FAQ
At iSolar we aim to provide easy to understand information to allow you to make the right decision. Below are answers to Frequently Asked Questions about solar energy. If you require further information follow the link to contact us
Solar FAQ
How does Solar Power (Photovoltaic) work?
Solar panels transform the sun’s energy into electrical energy that can power homes, schools and businesses. Photovoltaic (PV) cells convert light energy into electrical energy. Solar PV cells are made of silicon which is a semiconductor. Semiconductors are able to absorb some of the light that hits the solar cell, it makes electrons move across the boundary and this creates an electric current which can be drawn off and used by placing a metal contact at the top and bottom of the cell.
How much energy will my Solar System produce?
An iSolar 1 Kilowatt system will on average produce around 4.5 Kilowatts a day. A 1.5 Kilowatt system will on average produce around 6.75 Kilowatts of energy a day. The exact amount of energy produced depends on such factors as panel angle, temperature and weather conditions.
Can I use Solar Panels to power my home?
Solar Panels can be used to power your entire home’s electrical system, including lights, cooling systems, and appliances. Today, Solar Power systems can be easily blended into and suit the appearance of both traditional and non-traditional homes. The most common practice is to mount the Solar Panels onto a north-facing roof.
Does the solar system require maintenance?
Once the system has been installed on your roof little maintenance is required. It is however recommended to check and clean the Solar Panels periodically to prevent the build up of dirt and grime which can affect the output.
Can I monitor my solar system remotely?
Yes, iSolar can supply a range of monitoring solutions to suit budget and requirementst.
Will shading effect the power production of the solar system?
Yes, if any part of the Solar Panels are in shade the output of the system will be significantly affected.
Will my solar power system work during a black out?
No, the system will automatically shut down within a few milliseconds of losing grid voltage and stay off until power is restored to the electrical grid system. This is to ensure the safety of the grid to all users.
If you require further information follow the link to contact us
Environment FAQ
Why is Solar Energy good for the environment?
The €˜clean’ energy produced by Solar Panels does not contribute to climate change. There are no pollution, noise or costly fuel bills. Now you can produce your own renewable energy at home.
How much greenhouse gas emissions be reduced by Solar Energy?
A standard home produces on average 4,500kg of greenhouse gases each year. By installing a iSolar Panel your home’s gas emissions can be reduced to an average of 2,500kg. You will stop the release of around 40,000 Black Balloons every year.
How does a Solar Panel System save our precious water?
Each kWh (Kilowatt Hour) of electricity produced by Coal Fired electricity uses 2.5 litres of water. By installing a 1Kw Home Solar Panel System you will be saving the environment around 3,750 litres of water every year.
If you require further information follow the link to contact us
Solar Financial FAQ
Who will buy my excess energy?
All of the power retailers will purchase the surplus power produced from your Solar Power System. There are also Green power companies who specialise in renewable energy. Generally your surplus power will be credited to your power bill account on a one for one basis.
What is a feed in tariff?
Feed In Tariffs offer one of the most useful ways of encouraging homeowners to install photovoltaic solar panels on their homes. Feed in Tariffs are a mechanism by which owners of grid-connect photovoltaic solar power systems are paid MORE than the retail price for any excess electricity production that is fed back into the grid.
There is the exciting new development of Electricity Feed-In Tariffs. This rate is almost four times greater than what you are currently paying for electricity from the grid.
How much will it cost to run?
There are no running costs. Once your Solar Panel System is installed the electricity is free.
If you require further information follow the link to contact us
Picking a Solar System
When choosing a solar energy system, you will want to have an excellent solar system provider. Solar energy has been around for several decades now, and there are many people who are experts in the field. At iSolar all our installers are BCE qualified and know how to set up your system for maximium efficiency. We invest time and money to know about Australian weather and sun conditions and sunshine availability.
You will also be assured of our good business practices for honest and reliable service. The imporant thing is we listen and act.
