How much does a Solar system cost?
A solar system can cost anywhere from $2,500 to tens of thousands, depending on the size of the system, the types of parts you get installed, and the complexity of the installation. Other factors that can affect price include the size of your roof or land, how much sunlight the area gets and what kind of government rebates you’re eligible for.
Are there different brands of solar panels or inverters available?
There are a lot of different solar panel and inverter brands available, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Some panels are guaranteed for 10 years, while others are guaranteed for up to 25 years or more. It’s important that you know what your needs are before deciding on any specific brand as not all solar products offer the same features, warranties or guarantees.
Which panels brand is the best quality?
While there are some brands that are better than others, the results you get will always depend on the quality of the installation. You’ll need to contact a professional installer for advice on the best panels and what’s suitable for your roof, land size or both. Solar Galaxy isn’t affiliated with specific brands, meaning we’re not biased. Instead, we compare and contrast all brands available to you to ensure you can get the best results for your situation.
Do you install batteries?
Yes! We do install solar batteries. Our team can help you select the right battery for your needs and install it.
How much will it cost to install a solar battery?
Solar batteries can add a significant amount to the total bill, but installation costs depend on the size of your system, battery type, and any other extras you decide to add. Talk with one of our team members today to find out how much more a solar battery will cost.
What size solar system is ideal for my house?
This will depend on your electricity usage, location and how much space you have available to install solar panels. The size of the system also depends on whether or not you plan to use the energy generated by the system during off-peak hours (i.e. night-time). Talk with one of our team members today for a free site assessment and we’ll work out exactly what size will be best for your home.
How much will my ROI/payback for solar be?
With reduced Solar system prices over the years, everyone will see a reasonable ROI or payback for solar. It depends on how much energy you use and your location, most solar systems will usually pay themselves off within 2-5 years. There are some factors we can look at to give you a rough estimate. Factors that will affect your ROI/payback include the cost of electricity in your area (the higher it is, the better chance it’ll be worth installing solar panels), how much sunlight your roof gets, and the size of your system.
Does your price include a complete installation?
Yes, the price we quote is the final price you pay, complete with planning and installation.
Do I need to change my meter after solar installation?
You will either need a new electricity meter or get your existing one re-configured, which is able to facilitate the solar power being fed to and drawn from the grid. These meters are called bi-directional meters, as they can both import and export electricity. It’s one of the most important parts if you intend to use your solar panels to generate money. Most electricity retailers will offer or a new meter or reconfiguration for free or at negligible cost.
Who is responsible for meter installation?
You, as the homeowner, are responsible for the new meter or reconfiguration. Your solar installer will help with the application and paperwork required to make it happen. You’ll then need to follow through with your electricity provider after your solar installation.
Are your installers CEC accredited?
All our installers are CEC accredited for your peace of mind. This means that all our installed solar systems are up to the standards of the CEC and legible for STC govt. rebate.
Will I get a local installer?
We have a team of installers that work in our main service area as well as trusted partners in our other service area. This allows us to get a local installer on the job wherever you are.
How long will it take to install my solar panels?
After you’ve approved your quote, we get to work. Our team can have your solar panels and solar power system installed in as little as a few days for residential systems, or a maximum of 8 weeks for complex and commercial systems. This can change depending on the size and complexity. However, if you’re getting a residential solar system, we guarantee installation in less than 4 weeks from the time you accept your quote if you are in a metro area. Installation timeframes are up to 8 weeks for regional area installation.
What different payment methods are available?
We offer several payment methods, including a one-time upfront payment or a finance plan for solar panels.
Do you offer financing?
We can arrange special financing to make it easier on your budget, either through our own system or through Zip Money or Brighte. We offer 6 Months Interest-Free Repayments on all systems.
How long do solar systems last?
Professionally installed solar systems will last you anywhere between 10 and 25 years. All our systems come with a 10-year installation warranty to ensure you can get the most out of your system.
Are there additional charges for a 3-phase system?
