Services: Solar Power
Commercial/Residential Solar Panels Installation:
– We supply quality Solar Equipment that is backed by strong distributors with warranties in South Africa
– All installations are managed to specification
– Highly trained technicians
– All staff are here to attend to any questions that you may have and we pride ourselves in aftersales service
COMMERCIAL SOLAR PANELS INSTALLATION
Solar panel efficiencies have improved over the years. As this has happened, the return on solar power relative to their upfront costs has also come down. This makes solar panels an increasingly attractive investment for businesses.
However, many commercial developments haven’t been designed to accommodate solar panels.
It is important to verify if you need planning permissions before you proceed.
An inspector will need to know, for example, if the solar panels will impact the appearance of the building, if any trees will need to be removed and what the load-bearing capacity of your roof is.
Once you have the go-ahead, installation proceeds much like residential solar panels installation.
Generally, because commercial solar installations use larger solar panels, are mounted on a balustrade (rather than flush with the roof), require more panels and go through commercial permissions, the installation takes longer than a residential installation. This would usually take 4-6 weeks, depending on the specs of the job.
RESIDENTIAL SOLAR PANELS INSTALLATION
Before we install solar panels at your home, we will set up an initial meeting at the premises. This is to ensure that your home is a good candidate for a solar power system. We will also check the condition of the roof as well as the electrical status of the building. We assess the roofing type, the angle and the amount of shading on the roof.
We will work with you to create a maximum-efficiency design. We will answer any questions that you have about the installation process and financing options. Once this has been approved, we will draw up a solar panel installation agreement and take care of all the relevant permits.
On the day of the installation, we will prep your roof. The next step is to set up all the wiring. Our technicians are highly trained to do this safely and correctly. The racking is then placed on the roof. This will likely be the stage when you will hear the most noise. Once we are sure that the racking is secure, we will place the solar panels. The final stage is to connect the inverters. Our team is efficient and the installation should take 1-5 working days, depending on the specs of the job.
A city/electrical company inspector will be called out to ensure that the work has been done correctly and that it is compliant with regulations. As soon as your system passes the inspection, we will turn on your solar panels.
ENERGY FINANCE
At FM Solar we understand the capital outlay of a solar system.
We now offer financing services to assist you with affordability.
Click here to read more on Energy Finance.
MAINTENANCE & SERVICES
Solar panels require very little maintenance. If they are tilted, the rain will wash any debris away.
You should clean your solar panels 2-4 times a year. Using a monitoring app, you can monitor the amount of energy your solar panels produce. If there is a drop in energy production, it may be time to clean the solar panels.
Contact us to book cleaning, maintenance and/or servicing of your solar panels and system.
Solar panel maintenance and cleaning are not covered under your solar panel warranties. However, if they are damaged, this will usually be covered.
If solar panels need to be replaced, it is best to hire professionals.
Do not attempt to install or make repairs to solar panels.
Call the company that installed the panels if they are still under guarantee. They will send someone to assess the problem and either fix the issue or replace the panels.
Guarantees are usually 15-25 years and often guarantee that the energy output remains above 80%.
The most common issues that affect solar panels can be resolved, provided that they are performed in time by professionals.
Here are some problems that make solar panels not perform or render them beyond repair.
Micro-cracks and hotspots:
Microscopic fractures, hot spots and cracks can grow in size. This can decrease the efficiency of solar cells. It is recommended to clean the panels before assessing the level of damage. Dirt accumulation can also lead to lower output.
PID Effect:
Potential Induced Degradation (PID) occurs when there are voltage fluctuations between the voltage from the panel and the earthing of the panel. The main power circuit will have a varying percentage of discharged voltage. Experts can solve the issue and prevent solar panels from ageing by stabilising their performance.
Loose Wiring:
Energy production problems may be the result of loose wires in the solar power system. These wires connect PV cells to batteries and inverters. Professionals use meters and checking tools to assess the issues. If you notice a drop or fluctuation in your energy output, please do not hesitate to call our offices so a technician can have a look and see what can be done.