Determining the size of the system usually comes down to your available roof area, energy consumption and of course budget. You may wish for assistance with this and we are more than happy to help you on your way to clean solar energy.
Have a look at our most popular systems to learn how we can suit your needs
If you require further information follow the link to contact us.
Energy Reducing Tips
Cooling
Don’t leave your air conditioner on the highest setting. The recommended room temperature for summer is 24°C – 27°C. Every 1°C cooler will increase your energy costs by around 10 to 15%. Cool occupied rooms and seal off those rooms not in use. Turn off your air conditioner for 15 minutes each hour. Or cool your house in the morning and turn the air conditioner off for an hour or so in the afternoon. Keep curtains and windows closed during the day to block out the heat, then open them at night to let in cooler air.
Hot water
Switch off your electric hot water unit if you’re going away for a week or more. Set the temperature of your hot water between 60°C and 65°C. Or, if you have small children, set your bathroom hot water temperature to 50°C – 55°C to decrease the risk of scalding. Installing a solar-boosted hot water unit can save you up to 90% of your hot water costs on a sunny day. Installing a AAA-rated water efficient shower rose can result in significant savings on both your energy and water bills. Fix that drip! A hot water tap dripping at the rate of 1 drip per second can waste up to $25 worth of hot water in a year. Make sure the pipes from your hot water service are insulated to prevent heat loss.
Cooking
Microwaves can cook food three times faster than a standard oven while using up to 70% less electricity. Use small, efficient appliances like pressure cookers and electric frypans which require only half the energy used by standard ovens.When steaming, use a minimum of water and keep pot lids on. Thaw foods completely before cooking and you’ll save energy and cooking time.
Dishwashers
Only run the dishwasher with a full load. On warm days let nature dry your dishes.
Fridges and freezers
Set your fridge between 3°C and 4°C and your freezer between minus 15°C and 18°C. Every 1°C lower will increase your energy costs by around 5%. Turn off spare fridges and freezers when not in use. Don’t allow ice to build up beyond 5mm thickness on the walls of your fridge or freezer. Ice actually prevents the flow of cool air, causing your fridge to work harder and consume more energy than necessary. Keep fridges out of direct sunlight and away from stoves and ovens.
Laundry
Use cold water for everyday washing and hot water for special loads, such as whites and heavily soiled clothes. An over-loaded or over-sudded machine uses more electricity and doesn’t clean as well. Front-loading washing machines are up to 15% more energy efficient than top loading machines.
Dryer
Check the weather before you put clothes into the dryer. Remember, the sun’s energy is free. For maximum efficiency, ensure your clothes have been well-spun in the washing machine first. Clean the lint filter after each use – it speeds up drying time. Try not to over-dry clothes and do run consecutive loads. The residual heat will help dry the next load.
Lights
Normal incandescent light globes can be replaced by modern compact fluorescent bulbs that can save up to 75% of your lighting costs. Turn lights off in rooms not being used. Install timers, automatic switches and daylight or movement sensors for outside lighting.
Heating
Install north facing windows to catch the winter sun and reduce the amount of energy needed to heat your home. Choose the right size appliance for the area you want to heat. Overheating wastes energy, whilst a unit that is too small will struggle (even if running on maximum setting). Keep doors to cold rooms, like kitchens, bathrooms and laundries, closed and use heavy curtains on windows. These can prevent up to 75% of total heat loss from a home. Stop draughts by sealing unused chimneys with chimney dampers, sealing gaps around doors, and switching off range hoods and exhaust fans.
TV and computers
Turn off your television, sound system and computer when no-one is using them.
Energy ratings
When buying any electrical appliance, look for an energy rating. Energy rating labels must be displayed on all dryers, fridges, freezers, air conditioners, dishwashers and washing machines. A general rule of thumb is the more stars on the label, the more energy efficient the appliance.
If you require further information follow the link to contact us
