Need More Solar? How To Upgrade Modern System
As solar energy becomes increasingly popular, many homeowners with existing systems are wondering if they need to upgrade their setups to maximize efficiency. If your solar system is under 12 years old, you might be asking yourself, “Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel for solar?” Here’s a straightforward guide to help you determine whether a main panel upgrade for solar is necessary and how to go about it.
Assessing Your Current System
Before jumping into any upgrades, it’s essential to evaluate your current solar system. Check the age, efficiency, and capacity of your panels. If your system is still performing well and meeting your energy needs, an upgrade might not be necessary. However, if you’re experiencing frequent power shortages or planning to add more panels, it’s time to consider an upgrade.
Do You Need to Upgrade Your Electrical Panel?
One of the critical questions to ask is: Do I need to upgrade my electrical panel for solar? Here are some signs that you might need a main panel upgrade for solar:
Increased Energy Demand
If your household energy consumption has increased due to new appliances, electric vehicles, or other additions, your current electrical panel might not be able to handle the extra load. Upgrading your panel ensures that your home can safely manage the increased demand.
Outdated Panel
Even if your solar system is relatively new, your electrical panel might be older. Panels older than 25 years often lack the capacity to handle additional solar panels and might not comply with current safety standards. In such cases, an upgrade is essential.
Frequent Tripping
If your circuit breakers are frequently tripping, it’s a sign that your panel is overloaded. This not only affects the efficiency of your solar system but also poses a safety risk. Upgrading to a higher-capacity panel can solve this issue.
Steps for Upgrading Your Electrical Panel
Once you’ve determined that a main panel upgrade for solar is necessary, follow these steps:
1. Consult a Professional
Hire a certified electrician or solar installer to assess your current setup and recommend the best course of action. They can provide a detailed estimate and timeline for the upgrade.
2. Obtain Permits
Electrical panel upgrades typically require permits. Your electrician will handle the paperwork, ensuring that your upgrade complies with local regulations.
3. Upgrade the Panel
The actual upgrade involves replacing the old panel with a new one that has higher capacity and modern safety features. This process usually takes a few hours to a day, depending on the complexity of the job.
4. Inspect and Test
After the upgrade, a local inspector will verify that the work meets safety standards. Your electrician will then test the new panel to ensure it functions correctly with your solar system.
Get Rid of Roof Top Isolators
It’s seldom enforced, but network rules mandate that your solar power system should be inspected by an electrician every five years. This is particularly important for the dreaded rooftop isolators (RTIs). These fire-prone DC switches are a risk, and removing them is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss.
How to Legally Ignore Inverter Limits
If you want more capacity than the networks typically allow, the solar inverter standard AS4777 now defines an inverter that’s an “independent” power supply, separate from a conventional grid-tied inverter. By configuring a Selectronic SP-Pro inverter correctly, you can create a large independent system and treat the grid as a backup generator.
The SP Pro acts as a gateway, allowing you to have almost unlimited solar and battery capacity downstream, even though you can’t export power to the grid. This setup provides you with a reliable backup while maximizing your solar energy use.
Benefits of Upgrading
Upgrading your electrical panel offers several benefits, including improved safety, increased capacity, and enhanced efficiency of your solar system. It also prepares your home for future technological advancements and energy needs.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your solar system operates at peak efficiency and meets your household’s energy demands. If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to a professional.
