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As any Queenslander knows, storm season is no joke. From November through to April, Brisbane and surrounding areas can cop some serious
weather, heavy rain, powerful winds, and the occasional hailstorm that sends everyone scrambling to protect their cars. But while you're
thinking about securing outdoor furniture and checking your gutters, there's another crucial part of your home that deserves attention: your
solar system.
Here's how to storm-proof your solar setup and actually use it to your advantage when wild weather hits.
When storms roll through South-East Queensland, power outages often follow. Here's something that surprises many solar owners: if you only have panels without a battery, your system will shut down during a blackout, even on a sunny day. That's because standard grid-connected systems are designed to switch off when the grid goes down for safety reasons.
The solution? A solar battery.
With a battery system like the Tesla Powerwall, Sungrow, or AlphaESS, you can store excess solar power during the day and keep your
essential appliances running when the grid fails. Your fridge stays cold, your lights stay on, and you can charge your phone to stay
connected.
The timing couldn't be better to invest in battery storage. Thanks to the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, Queensland homeowners can save up to $18,600 on a new battery system. With storm season upon us and electricity prices continuing to rise, there's never been a more compelling time to add backup power to your home. The rebate makes the investment far more accessible, and you'll have the peace of mind knowing you're prepared for whatever weather comes your way.
After severe weather passes through, it's worth giving your solar system a once-over. Hail damage, while rare thanks to modern panel durability, can occur during particularly severe storms. Even small cracks in panels can impact performance and potentially lead to bigger issues down the track.
At iinergy, our Master Electrician technicians are on call for emergency solar repairs when you need them most. If you've noticed a drop in performance after a storm, don't wait, addressing damage early prevents further deterioration and ensures you're not losing out on potential savings.
Here's what most people don't realise: even if your panels survive a storm unscathed, they're likely covered in leaves, dirt, and debris blown up by strong winds. Remember, dirty panels can cause a performance loss of 20% or more!
Professional panel cleaning from iinergy uses the latest products to safely restore your panels to sparkling condition. We offer cleaning packages starting from $220 for up to 24 panels, or you can combine cleaning with a full system service to ensure everything's working at full capacity.
Storm season doesn't have to mean power worries or reduced solar performance. With a battery for backup, prompt repairs when needed, and regular cleaning, your solar system can be your greatest ally when wild weather strikes.
Ready to storm-proof your solar? Contact iinergy on 1300 446 374 to discuss battery options and take advantage of the Cheaper Home Batteries Program before it's too late.
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