1. Will my solar PV panels withstand extreme weather conditions?
Solar PV panels are designed to withstand harsh weather climates, from blistering heat to freezing cold. Our panels are also put through extreme hail tests, where they endure an onslaught of ice balls travelling at over 80km/h in 11 different impact locations.
So it’s safe to say that they’re pretty tough, but if you’re still worried that the weather has compromised your solar PV panels, please contact us and arrange an inspection. We also recommend annual servicing to maintain optimal efficiency.
2. Why is my solar system not working at night?
Solar systems work tirelessly during the day to produce power for your home. At night however, there is not enough sunlight to sustain operation. As a result, it is completely normal for your solar system to turn off when the sun is down and then resume work in the morning.
3. Will my solar system work during a power blackout?
In the event of a blackout, your solar PV system will switch off and remain inactive until power returns. This is a mandatory safety feature of your solar system. It is designed to protect those who may be working on the blacked-out grid system.
You must ensure that all of the switches on your solar power system are set to ‘on’when the grid returns to normal. If your switches are turned off, you will not generate solar electricity.
4. Why is there an error/fault description displaying on my system?
Disturbance in the grid, caused by voltage spikes, can make your inverter manually shut down in order to protect your property (and itself!). This can cause an error notice to display.
It is recommended that you monitor your system overnight, as generally it will correct itself. You may also try restarting your system manually following our easy guide. If you’re not comfortable doing this, or your system continues to display an error message, please get in touch and we’ll resolve the problem.
5. Why is my solar system working inefficiently?
If you’ve noticed a substantial change in your energy savings, there are a number of things that you should check before worrying about a fault with your solar power system.
.Check how many kilowatts (kW) you’ve used in the past, compared with now, using previous and current bills. The power generated by your solar PV panels and inverter won’t grow with your daily/average consumption. Put simply, if you’ve been using more power than normal, you will pay more when your electricity bill arrives.
.While you’ve got your electricity bills out, check the rate at which your utility is charging you for power. You may be paying more per quarter not because your solar system is working poorly, but because of additional costs issued by your supplier.
.Take a stroll around your property during the day and observe your solar PV panels. Check that neighbouring buildings, trees or other structures aren’t blocking sunlight from reaching the panels. Though your installer would have ensured an non-obstructed view of the sun at the time of installation, new factors may have emerged that are obstructing your panels from working properly.
.Visit the common problems and solutions page for more information and advice.
6. Should I get my solar system serviced?
Solar PV servicing is an easy, affordable and important way to ensure that your solar power system remains safe and effective.
We recommend servicing once a year. Our technicians will perform a comprehensive ‘systems check’ and a detailed clean of your unit. This is also a great time to mention any questions or concerns that you may have about your solar power unit. To find out more or to book a service, click here.
7. Will Negawatts service and/or repair solar systems from other companies?
Yes – Negawatts Electrical has helped other customers left stranded by uncaring solar companies, as well as manufacturers and suppliers who are no longer in business. Our specially-trained technicians are kept up-to-date with the technology used in our own products, as well as those of our competitors, so don’t be shy to give us a call if you need to get back on the grid.
9. What happens during a service/repair and how long does it take?
After you fill out a fault report and confirm your details with a Negawatts representative, we’ll organise for a technician to visit your property.
Though you do not have to be home while we work on your solar power system, we will need access to your main inverter, switchboard and roof. Servicing times vary depending on the work that is required, but typically most jobs are complete in less than two hours.
If additional work is required, you will receive a new quote, rather than any unexpected charges on your invoice.