You undoubtedly already know this, but solar power is a fantastic investment for both your wallet and the environment. Not only do solar panels provide clean, renewable energy, they also offer long-term savings on electricity bills that for everybody else are absolutely skyrocketing. The even better news is that modern solar panels are designed to be incredibly durable, often lasting 25 years or more with minimal maintenance.
But as we begin to emerge from another wet and wild winter, it’s a good time to address a common concern: can hail damage solar panels?
Understanding solar panels and hail damage
Did you know that most parts of Australia experience 1-3 ‘hail days’ per year? And that in more storm-prone areas, including Queensland, that number can rise to as many as 5-10 annual hail days? Now, while the panels on your roof are designed to deal with extreme weather, including strong winds and heavy rain, huge chunks of ice falling at high speed can be a different story.
1. Can hail damage solar panels?
The answer is simple: Yes.
But the good news here is that hail damage is still quite rare. That’s because your solar panel engineers designed these products to cope with all sorts of weather – including normal hail. And the best solar panel brands out there were every tested to withstand hailstones up to about 3cm in size, falling at terminal velocity.
Beyond that, though, your panels could certainly sustain some hail damage.
2. Solar panel hail damage: What to look for
After a hailstorm, it’s a good idea to check your panels out for visible damage. You’ll be looking for:
Cracks
Chips
Any signs of impact.
Remember, even minor damage can affect the efficiency of the panels over time, so those hail stones might have damaged something internally that you cannot see. Monitor your system’s output over time to check for inconsistencies that might suggest damage.
3. Are solar panels hail proof?
While no solar panel is ‘hail proof’, some have a higher hail rating than others. Check out the technical specifications provided by your manufacturer, as well as:
IEC 61215 certification, including testing for mechanical loads
Third-party, independent hail testing your manufacturer may have commissioned
Warranty and durability statements
Customer reviews
The use of tempered (impact resistant) glass.
4. Hail damaged solar panels: What to do next
If you’re pretty sure your panels have sustained hail damage, head to your inverter and see if you also notice a performance decline or error messages.
5. Insurance for solar panel hail damage
It’s possible your insurance policy covers hail damage to solar panels, so check out the details specific to your policy.
6. Preventative measures against hail damage
Ok, so you can’t control the weather, but you can take steps to protect your solar panels from it. Look into protective covers or netting, and schedule regular professional solar maintenance and inspections too so that potential vulnerabilities can be addressed before they become serious issues.
7. Professional help & repairs
If you’ve discovered hail damage on your solar panels, check in with experienced and licensed professionals for solar repairs – so you protect your expensive investment and ensure not a single ray of energy-producing sun is missed!
Solar panels hail damage – What’s next?
Solar panels may be durable – but when those hail stones are as big as baseballs, already understanding the potential risks and having taken preventative measures is your best bet. If you’re still worried or need swift and affordable help, the best news you’ve read so far today is that the friendly team at Solar Repair Service is just around the corner.
We repair all leading brands and types of solar panels, solar systems, and solar inverters all across Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and beyond – so reach out today and we’ll be right there!
How’s your Growatt? If you chose a Growatt inverter for your solar energy needs, congratulations – you took a bold and important step towards sustainability and energy independence, with a proven brand at your back. Originally from China, Growatt has established a permanent presence in the Australian and global solar market with high-quality inverters and other solar solutions known for efficiency and reliability. That’s made them a popular choice among Queensland homeowners and businesses alike, and while you made a great decision, it’s important to understand that even the best technology can encounter issues. Having Growatt inverter problems? We’re here to help.
Now for the really good news. Thankfully, Growatt has cleverly designed their systems to clearly and reliably communicate problems as they arise through error codes and indicators – ensuring you’re never left in the dark when it comes to maintaining your expensive system.
Diagnosing issues quickly & efficiently
Yes, Growatt inverters are renowned for their performance – and yet you’ll unavoidably experience technical difficulties here and there. Error codes and word-based prompts are essential tools provided by Growatt, helping to quickly pinpoint the basic nature of a problem and guide you towards the fix. It’s in understanding these error alerts that will greatly simplify the troubleshooting process – ensuring your system operates with minimal disruption when things do go wrong.
5 common Growatt inverter problems & solutions
Navigating your way through Growatt inverter issues can be stressful, but also fairly straightforward once you understand the common problems and solutions. Here’s how you can address the most typical scenarios you might encounter:
1. Growatt inverter not turning on
Your Growatt inverter won’t even power on? If this happens, don’t panic – but the first thing to do is to check that there’s no issue with your home’s power supply or circuit breakers. If that’s not it, verify that all the critical connections to the inverter are secure and that the system isn’t displaying any specific error codes which could indicate a deeper issue.
2. Growatt inverter error 117
We’ve put this one at #2 because it crops up quite a lot. Error 117 typically signals an internal communication error within the inverter. The really good news, however, is that a simple power cycle to reset the system can clear the issue with nothing else left to do. But if that doesn’t work, you’ll need to get the internal components checked, or possibly the firmware updated.
3. The red light indicator
Has that Growatt inverter red light got you scratching your head? You’re right to suspect that it’s some sort of fault condition – and hopefully the exact nature of the problem is further detailed by an accompanying error code.
For all of the various codes and the more detailed troubleshooting steps, you may need to get that user manual out. And if worse comes to worst, Growatt Australia Support should always be there for you – or your friendly local solar inverter repair technician!
