If you’re considering installing solar in your new build home, make sure you get it right from start to avoid any headaches down the track!
Considering this early on in your building plan will ensure you get optimum performance from the system once installed so you can maximise the clean, green energy it generates in your new home!
Here are 5 tips to consider when installing solar on your new home build
Positioning solar panels for sun exposure
When building a new home and planning to install solar, consider the location and impact of shade from obstructions such as trees and other buildings. Discuss this with your builder so they can incorporate into the plans to minimise the effect shading may have on your roof and panels. If you are unsure at any point, you can seek the advice of a solar company and show them your initial plans prior to locking in your build design.
Roof design and orientation for solar
Consider a lower tilt roof as this will make installation easier and therefore cheaper and for maximum sun exposure for as long as possible throughout the day. Generally a roof with a north facing orientation will capture the most sunlight, if this isn’t possible then try for the west.
Location of inverter and other services
When building a new home you have complete control over the location of your services such as switchboard, meter and solar inverter. Ideally you want both of these located close together as this minimises voltage rises and minimises costs involved in electrical wiring. The most functional place for your inverter is along a southern wall or inside the garage.
Pre wiring/rough-in for solar
With the exception of low set brick veneer walls, cables for solar often need to be roughed-in before internal walls are sheeted. Solar wiring is different to the other electrical wiring in your home. As solar cables run at up to 600V DC and are live at all times except for when there is no sun or your panels are turned off, there are strict regulations about how and where solar DC wiring can be installed. For this reason you should consider engaging a CEC (Clean Energy Council) Approved Electrician who is familiar with solar cabling. You can discuss with your builder and request that a Solar Accredited Electrician is responsible for running the solar cables to ensure they meet the AS/NZ3000 standards and avoid additional costs that can occur when mistakes are made with installation by those who aren’t familiar with the standards.
As solar systems are connected to the internet to monitor usage, also consider pre-wiring a LAN cable (data cable) close to your inverter location. Although inverters can run on wifi, as this can be unreliable a hard wired connection is always preferred if possible for monitoring of the system to be reliable.
Choosing quality panels and parts
When building a new home, the plan is likely to stay in it for many years! For this reason you want to ensure you invest in quality panels and parts so that your solar system will last you for many years to come. Not only do quality panels and parts last longer, they generally output more energy meaning they’ll save you more money on your electricity bills. At Goodhew Solar we only use “Tier 1” quality solar panels that meet Australian Standards; we only provide you with the best quality products to ensure the best efficiency and longevity.
Contact us to discuss solar when building your new home
Building a new home takes a lot of careful consideration but adding solar to the checklist of things to consider early has logistical and financial benefits. Pre-planning of design, avoiding potential obstacles that will block sun, inverter locations and wiring will all benefit you and ensure a stress-free installation!
At Goodhew Solar, we can help guide you and answer any questions you may have regarding installing solar, even if you haven’t started building yet (the planning stages are the best time to ask all of your questions!)
Considering a new build in Brisbane or the Redlands and installing solar? Contact us and we’d be happy to discuss!