Can You Upgrade An Existing Solar System?
You were eager to put solar panels at your place of business or your home to generate renewable energy. It has been doing exactly what it was designed to do: save energy costs and provide power for your home. Sometimes, things shift. Maybe your older system doesn’t produce enough solar energy or have introduced new devices that limit the effectiveness of your system. Perhaps you’re in the market for a new upgrade that is more powerful.
There are many valid reasons to upgrade your solar panel system. If the time is right we’ll help you make this decision. Let’s examine what are the benefits and drawbacks associated with an upgrade to your system. You will be the one who decides.
Why Upgrade an Existing Solar System
One of the most important things to ask when considering the possibility of upgrading an existing solar system is how many panels you’ll require. This is vital since it affects the design of the system as well as the price of the whole solar project. The number of panels you require depends on a variety of factors, including the amount of electricity you use, where you live, the equipment you choose, and the overall design. Shneyder Solar installers will be able to estimate how many panels you need by providing information about the cost of your electric bill.
Why not just purchase new solar panels and stop upgrading?
Upgrades are more affordable than purchasing new equipment. Certain circumstances require a total overhaul. Your system might not be able to create much even after an upgrade, as older systems may not comply with modern standards.
If the system has been operating for more than 20 years
The warranty on solar systems expires after 25 years. In the event that the device has been operational for longer than 20 years, it’s the right the time to upgrade it. There are new technologies on the market now, and you might not be able to combine them.
The batteries and inverters aren’t affected when you mix old and new panels. Mix-and-match solar panels produce energy that is less than their potential.
Consult a professional for advice on the system and determine whether it is in need of an overhaul or upgrade.
Do you need to upgrade your inverter as well?
Yes. Inverters can be upgraded to help convert more power. The core of any solar system is the inverter. An upgrade of the inverter is necessary for any increase in solar panels.
The ability of your system to manage electricity is determined by the inverter. It is worth considering upgrading your inverter whenever you wish to increase or decrease your power output.
Because they are usually placed outdoors, inverters are able to endure harsh weather conditions. A shelter which houses an inverter of high quality is an ideal solution for most faults.
It will take time for panels to develop issues before they can affect the system. The whole system could fail in the event that the inverter fails to work.
Types of inverters
- String Solar Inverters: This inverter connects a string of solar panels in an in series circuit. This inverter is the most common among Australian, European, and Asian homeowners.
- Micro inverters Micros are inverters which are attached to solar panels to let them operate on their own. These inverters have attracted attention of a small number of homeowners with complex roof designs. Micros let you place a solar panel on specific areas of your roof. Micro inverters are very popular across regions like the US in the US and Canada. They are more costly and are more durable than other models.
- Hybrid Inverters: The hybrid inverters combine the solar panel as well as the battery storage converter. Certain brands are capable of holding only a tiny amount of energy after the event of a blackout. This is the reason they’re popular with solar enthusiasts and use batteries for storage.
What are the challenges you will face when upgrading solar panels?
An older system might contain cabling, old panels, inverters, or other equipment that is not in line with current standards. This is a significant issue when upgrading. The current standards call for earthed panels or systems with an isolator that is not polarized as well as a method to store cables (high-density conduit with no cable ties made of plastic).
Consider asking yourself whether there’s enough roof space for solar panel installation. If your roof is already limited, you’ll not be able to fit all the panels. But ground mount systems could provide some flexibility. You can still install solar panels on other structures in case your roof space is limited. They could be sheds, carports or gazebos.
The compatibility of the panels is another concern. There is no need to replace any of the panels unless you’re looking for higher-quality and more efficient solar panels. If you are considering upgrading, it’s a good idea for Shneyder Solar installers to inspect the whole array of solar panels.
Once you’ve decided to go ahead it is recommended to install the same panels as the original array to ensure aesthetic consistency. They should also feature the same power outputs as the original panels. Do not install the same panel as the one you already have. If this happens, make sure to get new more panels with identical power supply or a comparable one. Otherwise, it could cause damage to your array.
What is the cost to upgrade a solar panel system?
The best way to answer this question is to determine what you would like. The cost of replacing just a few panels is minimal, but the cost for replacing all the panels will probably surpass the cost of a new installation.
Consumer Affairs reports that the cost of a six-kW device in Shneyder Solar is about $15,000. The tax credit for federal residents of $2,250, which is 22 percent in 2021 reduces the cost. The amount you pay depends on your requirements Contact us for a quote.
Are there any mistakes to avoid when upgrading?
While it might sound easy however, updating the system you have is a complicated process. Before you can have the system of your dreams there are a variety of methods and calculations to take into consideration.
Shneyder Solar, your reliable solar provider won’t rush to give you a simplified quote, or promise an unbeatable rate. Instead, they will assist you in understanding these questions:
Avoid Losing your Feed-In Tariffs
You could lose the feed-in tariffs, or FiT, which you have in the old system when you upgrade.
To avoid being left out, make sure you verify the local FiT policies and rules. The policies are frequently updated. Make sure to review any restrictions that apply to how you can improve your solar system.
Determine if you could earn more money with the current tariff. If you are considering upgrading your solar, make sure to talk with your power provider or company.
Find out if your electricity provider allows expansion of capacity of the power generation.
You might need to think of additional panels as a new system in some instances. The current tariffs could remain, but you’ll need to shell out lots of money to get the new installation.
Beware of marketing and sales pitches that sound too nice
Sales agents use techniques of marketing psychology to trick customers into signing too promising deals. Anyone who promises that converting to solar will completely eliminate your electric bills is lying to you.
The “No fees for solar installation” programs aren’t always free and do not provide a warranty. Beware of swaying by attractive deals.
Before you upgrade, define your needs
Be realistic about how much energy your home requires. A matching solar kit is required for a 600-watt refrigerator.
Your system will operate at maximal efficiency of around 80% during peak sunlight hours. There is a significant difference in the days and evenings.
Don’t overdo it. Your body’s limits are not yours.
Certain states have restrictions regarding the capacity of their solar panels. It means you can only produce a certain quantity of energy from solar. Shneyder Solar might have the authority to decide on what capacity they’ll accept from you.
Shneyder Solar might charge additional charges to determine the impact of your upgrades in their networks. Upgrade to a size acceptable by your state or out network provider.
What happens to the existing system that you have already purchased?
You can reuse or recycle old panels.
Examine your panels to determine whether they’re up to the latest standards. Then, you can either sell them or contact Shneyder Solar to ask whether they would be interested in having return them. They’re still useful for off-grid and on-grid systems.
If they’re not up to modern standards, however, you can nevertheless use them to perform work within your own property. They can be used to power your agricultural activities. They can be utilized on Recreational Electric Vehicle (RVs) or other non-building mounted devices.
Let Shneyder Solar Upgrade Your Solar System
We’ve been an innovator in the field in renewable power. Shneyder Solar was named “Best contractor of 2014″ and is currently rated among the top 3 percent among all Shneyder Solar contractors. We have a decade of experience with solar panel installation across California from California to Texas. Our technicians are all journeymen electricians, and all of our crews are certified in photovoltaic technology. Our dedication and expertise will ensure you get the best service possible for your solar needs. For more details about our commercial and residential solar panel installations, contact us today.
