Solar panels are becoming a popular choice among homeowners today because they harness the power of the sun to provide clean energy. Installing solar panels can be a great way to reduce your electricity bills and lessen your carbon footprint. However, getting solar panels installed at your home can be an overwhelming experience for many.
Thankfully, the NSW Fair Trading has released a guide to help those who are considering getting solar panels installed at their homes. Here are some key takeaways from the guide:
1. Do Your Research: Before getting solar panels installed, it is important to do your research and understand how they work. The more you know, the better-equipped you will be to make informed decisions about your installation. Look at unbiased sources of information and get multiple quotes from different installers.
2. Choose a Reliable Installer: It is crucial to choose a reliable and trustworthy installer to ensure that the installation is done properly. Look for an accredited installer who has experience in the field and who can provide references from previous customers.
3. Understand the Costs: The cost of solar panel installations can vary depending on the size, type, and location of the installation. It is important to understand the costs involved and to ask for a clear breakdown of the costs from your installer.
4. Check the Warranties: Make sure to check the warranties that come with your solar panels and the installation. The warranty should cover the performance of your panels, as well as any defects or damages that may occur.
5. Understand the Feed-in Tariff: The feed-in tariff is the price that you get paid for excess electricity generated by your solar panels that is exported back to the grid. It is important to understand how this works and to choose an electricity plan that offers a good feed-in tariff.
6. Maintenance: Solar panels require little maintenance, but it's important to keep them clean to ensure maximum efficiency. Check with your installer if they offer any maintenance packages and understand what maintenance you can do yourself.
In conclusion, getting solar panels installed at your home is an excellent way to reduce your energy bills and decrease your carbon footprint. However, it is important to do your research, choose a reliable installer, understand the costs, warranties, and feed-in tariffs, and perform the necessary maintenance. By following these steps and using the NSW Fair Trading Guide, you can be assured that your solar panel installation will provide you with clean energy for years to come.