severe hail or storms, and may need to be repaired or replaced.
6. Unaware of the rebate or how to claim it
Some owners regret not understanding how the rebate works and how to claim it, which is invaluable information on how to save money on your solar system. These rebates from the government make installations more affordable and are an amount of money refunded for having solar panels installed. The rebate works through a Federal Government initiative of renewable energy certificates called small scale technology certificates (STCs). When a person installs an eligible solar system, they can receive a rebate claiming these STCs, the number of which is dependent on the size of the unit installed. Getting the assistance of a solar professional can be invaluable when working through the rebate paperwork. Particularly for anyone new to the solar industry, this can assist with clearing up any rebate confusion.
7. Can’t take solar with you when you move
For some solar owners, a regret is purchasing and installing a solar system and not realising they can’t take it with them when they move. This is because of the updated Australian standards for inverter and solar panel requirements which state specific regulations on solar panel and inverter installation. Solar panels installed prior to 2016 require a new inverter and, in some cases, replacement panels to meet the guidelines. Even if a solar owner could take the panels with them, it would be more expensive than purchasing a new system. This means homeowners either move to a home with an already installed system or organise a new one to experience the benefits of solar power. On a positive note, the solar system you have installed will add a large amount of value to the home you are selling.
8. Not asking the right questions to your solar installer
Once solar panels are installed, some solar system owners regret not asking the right questions to their installer. By not asking questions, the solar panels may be placed in an unfavourable location where there is minimal sunlight and solar panels need sunlight to convert to energy. Alternatively, your roof may not be suitable for solar panels. Some good questions you should ask your solar installer include:
- What if I don’t get direct sunlight?
- What are my solar product warranty periods?
- What protections are available under Australian consumer law?
- Is my roof suitable for solar panels?
- What is your company’s experience with solar?
- Are there any financing options available?
- What after sales service like maintenance do I get?
9. Not getting solar panels sooner
Once solar panels are installed, the benefits start to appear immediately and many solar owners regret not doing it sooner. As soon as solar panels are installed, they start generating electricity and lowering bills. With the cost of energy on the rise constantly, many homeowners realise they could have been saving thousands of dollars over the years but put off installing solar panels waiting for the price to go down.
Solar panels are a smart investment for most people, lowering electricity bills and helping the environment. Because they are a substantial financial commitment, it is important to make an informed choice. Our list of 9 solar panel regrets will help you make the right decision when it comes to installing solar panels for your home. For further information, the team at Tasmanian Safer Solar are here to help.
1300 655 808