4. The other major Growatt inverter fault codes
We just mentioned that there are many Growatt error codes. Well, we know all of the ones you’re most likely to see based on our years of industry experience:
#102: Your inverter is confused by inconsistent CPU sampling dates. Don’t worry about what it means – just turn off the DC switch, shut down the system, turn it back on again and see if it clears.
#116: This is an EEPROM error, which means there’s an issue with reading and writing to your system’s memory. If you see it and it goes away, don’t worry about it. But if it won’t go away, restart the system – and prepare yourself for the possibility of needing a new control board.
AC V Outrange: There’s a problem with the grid voltage, but it’s common when the sun is really shining if there’s a lot of other houses in your area with solar systems. If it persists, seek professional help.
5. Growatt PV Isolation Low
Is ‘PV Isolation Low’ the error you’re getting? That’s a sure sign that your system has detected insufficient isolation from the photovoltaic (PV) panels. It could be due to moisture ingress or a fault in the PV array, but either way, it’s crucial that you address the problem promptly to avoid further damage or even a safety hazard.
Don’t forget your Growatt maintenance!
Always remember, a little bit of regular maintenance really can help you dodge some or all of these common solar inverter issues. Focus on the ventilation around your inverter, ensuring it’s not blocked or obstructed, and don’t forget to give those connections and cables a visual once-over for signs of wear and damage.
Beyond Growatt Australia support: Need local help?
Growatt inverter problems may be daunting and disruptive when they occur, but it doesn’t need to stress you out too much. With a basic understanding of Growatt inverter error codes and the common problems associated with these otherwise dependable systems, you can take the proactive steps that ensure your system continues to run smoothly both today and tomorrow.
Remember, if you’re having persistent problems or seeing complex fault codes that make little sense, the professionals are always only just around the corner. For expert assistance and dedicated service in Brisbane, Moreton Bay, and the Sunshine Coast and beyond, consider reaching out to Solar Repair Service. Don’t let those inverter issues dim your solar experience – because help is only ever a single call away!
Have you got a Goodwe? It’s a solar inverter brand that’s renowned for advanced Chinese technology and superb reliability for the Australian market – making them pretty popular all across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and far beyond in a skyrocketing Australian solar market. But although they deliver high performance for your solar panel energy conversion, like any sophisticated and innovative electronic device, Goodwe inverters can experience issues. Hopefully it’s not a total system failure, but you may see a helpful error code or another message that can lead you onto the right path.
Got GoodWe inverter problems? You’ve found the ultimate guide:
Understanding Goodwe inverter fault codes
For particular issues, these popular inverters display specific GoodWe inverter error codes to alert users just like you to potential solar inverter issues within the system – giving you a hint about what to do next.
Notable GoodWe error codes include:
Codes 1 and 2: Those are SPI and EEPROM failures, pointing to internal communication and memory chip issues.
Codes 3, 15, and 17: These are related to grid and voltage irregularities.
Codes 7 and 25: You’ve got a relay check failure, preventing your system from connecting to or disconnecting to the electrical grid.
Codes 13 and 14: Warnings about high DC injection or failure – necessitating a repair call-out.
Beyond GoodWe error codes: Common display messages
Double-helpfully, GoodWe inverters also provide general status messages that help users in a more generic way to understand the inverter’s current operational state. You may also have a clear symptom or a basic understanding of what’s gone wrong – so let’s get into what else you need to know:
1. Goodwe RSVD fault
Got a RSVD fault? It’s a bit cryptic, and it stands for a reserved error – which could mean a complex internal problem. Treat it like an unspecified error, or a call for specialised diagnostic tools and expertise to identify and resolve the problem.
2. Inverter not turning on?
GoodWe inverter not turning on at all? What may have gone wrong is a cut in the power supply, a tripped breaker at the circuit box, or something serious that’s gone wrong inside the unit. The verdict: call for the best solar inverter repair service near you.
3. Resetting your Goodwe inverter
Suspect your GoodWe just needs a good hard reset? Here’s how to reset GoodWe inverter models of just about every type:
Simply turn off the AC and DC switches, wait a good few minutes, and then turn it all back on. It’s a super-helpful resolution for issues like unexplained system hang-ups or a multitude of minor glitches.
4. Inverter displays “Waiting”
GoodWe inverter waiting? If that’s the message you’re getting, it usually means the inverter really is waiting … for a stable grid connection. It may also be waiting for sufficient sunlight to start generating the usable solar power you need.
5. GoodWe inverter – No display at night
Are you worried about your GoodWe inverter when there’s no display at night? Relax, because it’s perfectly normal for your inverter to be showing no display at all at night – when no solar production is occurring, for obvious reasons!
6. GoodWe inverter utility loss
Is “utility loss” your issue? That’s the news you’ll get when the inverter can’t detect a single sign of any connection to the grid – which could be because the grid is down or you’ve been disconnected for another reason.
7. GoodWe inverter offline
If your GoodWe has gone offline, it might be due to communication issues or a disconnection from the monitoring platform. The problem may be the network settings, or a router failure that has interrupted the connection between your inverter and the online monitoring tools.
Goodwe inverter troubleshooting: What’s next?