You can expect to pay $300-$500 more for a 3-phase inverter and system, but it will come with several additional benefits. It will ensure that your solar power is properly distributed to all 3 phases as they are drawing power. This will save you more money as you will not be drawing power from the grid at a higher rate and sending your solar power back to the grid at a lower rate, while your solar is producing adequate power.
How do I find out if my meter is a single or a 3-phase meter?
Look at the main switch on your meter. If the switch looks like three switches combined into one and is wider than 3 cm, you have a 3-phase power meter. If it’s a single switch and slim, it is a single-phase power meter. A 3-phase meter board will also have 3 thick black rectangular services fuses.
Can I add more panels in future?
Absolutely, however, it might require upgrading your inverter as well. You can also just entirely replace your existing system with a larger one or add a parallel system. We’ll help you find the right solution for you.
Can I hook up a battery to my solar system in the future?
Yes, you can upgrade any solar system with a battery in the future, as there are plenty of retrofit solutions available e.g. Tesla, Sonnen and Alpha ESS. This will help provide power to your home or business after dark or when there’s an outage. You might want to consider adding one if you live in a remote area where blackouts are frequent. Our experts can advise on what size is right for you and how much it will cost to install.
Do I need a different inverter if I want to get a battery in future?
If you’re considering adding batteries, you don’t need a “hybrid inverter.” Any solar system can have AC coupled batteries installed at any time. For e.g. Tesla, Sonnen and Alpha ESS.
What happens to the power if I am unable to use it in my house?
Any power you don’t use will either feed back into the grid or into a battery. You will get a feed-in tariff from your Electricity Retailer for every kWh that has been exported back. This will compensate some of your night time usage. You can also export it to your neighbours through a power-sharing agreement or sell them using a VPP systems such as Social energy or Discover Energy.
Can I sell excess power back to the grid?
Yes, with your solar system you can sell any excess power back to the grid.
What is a feed-in tariff?
A Feed-In Tariff (FiT) or “green tag” gives you the chance to sell unused electricity back to your local grid. You can also export power from your solar system, say, if it’s sunny and windy at the same time. FiTs vary by state so check with your local government and Electricity Retailer.
What is the maximum size system I can get for my house?
This will depend on the space available and installation rules of your Local DNSP. For most states, single phase properties can install a maximum of 5 kW inverter. This limit is 30 kW for a 3-phase property. Some people might be able to install a larger system on the roof, but if you need more space to mount panels we can also do this in your yard with an installation called “ground-mounted.”
What does the 10 years workmanship warranty include?
It includes 10 years of support for work we do. If anything goes wrong with your solar system over the next 10 years as a result of our workmanship, we’ll get things working again free of charge.
Can you beat any quote?
We’ll beat any reasonable quote, guaranteed! We do reserve the right to reject a quote depending on whether we find it reasonable or not. For example, a quote for $1500 for a 7.88KW system is impossible and we can’t rightfully offer that price without severely compromising on the quality of your installation or components. This is not the type of business we do and in the long term will not be beneficial for you or us.
Solar systems will only pay back your money if they last at least 3-5 years.’
How long will installers take on the day to install solar panels?
Solar installation doesn’t take long, usually just a few hours. It depends on the size of your system.
Do I need to take a day off for installation?
We can install your solar panels and inverter whether you are home or not, as long as your property is accessible.
I have an old solar system installed, what happens to that?
We can replace or remove your old solar system. Or we can just add our system parallel to your current system if possible.
How much is the Govt. rebate on Solar?
The government rebate for solar will depend on your location and your eligibility. Rebates are also STC market controlled and reduce with time as the current programme ends in 2030.
How much will I save with Solar?
You can save up to 100% of your energy bill with solar panels! When you request a quote, our team can estimate the amount you’ll save.
How much electricity will I generate?
This will depend on the size of your system. As a rule of thumb, 1 kW of installed Solar will produce 4kWH a day for most of NSW, WA, SA and QLD. This number will be around 3-3.5 kWh for Melbourne. Your installer can work out how many panels will produce sufficient power for your electricity needs and the size of your home or building to calculate an estimate, which they’ll provide in your solar quote.
