A Guide to Purchasing and Installing Solar Panels
You, of course, know that solar panels help save on energy bills in the long term. However, expect the initial purchase and installation cost to be high, but worth it. Here's a simple guide to purchasing and installing solar panels:
An Energy Audit
You need to have an energy audit conducted before any purchases are made. An energy audit simply determines your energy use, meaning it helps identify how much energy your household or commercial space utilises or requires to perform optimally. It also helps identify solutions that can be applied to save on energy waste and loss, meaning saving on energy bills.
Once an energy audit is carried out, energy audit and solar panel specialists can then identify the type and number of solar panels you need. Your roof needs to be inspected as well to ensure that there is enough space for installation. If there isn't, another suitable area will be identified.
Approved Solar Retailer
You don't purchase your solar panels from just anyone. They are an expensive investment, so you want to ensure you get high-quality, durable and fault-free solar panels. The ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) has authorised a CEC (Clean Energy Council) that requires solar retailers to sign a solar code of conduct before selling solar panels.
The code of conduct ensures that solar panel retailers supply solar panels that have met high standards of quality and also offer high-quality services. This gives solar panel consumers peace of mind when investing in solar panels.
How do you tell whether a solar panel retailer has been approved by the Clean Energy Council? Keep an eye out for the CEC-approved solar retailer logo.
Warranty
Any time you are purchasing an electronic device, ensure you get a warranty. It helps in assuring you that the product you are buying is of high quality and is not expected to break down or malfunction any time soon. A longer warranty period is, therefore, considered better than a shorter one.
Maintenance
Almost all devices, appliances or installations require maintenance to ensure they remain in great working condition for the longest time possible.
Solar panels come with a manufacturer's manual; read the manual carefully and understand everything it highlights, including maintenance instructions. Your solar panel installer will also give you some advice/instructions on maintenance; follow the instructions as well. If you encounter any problem, the last thing you should try is DIY diagnosis or repair. Contact a solar panel specialist immediately because you can easily get electrocuted or cause an electric fire.
Contact an approved solar retailer to learn more.