Rest assured, GoodWe solar inverters are built for peak performance, durability and affordability – making them a great choice for your Queensland or Australian home. However, understanding the error codes and other basic troubleshooting steps is absolutely critical to maintaining their efficiency and longevity. From the mysterious RSVD fault to a simple reset procedure, knowing how to respond to these alerts can save you time, money and peace of mind.
Encountering persistent or unresolvable GoodWe inverter problems? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us right here at Solar Repair Service. We repair, service and maintain all brands of solar inverters supplied and installed throughout Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Ipswich, Gympie, the Sunshine Coast, and beyond – and provide friendly professional advice as well as fully-guaranteed workmanship on every single job. Keep your solar system operating smoothly with Solar Repair Service – why not give us a shout today?
Sometimes, amid all the internet noise, we just need a one-stop guide – especially when it comes to complex technical troubleshooting! If you’ve clicked through and found this page, hopefully it’s because Sungrow inverter problems have arisen and it’s thrown out an error code that you just need a straight answer to!
We don’t need to tell you that solar power systems are a brilliant investment for sustainable energy production, offering both environmental and financial benefits in increasingly troubling times. And we probably also don’t need to tell you that Sungrow is one of the best solar inverter brands in the business, standing out for innovative, reliable solar inverters that enhance accessible green energy accessibility worldwide.
Sungrow inverter not working? Here’s what to do
Despite that quality, reliability, and efficiency, even Sungrow inverters – like any sophisticated technology – sometimes run into issues. The good news? It’s the specific Sungrow inverter error codes they helpfully display on that read-out.
But in a vast sea of information available online, it’s hard to get a clear, concise Sungrow inverter troubleshooting guide that cuts through the noise and just gives you the answer. So that’s what we’re endeavouring to do today! We’ve done all the hard work and broken it all down into 5 of the most common issues indicated by Sungrow inverter fault codes, providing understanding of what your inverter is telling you, and what you need to do next.
Understanding your Sungrow inverter’s messages
The error codes on your Sungrow inverter are your first and often last hint that something’s amiss. They’re codes that cover the scope of inverter issues, from grid disturbances to temperature anomalies. So first up, here’s why understanding these five categories is crucial for maintaining your system’s health:
1. Grid voltage & frequency disturbances
Fluctuations in grid voltage and frequency can seriously disrupt your inverter’s performance, indicated by codes like 002, 004 and 008.
2. Overcurrent faults
Excessive current flow, represented by Sungrow fault codes such as 006 and 022, can signal potential risks to your system’s components.
3. Electrical connection problems
Errors like 028 and 106 highlight issues in the inverter’s physical connection setup, necessitating a check on wiring and grounding.
4. Software compatibility
Sungrow error code 085 suggests a mismatch in software versions, requiring updates to ensure smooth operation.
5. Temperature issues
Codes 036 and 037 alert you to temperature-related issues, potentially affecting the inverter’s efficiency and longevity.
The significance of Sungrow error codes: What it all means
Bear in mind, each error code not only identifies a specific problem but also directs the user towards an appropriate response – from simple resets to contacting professional support. Here’s what you can do for some of the most common codes:
1. Grid disturbances
For codes like 002 and 004, verify grid stability and contact your utility provider if issues persist.
2. Overcurrent issues
Inspect the solar panel connections for codes 006 and 022, ensuring all wiring is secure and without faults.
3. Connection problems
Check all electrical connections for tightness and correct installation, especially if you see errors 028 or 106.
4. Software issues
Update your inverter’s software when faced with code 085 to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
5. Temperature concerns
Ensure adequate ventilation whilst also checking for direct sunlight exposure when encountering codes 036 or 037.
Finding your trusted Solar Repair Service
But how many Sungrow inverter fault codes are there in total? The answer is as simple as it is overwhelming: “Dozens”. Many of them, and in all honesty most of them, point to issues that require expertise that’s well beyond a simple DIY fix. And that’s where a reputable solar repair service becomes invaluable.
With our team of certified technicians, up-to-date knowledge on Sungrow inverters that we work on all the time, and a commitment to excellent customer service, let us be your go-to professionals for solar system repairs and services of all kinds.
Sungrow inverter problems? What to do next
Don’t let those error codes leave you in the dark. Understanding what these numbers mean – or at least taking them seriously – is the first step in safeguarding the efficiency and longevity of your long-term solar investment.
So for issues beyond simple troubleshooting, rely on Solar Repair Service for professional, reliable support. To access upfront pricing, fully-guaranteed workmanship for life and solar maintenance services across the board, schedule a consultation today or get in touch to ask how we can help keep your solar system running smoothly. Keep harness the sun’s power without interruption by putting your trust in Solar Repair Service.
Is your solar inverter a Fronius? You made a wise choice, as it’s not just a company steeped in 8 decades of history, it’s Austrian – a region renowned for precision technological excellence. It’s no surprise that Fronius has established a strong foothold in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and beyond amid Australia’s growing focus on renewables, thanks to quality engineering, durability, and solar energy optimisation. So while Fronius inverter problems are rare, they do happen – and when they do, Queensland’s vast and diverse geography can make it difficult to access official Fronius support Australia-wide to figure out something as simple as knowing what those error codes mean.
Having trouble contacting Fronius support Australia?
Luckily, the company – like most other inverter suppliers – has tried to make every Fronius inverter problem as easily diagnosable as possible. It’s through the system of Fronius error codes – specific alphanumeric sequences displayed by the inverter to indicate particular problems or malfunctions for efficient troubleshooting and Fronius inverter repair. Having trouble not only finding those Fronius inverter fault codes, but properly understanding what they mean – and what to do next? We have all the answers in our exclusive error code guide to Fronius inverter troubleshooting.
