Solar Panel Upgrade
Can You Upgrade An Existing Solar System?
You’ve always wanted to install a solar panel system for your home or business to generate renewable energy. It has been doing exactly what it was designed to accomplish: save the cost of electricity and supply power to your home. Sometimes, things shift. Perhaps your aging system doesn’t produce enough solar energy or have added new gadgets to reduce its efficiency. Maybe you’re in the market for a new upgrade that is more efficient.
These are all legitimate motives to update your panel. If the time is right, we’ll be there to help you make that choice. Let’s look at the pros and cons with upgrading your system. You will be the one who makes the final decision.
Why Upgrade an Existing Solar System
A key issues to consider asking when thinking about the possibility of upgrading an solar system that is in use is the number of panels you’ll need. This is vital since it affects the design of the system as well as the cost of the entire solar project. The number of panels you will require is contingent on many factors, including the electricity you consume, where you live and the type of equipment you select as well as the overall design. LA Solar Group installers will be able determine the number of panels you require by supplying information regarding your electricity bill.
Why not just purchase new solar panels and stop upgrading?
Upgrades are more affordable than purchasing new systems. Certain circumstances require a total overhaul. The system you have now may not be able to produce any significant output even after a change, as older systems may not meet the standards of modern technology.
In the event that the device has been operating for more than 20 years
The warranty on solar systems expires after a period of 25 years. If the system has been operating for more than twenty years, it is time to have it redesigned. There are new technology that are available today and you may not be able to combine them.
The batteries and inverters will not be affected if you mix and match old and new panels. Mix-and-match solar panels generate power that is below their capacity.
Seek advice from a professional to evaluate the system and decide if it needs an upgrade or overhaul.
Do you need to upgrade your inverter as well?
Yes. You can upgrade an inverter to make it more efficient in converting energy. The core of a solar panel is an inverter. A new inverter is essential for any increase in solar panels.
The ability of your system to handle power is determined by your inverter. You should consider upgrading your inverter every time you wish to increase or decrease the power output.
Since they are typically placed outside, inverters can endure harsh weather conditions. A shelter with an inverter that is with a high-end model is an ideal solution for all kinds of problems.
It can take some time for panels to show issues before they can affect the system. The entire system could fail in the event that the inverter fails to work.
Types of inverters
- String Solar Inverters – This device connects strings of solar panels in a series circuit. This inverter is the most common one among Australian, European, and Asian homeowners.
- Micro inverters Micros are inverters which attach to solar panels and permit them to function independently. These inverters have attracted attention of a small number of homeowners with complex roof designs. Micros permit you to put solar panels on certain areas of your roof. Micro inverters are the most sought-after across the US as well as Canada. These models are more expensive and feature higher quality over other models.
- Hybrid Inverters – Hybrid inverters are a combination of the solar panel as well as a battery storage converter. Certain models can hold a small amount of energy after an outage. This is one reason why they’re popular with solar enthusiasts and use battery storage.
What are the challenges you will face when upgrading solar panels?
An older system might have cabling, existing panels inverters, cabling, or any other equipment that doesn’t meet current standards. This is a major problem when it comes to upgrading. Current standards require earthed panels and systems that employ an isolator that is not polarized as well as a method to store cables (high-density conduit with no plastic cable ties).
You should ask yourself whether there’s enough space on the roof for solar panel installation. If your rooftop system is already constrained, it’s likely that you’ll not be able to install all the panels. However, ground mount systems might provide some flexibility. You could still put solar panels onto other buildings in case your roof space is limited. They could be carports, gazebos, or sheds.
The compatibility of the panels is another concern. There is no need to change any panel unless you’re in search of higher-quality, more effective solar panel. If you are considering upgrading it’s recommended to ask LA Solar Group installers to examine the entire the solar power system.
Once you’ve decided to proceed, you should install the same kind of panels as the original array to ensure aesthetic consistency. They must also have identical power outputs to originally installed panels. It is not recommended to install the same panel as the one you have. If this happens, be sure you get replacement panels with identical power supply or an identical one. If not, it could cause damage to your array.
What is the cost to upgrade a solar panel system?
The best approach to answer this question is to determine what you want. Cost of replacement for just a few panels is minimal, but the cost to replace the whole system will likely outweigh the cost of a brand new installation.
Consumer Affairs reports that the cost of a six-kW device in LA Solar Groupis about $15,000. The tax credit for federal residents of $2,250, which is 22 percent by 2021, reduces the cost. It’s all based on your specific needs and needs, so please contact us for an estimate.
Are there any mistakes to avoid when upgrading?
Although it may sound simple however, updating an existing system is complex. Before you can have the system of dreams there are a variety of calculations and approaches to consider.
LA Solar Group, your reliable solar provider won’t rush to give you a simple quote, or promise a haven. Instead, they will assist you in understanding these questions:
Avoid Losing your Feed-In Tariffs
It is possible to lose Fee-in Tariffs, also known as FiT, which you have in the old system in the event of an upgrade.
To ensure you don’t miss out, ensure you check the local FiT policies and regulations. The policies are frequently updated. Make sure to review any restrictions regarding how you can modify your solar panel.
Calculate if you would make more money using the current price. Before you decide to upgrade your solar, make sure to consult your power company or provider.
Find out if your electricity provider allows expansion of power production capacity.
You might need to think of additional panels as a brand new system in some instances. The existing tariffs would be kept, however, you’ll need to shell out a significant amount of money for the new system.
Don’t fall for sales and sales pitches that seem too sweet.
Sales agents use techniques of marketing psychology to trick customers into signing too promising deals. Anyone who says that upgrading to solar will completely eliminate your electricity costs is lying to you.
The “No charges for solar installations” programs aren’t always cost-free and do not offer a guarantee. Don’t fall for gimmicks or tempting deals.
Before you upgrade, define your needs
Be realistic about the amount of energy your home requires. A solar kit with a matching kit is needed to run a 600-watt fridge.
Your system will operate with a maximum efficiency of 80 percent and the peak hours of sunlight. There is a vast distinction between daylight hours and daytime hours.
Do not overstep your body’s limits.
Certain jurisdictions have limitations in the amount of solar energy they can produce through their systems. That means your locality will only generate a certain amount of solar energy. LA Solar Group might have the authority to decide on the amount of capacity they’ll accept from you.
LA Solar Group might charge additional fees to assess the effect of your upgrade to their system. 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. You may then sell them or contact LA Solar Group to ask if they would like to purchase them. They are still valuable in both off-grid and grid-connected systems.
If they are not up to modern standards but you may still utilize them to the work you want to do within your own property. They could be used to power your agricultural activities. They can be utilized for Recreational Electric Vehicle (RVs) and other devices that are not built-in.
Let LA Solar Group Upgrade Your Solar System
We have been an innovator in the field that of green energy. LA Solar Group has been awarded the title of “Best Contractor of 2014″ and is currently being ranked among the top 3% out of the total LA Solar Groupcontractors. We have 10-years’ rich experience in solar panel installation all the way from California up to Texas. Our experts are all journeymen electricians, and all of our team members are licensed to install photovoltaic systems. Our experience and passion will ensure that you receive the most efficient service available for your solar needs. For more information about our residential and commercial solar panel installations, call us now.
