Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the key things to look for when buying a solar system?
A. No matter what application, a solar system must be well designed and the components should be well integrated. You should feel secure in the knowledge that your system will meet your expectations throughout the year.
Q. What size solar system will I need?
A. The size of your system will be dictated by the amount of daily energy required (loads) and the amount of energy available at your location. A professional supplier will assist you by performing a detailed analysis and preparing a quotation based on the analysis. Using energy efficiently will reduce the cost of your system.
Q. How much will it cost?
A. The cost of a solar system is directly proportional to how much energy you require. Small cabin systems start at a few thousand dollars and, typically, a fully equipped household system costs around ten to fifteen thousand dollars.
Q. Can solar systems be expanded at a future date?
A. Yes. BP Solar systems are designed to grow with your needs. Some minor components may need replacing, but they are generally inexpensive. It is important to point out to your supplier that you may wish to expand your system in the future.
Q. Can 240V AC appliances be used?
A. Yes. By installing an inverter in your system, the DC electricity produced by Solar Panels can be converted into 240V AC. Solar systems are versatile and therefore you can use 240V AC and DC if required.
Q. Who will install my system?
A. A DC System can be installed by a handyman after advice from your supplier but please check your local regulatory requirements. Also note that an accredited installer must install DC systems covered by government rebate schemes. All 240V AC installations must be installed by a licensed electrician. Owing to the complexities involved, BP solar recommends that all Solar Systems be installed by an experienced accredited installer.
Q. How long will my system last?
A. The better designed your system is and the better you understand its limitations, the longer it will last. Solar panels will typically last over 20 years, BP PVstor batteries around 12-15 years and the electronic components typically 10 years.
Q. Can I have an electric fridge?
A. Yes. However, fridges are one of the largest consumers of energy in a typical home, so choosing a high efficiency model is critical if costs are to be minimised.
Q. Will any maintenance be required?
A. Yes, but only a small amount. Modern Solar Systems can provide a large amount of information to assist you and can automatically perform some functions. Ensuring that the Solar Panels are clean and that the battery water level is sufficient are the major tasks.
Q. Are there different types of solar (PV) panels?
A. Yes. Panels are available in different power outputs, frame types, cell technology, life expectancy and efficiency. These factors will determine the best panel to suit your needs. If you are comparing brands make sure you know what you are getting. BP Solar has a wide range of high efficiency solar panels to suit virtually every application.
Q. How does a solar (PV) panel work?
A. When exposed to sunlight silicon cells produce electricity. Panels consist of silicon cells connected together electrically, which are "sandwiched" together between a protective backing and a protective glass sheet.
Q. Why is a regulator required?
A. Unless you are using less than two solar panels, a regulator will be required to prevent the battery from being overcharged. Modern regulators are extremely intelligent and can ensure that your battery is receiving the appropriate amount of charge to maximise its life. BP Solar has a range of regulators designed to suit differing applications.
Q. What size battery will I need?
A. A battery's size is determined by a number of factors, such as the size of your loads, the number of days of storage required and whether you have a back-up source of energy (eg. a generator). Note that bigger is not always better in the case of batteries.
Q. What type of battery should I use?
A. Car batteries are not suitable for use in solar systems. Only batteries designed for repeated charging and discharging will provide a good level of performance and life expectancy. BP Solar has a wide range of batteries from 75-1100 Ah capacity, which are all specifically designed for use in solar systems.
Q. Are special cables and fuses required?
A. Yes. Even if there is an inverter in your system, there will still be some DC electricity. DC electricity requires larger wire and, in some cases, special fusing and protection. Ensure that your installer is experienced in regard to DC electricity, knowledgeable in the relevant standards and preferably accredited.