If all you do is check the manual, what you might get is the code alongside an explanation like “Configuration value out of limits”. But what does that even mean? We have all the answers, so read on.
Exclusive Fronius inverter troubleshooting
What we’ve done is summarise some of the major categories of Fronius inverter problems and break down their related error codes – and let you know what you should do next:
1. Grid connection issues
Error Code 102: Grid voltage out of tolerance, which indicates that the inverter is detecting voltage from the grid that is too high or too low.
WHAT’S NEXT?: Check if the grid parameters set on the inverter match the local grid’s requirements. If you have no idea, you’ll need expert support.
Error Code 301: No grid connection, telling you that the inverter is unable to detect a connection to the electrical grid.
WHAT’S NEXT?: If your home has power, get help for your inverter fault.
2. Communication problems
Error Code 401: There’s a communication error between inverter components, suggesting an issue with internal communication.
WHAT’S NEXT?: Try resetting the inverter, and checking all data communication connections. The next step is expert support.
Error Code 402: There’s a problem with the connection to external monitoring devices, or the internet connection for remote monitoring. Fronius 999 error is similar.
WHAT’S NEXT?: Check your internet connection and external monitoring system configuration. The next step could be checking the manual for setup advice – or pro help.
3. Over temperature
Error Code 117: Your inverter is overheating, which can be caused by hot weather or inadequate ventilation around the inverter.
WHAT’S NEXT?: Is your Fronius being blasted by direct sunlight? And is there plenty of room around the device for ventilation? Resolve the issues ASAP to protect the sensitive internal components.
4. Internal faults
Error Code 443: Depending on where you refer to in order to understand the 443 error, you may get different answers – like asymmetric voltage or DC energy transfer failures. The truth is that a general internal error has occurred inside the box, indicating a serious inverter malfunction.
WHAT’S NEXT?: This type of fault typically requires an inspection or repair.
Error Code 475: This internal fault has been triggered by a solar panel grounding problem, causing an internal relay failure.
WHAT’S NEXT?: Power down your Fronius inverter straight away and call for help.
5. Firmware issues
Error Code 609: This is the one we mentioned at the top – the “configuration value out of limits” problem that leaves you scratching your head. The most likely explanation is that the device’s firmware has become out of date and needs an urgent update.
WHAT’S NEXT?: You may be able to follow Fronius’ instructions to perform the update yourself, but expert guidance is recommended to ensure proper procedures are followed to ensure compatibility.
Extra mentions:
Fronius state 509 may simply be a polite request for a solar panel clean
Fronius state 307 may not be a major problem at all – perhaps there’s just not enough sun in the sky
Fronius error 105 and Fronius error 102 are AC power problems, but they should resolve themselves with no user intervention
The explanation to Fronius state 104 is hard to find on the internet, but it’s another grid issue that should resolve when the supplied power is back within tolerable limits
Fronius 999 error.
Fronius inverter problem? Here’s the quickest fix
The good news is that Fronius inverters are renowned for their detailed diagnostic systems – but the bad news is that all the way from 100 to 999, there are an awful lot of those Fronius error codes!
The easiest way to identify, troubleshoot and resolve the full spectrum of solar inverter problems so that your system is protected from total failure and always running optimally is with the help of Solar Repair Service.
Have you gone solar? You’ll never regret making this on-trend and transformative decision, as it not only represents a massive step towards a sustainable and ‘green’ lifestyle but will also drive down or slash your power bills just as they are soaring. But now that you’ve tapped into solar energy’s potential, considering solar battery storage is the logical step to take it to the next level. Integrating a solar battery in Brisbane allows you to store rather than waste excess solar energy you generate during the day – meaning you can enjoy continuous and reliable ‘free’ solar energy at night or when the grid goes down. But are you asking yourself: What size solar battery do I need?
What size solar battery do I need for my house?
They say that size doesn’t matter, but that’s definitely not true when it comes to solar battery size. Now, when discussing solar battery sizes, we’re not talking about its physical dimensions but its storage capacity and power output. Too big, and you’re only wasting money and even compromising solar power’s overall efficiency. And too small that you won’t be able to store enough solar power for your household’s needs, leaving you just about as reliant on the grid as you were in the first place.
Why a solar battery sizes chart isn’t enough?
Just planning to use one of those free online solar battery size calculator apps you’ve seen? While they may give you a decent idea to estimate your solar battery needs, they merely use generalised assumptions and standard formulas. And few of them factor in your specific consumption, the unique solar potential of your location, your daily usage fluctuations, and the efficiencies of different solar panel types.
Remember, a mismatch between the right solar battery sizes for you and the actual product you purchase takes away from the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your solar setup. The solution?
Try our detailed guide to correct solar battery sizes
Try our exclusive and thorough step-by-step approach to helping you answer the question: What size solar battery do I need?
1. Check your daily energy usage
First, we’ll need to figure out how much your household is using energy every day – on average. Helpfully, you should find the figure in kilowatt-hours (kWh) on your power bill, but also pay close attention to identifying patterns and peak usage periods.
