1. Check inside your meter box to see if you have 1, or 3 phases. This matters later for costs of setting up the system, and the size of the system you can fit.

2. Determine how much North facing roof space you have. The more panels you have facing North, the more hours of the day you'll get direct sunlight on the panels (in Australia). If your roof space mostly faces East and West, don't worry! You can split the panels between both sides and still achieve great results. 

3. Decide on the size of the system. If you have single phase power, the most common size is 6.6kW, depending on your available roof space. If you have three phase power, you can often get a bigger system, but that might not be necessary.

Note: The Solar Panels you can see in the images above are both for 6.6kW systems. As you can see, it's possible to fit more panels on the standard Australian roof if necessary.

4. What is your power bill telling you? If you have high power costs, you're going to benefit on day one. The longer you wait, the more money you'll waste on power, the more the rebates will reduce. $600+ in the summer is an example of a high bill that will be reduced dramatically.

Note: The higher your bills, the more you'll save in comparison. Every full sized power bill is dead money.

5. Where is the best place for your inverter? When the system is running, the inverters generate noise. The recommended location for the inverter is in the garage, away from any walls that are shared with bedrooms.

6. What Solar Panels and inverter should you choose? Select reliable common panels like Ackome, Seraphim, Longi, Jinko. Choose a reliable inverter like Solax, Sungrow, Fronius. If you want a battery now or in the future, you should choose a Hybrid inverter, each of those brands have standard and hybrid variants. Some inverters integrate well with specific brands of Electric Vehicle chargers.

Note: Check our products list for more information on the different brands. Veteran Solar only uses brands with proven performance and fair warranties.

7. Don't be caught out by dodgy installers! As reported on Solar Quotes and many other platforms, there are groups that are installing residential Solar for "dirt cheap" prices. Further investigation often proves that these companies are not using the correct accreditations or quality equipment. Poor electrical work will cost you far more in the long run and can cause serious safety concerns for your home.

Note: You have the right to ask for the name of the tradesman who will be installing your equipment, you can check their accreditation with the Clean Energy Council.

8. Post-installation, optimize solar usage by timing appliance usage during peak sunlight hours to reduce energy costs even further. Timers for washing machines and dishwashers will come in handy!

Common Questions:

What if I can’t afford solar right now?

If you can't pay for solar now but have been paying your power bill, we have ways to cover the cost of installing solar for less than what you're already paying. Get in touch with us to discuss options that are tailor made to fit your needs.

*note* The government rebate discount that can be offered to homeowners is measurably lowered each year. The longer you wait, the more expensive the system may become. The proposed end date to the rebate is 2030.

What if I want a battery?

Batteries are best used by people who use more power at night, allowing the solar to charge it during the day. There are various tiers of battery options. A battery alone costs more than the rest of the solar installation so be prepared! Most homeowners are choosing to install systems that are battery compatible while waiting for the costs of the battery itself to reduce.

How much will the system cost?

Every house has unique requirements and preferences. Get in touch with us to find out what package suits you.

Note: A reputable installer will only have options that are safe and reliable. Veteran Solar's "Entry Level" package is still a safe, high performing system with long lasting warranties.