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Solar Panel Fires | 3 Things To Watch Out For

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Item: Solar Market
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Posted: 04 Feb 2021

Tagged: solar emergency | solar fires | solar panel fires | Solar Panels |

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With the 2021 fire season already in full swing, it’s that time again to start discussing solar panel fires.

Key topics:

In 2020 more solar PV systems were installed than any other year.
One in four Aussie homes now have rooftop solar panels.
Majority of solar panel fires were caused by cheap products.
Here’s your 2021 guide in a solar emergency.

In reality, your Christmas tree is more likely to accidentally set ablaze, but with the rapid increase in solar panel installations, solar fires have also become more common.

But not to fear, here are a few easy steps to follow to ensure your solar PV system is producing electricity, not flames.

1. Avoid cheap and dodgy products.

Although you may have scored what seemed like a sweet deal on a solar system, cheap products account for the majority of solar fires in Australia. When looking for a solar system ensure you invest in quality elements, such as, non-flammable cladding, quality electrical cable, and climate appropriate isolators.

2. Book regular inspections.

Not only does regular inspections help to prolong the longevity of your system, but it also ensures that any faults, erosion or dangerous elements are regularly monitored and fixed.

3. Invest in a quality PV junction box

One of the most notorious causes for solar panel fires are defective or corroded PV junction boxes. Ensure these are regularly checked on your system to reduce hazard.

What To Do In An Emergency

So your solar panels are on fire, what now?

Check out our Solar In an Emergency blog for a breakdown of what to do in the case of an emergency and what NOT to do.

Solar Quotes

If you are considering a solar system but you don’t know where to find a reputable company? We’re here to help.

Solar Market connects you with three complimentary solar quotes from CEC accredited solar installers in your local area. These quotes are no obligation and are a completely free service so that you can get the solar system you truly are after and not what an installer wants to sell.

Ready to start your solar power journey? Let’s get you connected.

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Understanding Batteries

For some households a battery system can be of great benefit and minimise a home’s reliance on the grid. However, it’s important to understand for a battery to be useful your solar system needs to be generating excess energy for the battery to store, which you can then use at night or when the sun is not out.

When selecting a battery, you’ll want to invest in a system that is most suited to your home and can drive the best return on investment (ROI). Despite a larger upfront cost, a higher quality battery may significantly increase your ROI.

Battery systems start from $6,000 and costs can vary greatly based on the following factors:

Cycle Life-Time
The number of times a battery can fully charge and discharge.
Battery Power (kW)
How fast it can be charged or discharged.
Storage Capacity (kWh)
The maximum amount of energy a battery system can store.
Battery Management System (BMS)
An electronic ‘smart’ system that gathers data and manages the battery ensuring it does not overload or operate outside of its safe functioning zone..
Inverter
Battery systems require their own inverter if your solar system does not have a hybrid inverter.
'All-In-One Unit’
A system which includes the battery, BMS and an inverter all in one unit.
Warranty
Length of time or cycles the battery system is under guarantee.
Blackout Protection/Backup
It’s important to note this is not a common feature of a battery system and could cost thousands of dollars to include. Blackout protection not only requires additional components but also a specialised installation and rewiring. For grid-connected homes, the cost for blackout protection can outweigh the benefit.

Additionally, if your purpose for adding battery is to go Off-Grid and become completely independent from the grid you will need to ensure your solar system can generate enough energy to power your home and your battery system is large enough to store this energy. For homes in metro areas going Off-grid is not cost effective and is only recommended for those in remote areas with limited access to the grid. Off-grid solar systems with battery start at approximately $30,000.