2. Assess your solar panel output
Now, we’ll need to figure out how much of that daily usage is already taken care of by your solar panel setup’s average daily energy output. And the answer doesn’t just depend on the panels, but also on where you are and the amount of sunlight they are exposed to at different times throughout the year.
3. Evaluate peak demand times
Observe that at certain times – let’s say evenings when everyone’s home – your household energy demand tends to peak. It’s therefore critical to not just have a basic capacity overview, but whether your solar battery is capable of meeting peak rather than overall energy demand – especially in non-sunshine periods.
4. Calculate battery capacity needs
With your consumption and output data, you’ll now need to estimate the required storage capacity of your battery – usually in kWh. This step means:
Breaking down usage over different times of the day
Subtracting consumed solar energy from total consumption
Factoring in days of low solar production (ie. the need for surplus energy)
Striking a balance between excess capacity & inefficiency.
5. Don’t forget about depth of discharge (DoD)
Once you calculate solar battery size roughly, don’t forget about the DoD – the concept that these batteries vary in terms of how thoroughly they can be depleted of energy. So once you hone in on a product, see how high or low the DoD factor is.
6. Don’t overlook battery quality
One of the differences between high-quality solar batteries and lower-quality ones is how much heat they lose during charging and discharging. Sometimes, a cheap solar battery may seem to have enough usable energy – and then you find that it’s pretty inefficient.
7. Is your solar panel going to work?
You can get a very good idea of solar battery capacity, only to discover that it’s not compatible with your existing solar system – or compliant with local rules.
Are you getting a good idea of what size battery you need for your house? If you thought our step-by-step process was straightforward, don’t forget that each step involves complex calculations and personalised considerations – and even more layers of data analysis and a deep understanding of solar energy systems.
Ask our experts about solar battery size
So while getting a very good idea about the required battery size is beneficial, you’ll need a solar electrician to make your calculations personalised and perfect. Remember, solar power is a major and long-term investment – so why not ask the friendly solar specialists at Solar Repair Service for help?
We offer personalised consultations, detailed energy assessments and tailor-made solutions to ensure your solar battery is perfectly sized for your needs and is always in tip-top shape. By using Solar Repair Service, you’re gaining a partner dedicated to maximising your solar investment – so get in touch today.
We live in an era marked by the ominous challenges of climate change and skyrocketing energy costs. But there’s good news: there’s never been a better time to make the big leap by transitioning your home to solar energy. Now, just about every homeowner understands that turning that free and abundant energy from the sun in the sky into clean and green usable electricity requires solar panels. But you may be surprised how often our Queensland solar electricians hear the questions: “What is a solar inverter?” and “how do inverters work”?
What is a solar inverter?
So let’s dive right in because without a solar inverter, those panels on your roof will still do all the hard work of capturing that delicious sunlight and turning it into electricity – but it will be useless for your household appliances and systems. Why’s that? Because the electricity those panels will make is direct current (DC) – and what our homes require is alternating current (AC). To keep it simple, the sun’s rays hit the photovoltaic cells and trigger a direct flow of electrons – DC power. It then needs to be fed into something that turns that simple DC power into electricity that can change direction (AC) – and for that, we need the solar panel inverter.
How do solar inverters work?
And what is a solar inverter? It looks like a compact, bow-like device, often mounted near your property’s main electrical panel, either indoors or outdoors. And how does an inverter work? Let’s keep it super-simple and as non-technical as humanly possible – and explain it step-by-step for you.
1. A ray of light
Imagine a ray of sunlight, travelling millions of kilometres from the sun to the solar panel on your roof. It hits the panel, the photovoltaic cell absorbs it, and it excites electrons – creating direct current (DC) electricity.
2. Conversion initiation
This DC electricity travels through wiring from the solar panel to wherever your solar inverter is located. Think of that inverter as a translator, taking the foreign DC language and converting it into the AC language that your household appliances speak.
3. The inverter’s inner workings
Inside the inverter, there’s a set of electronic components that work together including transformers, inductors and capacitors. They collaborate beautifully to change the characteristics of the electricity.
4. Pulse width modulation
One of the most critical processes occurring in the inverter is called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM). By using electronic switches, it turns the DC on and off rapidly, triggering a series of pulses. The length and spacing of these pulses almost perfectly mimics the wave-like pattern of AC electricity.
5. Creating the AC wave
These pulses are then smoothed out and refined by the inverter’s filters, resulting in a sine wave – the exact shape of standard, fully-useable AC electricity.
6. Final check & adjustment
Your inverter will then check the voltage and frequency of the power it’s converting to make sure it matches what’s going on in the electrical grid and your home – which is what your appliances and household systems require to work.
7. Powering your home
That DC power has become AC electricity, which is what your home needs. The newly-created AC power then flows into your home’s electrical panel – and is ready to be used by your TV, fridge, lights and anything else that would otherwise require mains grid power.
Your solar inverter journey: What’s next?
As you can tell, the solar inverter is critical for transforming the raw potential of free and abundant sunlight into usable power for your home. At Solar Repair Service, we provide comprehensive repair and maintenance services for all leading brands of solar systems, solar panels, and solar inverters across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Ipswich & beyond. Got an inverter issue or question or any other solar-related need? Give Solar Repair Service a call today to keep that green, free energy flowing seamlessly.
