Solar power is one of the most widely used forms of renewable energy because of its financial and environmental benefits. If you have solar power systems on your mind, then you need to select products best suited for your home’s electricity needs.
Australian weather can be extreme, with periods of a scorching sun, intense winds, and strong hail. Depending on your location, you need to choose a solar power system that will withstand the conditions.
It’s advisable to bring on board a solar power expert when planning your project. But for a start, this article will introduce you to solar systems and give you information on choosing a suitable solar power system for your home.
What makes up a solar power system?
A solar power system consists of several parts that work together to power your home or commercial property. These parts are:
- Solar panels
- Inverter
- Racking equipment/ network
- Battery
- Monitoring device
Solar panels
A solar panel is a collection of cells that harness the sun’s energy and converts it to direct current (DC) electricity.
Inverter
Although some home appliances use DC electricity, most need alternating current (AC) power. An inverter is therefore required to convert DC to AC. This is the most crucial part of the solar power system.
Racking equipment/ network
Your house will need an electricity distribution network to take electricity from the central unit to other rooms for lighting, heating, air conditioning, etc. The equipment includes electrical wires, switches, sockets, and bulb holders.
Battery
The battery is an essential part of the solar power system because it stores energy for use during the winters when the sunny days are more absent or for use at night. The choice of battery depends on the weather pattern of your locality and your energy needs.
Monitoring device
A monitoring device measures your solar power system’s efficiency and electricity production. If the device finds that something is faulty, then it will notify you. The device works together with a charge controller and the inverter to give you real-time data.
How to select a solar power system for the home
Choosing a suitable solar power system will ensure a smooth transition to solar energy and save you money. Consider the following factors when selecting a solar power system for your home:
Size of your roof -The size of your roof will influence the shape and size of solar panels suitable for your house. A large roof has enough space to put several panels, thus increasing the total power. A solar expert can examine your roof and advice you on the most suitable panels for your property.
Electricity usage – It would be tragic to switch from the main grid to solar power and realise that the system cannot sustain your home’s energy needs. For this reason, always refer to your yearly electricity bills to estimate your average daily power usage. This data will tell you the size and capacity of the solar panel, inverter, and battery you buy.
Type of inverter – An inverter’s strength, efficiency, and durability determine how smooth a solar power system will run and how long your power investment will last.
Moreover, an inverter is usually the first component to fail and using poor quality brands will financially burden you in repairs and replacements. A good inverter should have a warranty of 10 to 15 years.
Solar panel efficiency – There are thousands of solar panel brands on the market today and choosing the best is a daunting task which is why solar panels california is an option to take. Different brands have varying electricity production rates, ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, and overall durability.
Always consider a solar panel’s electricity production capacity, quality, and endurance to avoid money and time wastage.
Warranty – Go for solar power products with warranties of 10 to 25 years. A solar power system should give you a break given the high installation costs.
Also, ensure the warranties are held in Australia and the brand has local partners in your area. Otherwise, without a local presence, it would be hard for you to claim the warranty.
Wrap up
Shifting from grid electricity to solar power is a big decision. You should carefully select the most suitable solar power system for your home to ensure a smooth transition.
Consider your roof size, energy usage, solar panel efficiency, and inverter type when planning your project. Moreover, go for brands with an Australian-held warranty of 10 to 25 years.
