Before you decide to make the responsible shift to solar energy, Hunter Valley Electrics recommends considering a few factors which can provide you with insight into whether your home can support a solar system efficiently. Our team of solar experts takes great pride in helping Australians make the switch to solar by providing easy to understand, step-by-step assistance along every phase of your solar journey. Read on to find out how you can go about choosing a solar unit for your home.

Is My Home a Good Candidate for Solar Panel Installation?

The first factor to consider when going solar is to check whether your roof’s structure is viable for a solar unit. Most solar panels need a significant amount of space in order to be effective. As a general rule, you should ensure that you have at least 200 sq feet of roof space which is unobstructed by chimneys, piping and other roof structures.

Second, observe the direction of sunlight on your roof at different times of the day to ensure that you receive plenty of direct sunlight which is critical to the efficient functioning of your solar panels.

Lastly, ensure that neighbouring homes, trees, and other objects do not cast shadows across your roof for long periods of time.

What Role Does Climate Play?

Homeowners in regions which experience long periods of cloudy and rainy weather should take weather patterns into account. While overcast weather is not a deal breaker, we recommend contacting your trusted solar energy expert to conduct a thorough survey of your location to provide you with the best advice on how to proceed. For example, higher efficiency panels and quality installation carried out by experienced professionals can still provide you with all the benefits of solar power.

What are Solar Panels?

Solar panels require a significant volume of space and determine how much sunlight your solar system is able to collect to convert to energy. Mounted panels are the most common type and are made up of silicones which are available in various price ranges. Monocrystalline silicon panels are known for their longevity but cost more, while polycrystalline panels are affordable and make up most of the market. Movable solar panels are innovative because they track the movement of the sun, adjusting their position automatically for maximum efficiency.

What Size Solar System Do I Need?

“What size solar system do I actually need?” is possible the most common question of all. By calculating the average of your utility bills over one year, you can estimate how much energy you need from your solar unit. Offsetting your main grid energy use with a solar unit is a great way to ease into the solar energy lifestyle while enjoying the long term savings that are an integral part of this energy choice. If you need help analysing your utility bill, contact our experts for assistance.

Domestic Solar Panels & 10 Kw Solar Systems in NSW

Contact Hunter Valley Electrics today for step-by-step guidance on how to switch your home to solar power. We provide domestic solar panels and advice on choosing the perfect solar unit for your home’s energy requirements. Click here to fill out our consultation form and obtain a free quote from our experts.