As Queensland rapidly transitions to clean, green and sustainable renewable energy, there’s one word that summarises the key to that success: incentives. After all, it’s incentives that turn a solar naysayer into an avid consumer of solar panels for their home, and encourage businesses to invest in solar technologies with financial, environmental and long-term benefits. For the consumer, one clear incentive that gets a lot of attention is our local solar feed in tariff QLD – but there’s another incentive that works hand-in-hand.
For many people, while the QLD solar feed in tariff and the installation of solar batteries are two such incentives, it’s always surprising to learn that not too many Queenslanders understand that they have a symbiotic relationship.
Feed in tariff QLD – What is it?
The simplest explanation is that the QLD feed in tariff allows solar-equipped homes producing excess solar energy to ‘feed’ it back into the grid for a financial benefit. In fact, if you get it right, the feed-in tariff can provide a steady extra income stream for solar panel owners, meaning it doesn’t just make those power bills smaller, but eliminates them entirely – and then turns solar power into a profitable venture!
For the number boffins, here’s the breakdown about the solar feed in tariff QLD:
It’s a standard rate of just over 10c per kilowatt-hour
With an additional time-varying rate of over 16c per kWh for eligible systems during peak periods.
How does it work hand-in-hand with solar batteries?
Separately, most solar power users these days understand very well that another key incentive is the increasing availability of solar battery installation. Basically, what it means is that you never waste a drop of that free solar energy because rather than losing it you can store it for when the sun isn’t shining. That way, even in the dead of night, you can be using free solar energy rather than paying for regular electricity from the grid.
The ultimate solar super-incentive
But how do the feed-in tariff and solar battery installation work hand-in-glove to create a true super-incentive? It’s all about unlocking solar synergies and amplifying the rewards. Let’s explain.
1. Maximised self-consumption
Slash and eliminate your reliance on grid electricity by storing excess energy for later use, increasing self-consumption to the max.
2. Increased financial returns
By combining the feed-in tariff with solar batteries, homeowners can not only earn income by exporting surplus energy to the grid but also further optimise their financial returns by using stored energy during peak tariff periods.
3. Energy independence
With solar batteries, you ramp up your energy independence by relying less on the grid and harnessing safely stored solar energy to meet power needs even during outages or at night.
4. Enhanced grid stability
Solar batteries contribute to the stability of the power grid we all rely upon by reducing the intermittency of solar energy generation and balancing electricity supply with demand.
5. Reduced carbon footprint
Combining the feed-in tariff with solar batteries promotes renewable energy adoption, slashing your carbon footprint even more extremely by minimising reliance on fossil fuel-based electricity.
6. Long-term cost savings
Just imagine making money, rather than spending money, on your energy needs! That’s a long-term saving on power bills, making solar power a powerfully attractive option from a purely financial point of view.
7. Sustainable energy transition
When you find synergies in solar incentives, we collectively accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy future, driving increased solar power adoption and powering the global effort against climate change.
Create your solar super incentive today!
Supercharge your solar incentives with the help of Solar Repair Service – a local and leading team of solar repair specialists and solar battery installers across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast & beyond. Are you ready to unlock the full potential of solar power by leveraging the powerful synergy between the feed in tariff QLD and solar battery installation? Contact Solar Repair Service to explore how you can maximise your savings, gain energy independence, and have a positive environmental impact through smart expert solar solutions.
Are you getting slammed with enormous power bill hikes at present? You’re definitely not alone – because industry experts admitted at the recent Energy & Climate Summit that your electricity will cost about 35% more this year compared to 2022. The good news, however, is that simply by switching to solar power, you can expect your bills to then drop by somewhere in the range of 50-70% on average – although some get that bill all the way to $0 or even start to actually make money with their solar thanks to a feed-in tariff. So if all that’s true, which it is, then why is my electric bill so high with solar panels?
Huge electricity bill with solar panels?
So you installed that solar system because you wanted to embrace sustainable energy and slash those electricity bills, right? If you’re perplexed about what’s gone wrong, it could be:
1. Wrong solar system size
If the capacity of your solar system is overwhelmed by your household’s energy consumption needs, not enough ‘free’ energy will be produced – and so your appliances will have to revert to normal, expensive grid electricity. And if this grid electricity is being used in peak usage times, it will cost even more.
2. Altered lifestyle
When a household makes the solar switch, one common phenomenon is that – knowingly or not – the people who live there suddenly start to use more electricity than ever because of the perception the electric bill after solar panels is so low. But just because the energy is free doesn’t mean it’s limitless – and once it has all run out, you’re back to grid electricity on top of those more power-hungry new habits.
3. Solar system faults
Has your power bill surge coincided with an error message or warning light on the inverter? What about the panels – do they look degraded, scratched or dirty? Have you had the wiring checked for faults that could have led to energy transfer inefficiency? Could connections be loose, cables damaged, or junction boxes faulty? If it’s been a while since you had some professional solar maintenance or at least a solar inspection done, get on it now.
4. Shading & orientation
Even if your solar system is technically functioning perfectly, changes in the way the panels get their sunlight – some new shade, or an outdated panel orientation – can cause quite dramatically lower performance. Even the tilt angle of your panels could just need a tweak, which is something an experienced solar electrician knows all about.
5. Seasonal/weather/climate variations
It won’t be a surprise to learn that your panels do a lot better generating plenty of free energy in the sunny summer compared to a particularly grim winter season. But even several unseasonable cloudy days can make a big difference too, not only in terms of what your system is capable of producing but also regarding your expectations for what a particular power bill will say at the end of the billing period.
