Frequently asked questions
At Solarworx our approach is open and transparent. Hopefully we have answered as many of your questions below. Don’t hesitate to drop us a line if you have any other questions….
Can I monitor my system performance?
Almost all our systems come with monitoring software included. This will allow you to see how much power your system is generating by the minute, hour, day and year. Some of our systems like 'Solar Edge' allow for individual panel data that makes it far easier to identify potential issues with your system and means easier maintenance.
Most systems also allow for upgrading and adding a power meter that measures household consumption. This allows the user to see real-time consumption of the solar and when you are exporting or importing from the grid.
Can I increase the size of my system?
This totally depends on the size of your roof and area to mount solar panels, and the type of inverter you choose. Our Solar Edge systems allow for maximising the number of panels on your roof. They are by far a large one of the most flexible systems to grow with on the market.
How long does a solar panel last?
This is a very good and common question. Todays solar panels are extremely long serving. Manufacturing warranties on workmanship and defects are usually from 12 - 25 years. Generally speaking very little can go wrong with a solar panel. They are very passive pieces of electrical equipment. What happens over a solar panels lifetime though, is they can and have a reduction of power output over time. All our warranties on our panels now guarantee that the power will still be at least 80% of the rated power at the time of purchase after 25 years!
Do solar panels work in a power cut?
This depends on the system you have in place. Generally speaking we have protections in place to stop your solar system from working when the grid fails so lines workers can safely work on the power lines without worrying about your system feeding power into the grid. We now have though a number of battery systems that will continue to operate and supply power to critical loads during a power cut so your fridge, lighting etc can continue to operate. With these systems your solar panels continue to work and supply power to your battery.
What is a half-cell solar panel?
This is a relatively new product to mainstream residential solar installations. Essentially they cut a standard solar panel in half, thereby reducing the effect of shading from foreign objects or trees. Any system utilising half-cell solar panels will be overall much more efficient.
What type of solar panels do you use?
At Solarworx in almost all our residential and commercial installations we now use Monocrystalline solar panels. These are made from a better grade of silicon than polycrystalline and perform better in lowlight conditions. All our solar panels are listed on the CEC approved module list for safety and piece of mind.
I'm confused by the differing costs and figures.
At Solarworx we truly are one of the most cost effective companies offering solar today. Our systems are designed specifically to your relationship with power and will result in the fastest payback possible. Quality and refinement make up a big part of the reasons for differing prices. We have thoroughly positioned our product line up to give our customers an excellent entry, and high level offering. Further more our installers know the product they are installing and are far and above the regular joe installer!
How much does it cost?
We have systems for every budget. Generally speaking systems start from $4499 installed. The thing to remember though is that although we can price the equipment, each individual installation will vary with length of cable required, thickness, number of individual arrays, surface the railing will be attached to. Steepness and height of roof. There are many factors that go into a correctly installed and designed system.
How long from purchase to installation?
It does depend on the time of year and how busy our teams are. Generally speaking, we have a lead time of around 3-4 weeks from confirmation to installation. A number of approvals are also needed for your property to be able to generate power onsite. We handle this process for you.
How long does an installation take?
Most residential systems can now be installed within a day. We have dedicated teams in Auckland & Wellington who are specifically trained with our equipment so familiarity with products and setup are much faster.
Solar Panel Warranty?
All our solar panels come with a minimum of 10 years manufacturing warranty with some upto 25 years manufacturing warranty. All our panels have a performance warranty of 25 years. Your system will continues to produce at least 80% of its rated power after 25 years.
How long will my system last?
We expect your system to last for at least 25 years. Your panels come with a 25 year warranty. Inverters now come with warranties upto 20+ years and our installation is guaranteed for 25 years.