What is the expected lifespan of a solar system?
Our systems are designed to last for 10-25 years, but will last much longer with proper care. Most solar panels come with 25 years performance guarantee now.
Does my solar system require maintenance?
For proper maintenance, it is best to clean and inspect the solar panels every few years, especially if you have a flat roof. Cleaning isn’t essential as most panels will self-clean when installed on an angled roof, but can go a long way to making sure your panels stay in proper working order.
Which direction is best for solar installation?
The direction that gets the most sun! Our installers will determine the best placement for your system, based on where you live and the shape of your roof. As per CEC North gets the most sun, followed by West and East.
How do I know if I am eligible for a rebate?
If you’re eligible for a rebate our team will let you know and calculate it into your initial quote. This will vary depending on the state you’re in, but Federal rebates are available for all States in some form, whether that’s on installation or on solar energy generation. Some states and local councils also offer additional rebates or incentives, for installing solar.
How do solar panels work?
Solar panels work by converting sunlight into DC power. This direct current is then converted to AC household electricity by an inverter.
Do Solar panels work during a blackout?
Contrary to what you might think, standard solar installations will not work properly during a blackout. Your solar panels are connected to the grid, providing power to your home throughout the day while being supplemented by the grid for additional energy. If the power goes out, your system will shut off as well unless it is specially designed not to.
Installing a battery will allow you to continue to use solar power if there is a blackout, as it keeps the power supply constant.
How much is an off-grid system?
This is complex science that depends on the estimated usage, load and purpose of installation. Our engineers can help you design an ideal system, and advise you on what type of generator is best for cloudy days.
How much roof space is required for Solar?
There’s no requirement for how much space you need to have available on your roof (though there may be in other parts of the country), but typically larger systems require more area.
Is the inverter WIFI enabled?
Most inverters today are WIFI enabled and will allow you to monitor your solar performance remotely. If it’s a feature you want, let us know when you enquire and we can factor it into your quote.
How do I check the performance of my solar system?
You can check performance by looking at your inverter’s display screen, or checking the performance in your solar system phone app. Your energy provider may also include some information about performance.
How much is the warranty on solar panels, inverters, and mounting systems?
Most Solar panels have a 12-25 years product warranty. Most inverters have 10 years warranty, and we offer a 10-year workmanship and installation warranty. Most mounting systems have 10 years warranty as well.
Who do I contact if I have a warranty issue?
Contact our head office on 1300 339 596 and our customer support team will be available to help you out. You could also write to us at info@solargalaxy.com.au.
How long has your company been in business for?
Solar Galaxy has been installing solar systems in Australia since 2018. However, our owners have been in the industry for over a decade.
Is hail damage covered under warranty?
Most solar panels are tested against hail and have hail withstanding ratings. However, you will need to add solar panels to your home insurance as hail damage is not covered under warranty. In most cases, there will not be a rise in your insurance premium.
My roof has shading, will I benefit from solar panels?
Absolutely! Contrary to popular belief, solar panels don’t generate energy based on strength of sunlight. The most important factor is the amount of time spent in sunlight, so you can still get the full benefits of solar panels even with some shading. We can also offer you solutions like Half-cell panels, DC Optimisers or Micro inverters which are more effective for a shaded roof.
Which areas do you install in?
We offer installation in most metro areas for NSW, VIC, WA, SA, QLD and ACT. We also cover a wide range of regional areas especially everywhere around the coastline.
Where is your office?
Our head office is in Balmain, NSW. We also have regional offices in Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide.
Are your installers on a payroll or subcontractors?
We have a team of trusted sub-contractors and installers we work closely with to guarantee high-quality installation. All of our installers are CEC accredited, have been working with us for years and work full-time.
I have a flat roof, do I require tilt frames?
It depends on a lot of factors, but tilt frames are essential if you’re looking to get the best results and don’t want to be cleaning your solar panels every week!
Can you come in person to give me a quote?
If you are in a metro area, we can come to your house or office for an in-person quote, at our discretion. We have been installing solar panels for years and our software will help determine the best placement on your roof, as well as design the system.