Sluggish solar: Why is my electric bill so high?
Are you struggling with surprisingly high solar power bills? The experienced, fully-licensed and always-friendly solar specialist team here at Solar Repair Service really can help with:
System inspections: We’ll conduct a thorough solar system inspection, audit and assessment to get to the bottom of any issues affecting performance & efficiency. That includes checking the panels, inverters, wiring and other components.
Maintenance & cleaning: Your solar system is low maintenance – but that doesn’t mean it needs no regular professional maintenance and cleaning at all!
Performance monitoring: All across Brisbane, Sunshine Coast & beyond, Solar Repair Service can set up or assist with your solar monitoring systems to track energy production and consumption. It will help you identify deviations in performance and pick up issues in a timely way.
Troubleshooting & repairs: With our eagle eyes and industry-leading tools, we’ll diagnose the problem and implement the necessary repairs or replacements in a jiffy.
Upgrades & optimisation: Once we understand how your solar system works and verify everything’s working optimally, we can recommend and implement upgrades or optimisations to enhance energy production and boost your savings. From extra panels to an upgraded inverter or implementation of energy storage solutions like batteries, we’ll tailor your setup to your household’s exact needs and goals.
Energy efficiency knowledge: No one understands the local solar game like the experts at Solar Repair Service, and we’re more than happy to suggest energy-saving habits, recommend efficient appliances, provide energy optimisation insights, and keep you up to date with the latest incentives, rebates and regulations.
Give us a call today at Solar Repair Service
Just want to maximise the financial benefits of solar energy as soon as possible? With all the bells & whistles like fully-guaranteed workmanship, upfront pricing, and coverage of all solar technology brands and systems Brisbane & Sunshine Coast-wide, the friendly team at Solar Repair Service can help today.
Sure, the solar panels on your roof are producing free energy from the sun to slash your power bills. But let’s face it: it cost you thousands upon thousands of dollars – and you want the full benefit. Are you worried your solar panels are not working properly? If your hunch is right, your expensive panels won’t be producing the energy output and efficiency they’re supposed to – which means your power bills won’t be as small as they can be!
Worse still, even a single solar panel not working right can cause unexpected system shutdowns – and no power at all. And if your problems with solar panels are left unchecked for long enough, they’ll just continue to worsen over time until the repair bill is either huge or you need to replace the entire system from top to bottom.
Have you got a hunch that you’re dealing with solar panel faults?:
System not producing the energy or performance you’re used to?
Can you see visible signs of panel damage, cracks, rust or discolouration?
Monitoring system giving you abnormal or inconsistent readings?
Error messages on the inverter?
Hearing strange solar system noises?
Entire system shutting down or not starting up properly?
Circuit breakers tripping?
How to check if my solar panels are working properly?
Do you suspect you’re dealing with one (or more) of the most common solar panel problems? When your expensive system is letting you down, it’s not only disruptive, stressful & worrying – you could soon be dealing with huge power bills, even bigger repair bills, or even total system failure.
Just want to know once-and-for-all if that solar panel is working or not? Try our step-by-step at-home diagnostic guide:
1. Check the monitoring software
Most solar power systems include performance monitoring software that may give error messages or alerts that will indicate if a solar panel is working or not. Better still, you can track system performance over time to check for day-to-day energy production consistency and get early signs of potential problems.
2. Check the inverter
Problems with solar energy are quite often not due to the actual panels. In fact, studies have shown that about 80% of all solar problems are actually traced to the inverter. But even if the inverter isn’t faulty, that may be where you see error messages or fault codes.
3. Check the solar panels
Diagnosing solar panels not working can be as easy as simply looking at them. Over time, you’ll see signs of wear & tear, the odd minor crack, visible corrosion or rusting and even obviously loose connections.
4. Check for debris
Sometimes, a solar panel not working properly can be as simple as it being affected by typical roof debris like bird droppings or tree branches. Or, perhaps something is shading or obstructing your panels, blocking the powerful sunlight from having its correct photovoltaic effect.
5. Test the output
To ensure your panels are generating the power they should, as well as the efficiency of the connections and wiring, do the following:
Power it down
Check the wiring for damage, corrosion & connections
To work properly, your panels need to be properly and securely mounted in a variety of ways – whether on the roof or the ground. Performance issues can arise if the orientation or angle of the panels is not right, while loose mountings can cause vibration and movement in the wind that chips away at the connections or damage the panels themselves.
7. Check the battery
Does your solar system include battery storage? If so, it needs to be charged and discharged in the correct way.
8. Get them inspected & cleaned
Struggling to understand why your solar panels are not working properly? It could be as simple as the need for a thorough professional clean with the best tools, techniques and products – or maybe it just needs some sophisticated diagnostic gear and a skilled PV technician to diagnose the issue.
Need some help? Call Solar Repair Service
Solar panel not working right? It’s absolutely critical to have your panels, inverter, battery and entire solar power system regularly inspected, maintained, cleaned, serviced and repaired when necessary by a qualified solar panel technician. And here at Solar Repair Service, we do it all! Swift diagnosis, compliant solar repairs and expert solar maintenance and solar panel cleaning are literally all we do (and more!) all across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and beyond.
To catch problems early and provide 5-Star treatment for your expensive solar panels, inverter and system, give the friendly team at Solar Repair Service a call today.
