Getting solar is a big investment. You want your solar system to sit on your roof and deliver savings for decades, so investing in quality solar panels, inverters and even installers is vital.
Tier 1 solar panels
Solar panels are designed to last on your roof for 25+ years. Engineered with durability in mind and with no moving parts, they last very well and usually need very little, if any, maintenance. So when it comes to solar panels, the main thing to focus on is getting a good quality, reliable product that’s going to deliver over the long term.
This doesn’t necessarily mean you need the most expensive panels on the market – although more expensive panels are generally more efficient, so paying more upfront often pays off in the long run. Just make sure you go with a tried and tested brand (we recommend tier 1 brands such as LG, Sunpower, Trina and Jinko) that’s backed up with a 25 year performance warranty.
The inverter: The heart of your system
While solar panels are very durable, your solar inverter is the part of your system that is most likely to fail within the first 10 years of installation. This is because the inverter is the hardest working part of your solar system, converting the DC power generated by your solar panels into AC power that can be used in your home.
Therefore it’s vital you invest in a good quality solar inverter that is covered under warranty for at least 5 years, although we recommend looking for a 10 year warranty. When it comes to the inverter, we can’t stress enough that it is not worth sacrificing quality for a cheap price tag.
Back it up with good installers & ongoing support
Choosing the right installation team is not only going to ensure your system is installed to a high standard on the day, but it’s vital both pre- and post-installation.
A good installer will help you design the right solar system for your needs, including choosing good quality solar panels and inverters. Then, once your system has been installed, a reliable installation company will be there for you in the long run, should you need ongoing support. This is really important because your installer is likely to be your first port of call should any part of your system break down in the future.
The key here is to go with a Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installer. CEC accredited installers are certified and trained to ensure your system meets industry standards – in fact, if your installer isn’t CEC accredited you won’t be eligible for the Victorian solar rebate.
You might also like to ask your installer how long they’ve been in business, whether they offer a performance guarantee and whether they can provide you with any customer testimonials or references.
Get a free quote & expert advice with Solar Flow
At Solar Flow, we’re CEC accredited and have been installing top quality rooftop solar systems for over a decade.If you’re considering heat pump hot water don’t look past the Sanden Eco Plus Heat Pump, one of the most efficient hot water heat pumps on the market.
Our experienced specialists will guide you every step of the way, from an initial one-on-one energy consultation to ongoing post-install support, working with you to design the perfect solar system for your family.
Ready to get started? Get in touch with us today for a free, no obligation quote. Call us on 1300 93 14 24 or send us an email here.