Solar Panel Installation Complete

Finally, I now have solar panels installed at the clinic!

Many of you would not have seen it because of the COVID lockdown and our stage 4 restrictions and 8pm curfew; so while the tradesmen were working I took progress photos to share with you. When the lockdown is lifted you will get the opportunity to see what it looks like when you come in for your float, myotherapy or remedial massage. I think it looks sexy; but that’s just me!

The timing is never right when deciding whether to get solar panels installed, but I finally decided to bite the bullet and have it installed. If I had known what I know now, I would have got them installed earlier because my ROI (return on investment) would have probably paid for the solar panels. I guess it’s better late than never; right?

Reasons For Installing Solar Panels At The Clinic

There were many reasons why I decided to have solar panels installed at the clinic.

• To drastically reduce the electric costs, which would be a dream come true. We have float tanks running 24 hours, 7 days a week as well as washing and drying towels used for float, myotherapy and massage services, which uses a huge amount of electricity. Although  I used the clothesline frequently and have an undercover space, there is only so much drying you can do before I have to use the dryer. I have to say I really don’t like using the dryer and ONLY use it when I am desperate. To avoid using the dryer I would even dry towels overnight inside the clinic by leaving them over chairs to dry using the warmth inside of the clinic.
• To protect against rising energy costs.
• Solar energy protects the environment and represents a clean, green source of energy.
• To demonstrate my commitment to sustainability.
• Sustainability and corporate social responsibilities are important components of an organization’s culture and values.
• To earn a greater ROI.
• Increase property value when it’s time to sell (not something I will be doing anytime soon).
  

Solar Panels Installation Photos

​By the way you can click here  for a full view of the photo gallery.

Solar Panel Installment Stages

You’re probably wondering why I’m sharing this story with you. It’s because I learnt a lot going through this experience myself and felt compelled to share it with you. I truly hope this helps someone who finds themselves stuck and needs some guidance, insights or recommendations.

 Solar Panels Tips

1. Get at least 3 quotes so you can compare them. Most importantly you will learn something new from each salesperson that you would not have known otherwise and get some valuable insights.
   
   
2. Have realistic expectations when it comes to prices. If the price is substantially low it may be poor quality equipment and/or installation.
   
   
3. Talk to people you know first, friends, family, neighbors or colleagues, who have had solar panels installed and ask if they were happy with the company they used. They will be able to tell you about their experiences and any problems they may have encountered.  
   
   
4. Do your own research. I found the sites listed below helpful.
   
   
5. Make sure you understand the terminology so you can make and informed decision. Click here for a full list of solar panel glossary of terms. This will make your decision making easier especially when you have to bit the bullet and decide which solar panel to go with and the company to install it.
   
   
6. Make sure the company that you decide to buy from has been around for at least 10 plus years.
   
   
7. Make sure you understand the ROI of the solar panels. If you are not sure ask someone like your spouse, family member or a friend who is great with numbers or you can ask your accountant. Usually the solar panel companies will provide you a report with the entire ROI guide which is normally graphed and quite detailed.
   
   
8. If possible introduce yourself to the tradies when they come onsite to install the solar panels; if you are unsure about something just ask them.
   
   
9. Make sure you have spare tiles on hand in case they accidentally break tiles and need to replace them. I’m sure they would have spare ones but fortunately I did have some spares so they were able to use them to match the existing tiles on the roof.
   
   
10. Find out about the company’s product warranty, i.e. panel warranty, inverter warranty, performance and manufacture warranty. Reputable companies offer longer warranty periods but be mindful that for the warranty to be honoured the company needs to be operating still.
    
    
11. Compare components and warranty periods. Some companies may offer lower pricing but cut corners in order to be able to offer those prices.
    
    
12. Find out if the company has solar panel certification. The certification indicates the type of testing that has been done on the panels.
    
    
13. Be sure to use an accredited solar power system installer certified by the Clean Energy Council.
    
    
14. Decide on the type of solar panels you are going to purchase. You may want to take into account your roof space and decide on the panel size that is suitable.
    
    
15. Ensure your solar panel mounting is engineer certified for your area. The mounting system is important so make sure you ask about wind certification and warranty arrangements.
    
    
16. Check if there are any state or federal rebates offered by the company.
    
    
17. Have a look at the company’s reviews online. At the end of the day you can read all you like but you need to trust the people and the company you choose to do the job and be able to connect with them.
    
    
18. Once you have your solar panels installed leave it for a couple of weeks and then compare payback you get from other suppliers to see which one will give you a better deal.
    
    
19. If you are getting an inverter make sure you have the trade person install it under the shade or have a covering to protect it from the sun. Do not assume they know the best place instead sometimes they want easy access and easy to install.
    
    
20. Now wait and see your first bill to see your cost savings.

What To Be Aware Of When Looking For A Solar Panel Company

You really want to be aware of a few things when you are talking to different solar companies such as:

• Cheap deals.
  
• Feeling pressured by the salespeople. If possible talk to someone who will be installing the solar panels instead of the salesperson because they are more likely be the person who will install the solar panels.
  
• Being called and followed up every day or every second day.
  
• If you are still feeling pressured you may want to mention you have gone with another company and thank them for their time.

Another helpful hit is you might want to watch this YouTube video below - Solar '101' 2020 Edition - A beginner's guide for solar for Australians. It's worth your time and I promise you won’t be disappointed. I found this after my solar was installed and I must admit I wished I had seen this before I got my installed. This is the reason I highly recommend you watch this as a starting resource. And to make your life easier here is the PDF link if you just would rather read instead of watching the YouTube video.

Resources

Below are a few websites that may help you with understanding solar panels.

• Australian Energy Foundation
• Choice Product Review
• Canstar Blue
• Solar Power Glossary
• Solar '101' 2020 Edition - A Beginner's Guide for Solar for Australians
• Solar Guide PDF

 
Gook luck with your solar panel seach.