Are you looking into getting solar panels installed? You won’t regret it if you do, because it’s the best way to slash your power bills and carbon footprint, help the planet with clean, renewable energy, and boost your property’s value with a low-maintenance technology that should last you decades. But how much do you know about the different types of solar panels on the market?
When asked about the different types of solar panels that are available, many people will have a ready answer: “Photovoltaic panels, of course!” But a photovoltaic solar cell is simply the long way of saying ‘solar cell’ – referring to the technology that generates electricity when exposed to light, or photons.
So if all solar panels are photovoltaic, how many types of solar panels are there, precisely? The answer, when referring to the almost 3 million rooftop power systems installed across Australia today, is nice and simple:
Monocrystalline
Polycrystalline
Thin film.
Making things even simpler for the consumer, however, is that thin film panels – whilst a fundamentally positive idea for the future, are not very appropriate for the Australian rooftop. Sure, they’re cheap and light, but the current range is quite inefficient – around 12% or so. On top of that, the materials can be quite toxic which is not a great idea when the idea is to help the environment.
For Australia, then, the choice is clear: monocrystalline or polycristalline:
1. Monocrystalline
This is the original ‘tried and true’ solar panel option, packing the most efficiency punch at around 21%. What that means is that of the sunlight that hits the panel, around 20+% is effectively converted into useable electricity.
Monocrystalline panels, made of ultra-pure silicon, are the ones you see on most Aussie roofs, with the distinctive tile-like matrix of silver lines of wires separated by the white diamond shape doing the energy collecting.
2. Polycrystalline
So while monocrystalline are usually the highest performing panels out there, the way the crystals of pure silicone are sliced up results in some wasted space on the actual panel layout. And because polycrystalline panels make better use of the space, the efficiency is therefore neck-and-neck.
Also called multicrystalline, this panel type is newer – but still made of silicone. Rather than simply slicing up single pure silicone crystals, however, the polycrystalline panel is not quite as pure because it’s case into blocks. Visibly, the white lines are therefore thinner and the characteristic white diamond shape is missing, and you can also see the actual crystals more distinctly.
So which solar panel type should you choose?
As you do your own research into the solar panel types Australia wide, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of both the mono and poly-crystalline options:
Do you need help choosing between the different types of solar panels out there? At Solar Repair Service, we’ve serviced, maintained and repaired solar panels all across Brisbane, Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast for many years. So our CEC-qualified solar power electricians really know what they’re talking about! Why not get in touch today for a friendly chat?
You can’t ‘go green’ without them, but once you’re all set up with your new photovoltaic solar panels, you’ll be making clean, free energy for years upon years. But how many years, precisely? How long do solar panels last when mounted on roofs in the harsh conditions here in sunny, rainy & stormy Queensland?
Let’s face it, getting solar panels is a big investment – we’re talking thousands upon thousands of dollars, even when factoring in those rebates and incentives. The lifespan of solar panels, therefore, makes a huge difference when calculating just how long that price-tag will take to claw back in energy savings.
It’s an important question, and we at Solar Repair Service have broken down all the most common answers asked by people just like you:
1. How long do solar panels last in Australia?
Let’s get straight down to business: in terms of an average solar panel lifespan here in Queensland and Australia more broadly, you’re looking at a degradation rate of something between 0.5 and 1.5% per year. In real terms, you’re therefore looking at a couple of decades at least, and probably 30 years in the real world.
Get an experienced, reputable and fully-licensed installer to put the solar system in for you
Watch out for the common signs of accelerated degradation & problems.
2. What factors affect the lifespan of solar panels?
Longevity alone isn’t everything, because your solar panel setup also needs to perform reliably and at optimal efficiency to get all the cost-saving benefits. And it’s the harsh Queensland conditions that can hurt your panels the most:
Humidity: Queensland’s infamous humidity increases your panels’ chances of being affected by moisture that finds its way in. The good news is that the latest generation of solar panels sold on the Australian market are better at dealing with high humidity.
UV: It will come as no surprise to learn that the UV light radiating onto a Queensland roof is at supercharged levels. High-quality manufacturers, however, integrate clever UV-blocking technology on their panels – especially the ones destined for our bright Australian states.
Temperature fluctuations: As we all know here in Australia, the days can be particularly hot and the nights can be particularly cold, and sub-standard solar panels are less able to cope with all that expansion and contraction of the materials.
Wind: It’s hot, cold, bright and humid in Queensland – and also pretty darn windy! Over time, this sort of battering weakens the structural integrity of your array.
3. When should I replace the solar panels?
Although the typical solar panel lifespan is 20-30 years, that doesn’t mean you won’t get a lot more out of your particular system – especially if your routine and professional solar maintenance schedule is top-notch. At the same time, your panels may reach the end of their effective life much sooner than that.
So how long does a solar panel last before it really does need to be replaced? The magic number is about 80% efficiency, which means you will have lost at least 20% of the array’s ability to generate the power you expect because of degradation, micro cracks and other wear, tear and age-related issues.
We’ll help supercharge your solar panel lifespan
But here’s the good news: here at Solar Repair Service, we can keep your solar panels alive for longer by offering the full suite of solar power system repair, installation, professional panel cleaning and technical maintenance.
Our friendly solar electricians have decades of combined experience working on all types, brands and ages of solar power systems, and offer tailored advice all over Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay & beyond.
