R W Coulthard Electrical Services PTY LTD

What are the advantages of a micro inverter over a DC string inverter system why are micro inverters safer than string inverters.

As mentioned before in the micro inverter system each panel is a separate PV system so shading does not effect the whole system only the panels effected by the shading. In a micro system it runs on AC power at 230 volts so there is no dangerous DC voltages running through your roof or walls. The AC voltage is protected by a circuit breaker and will turn off if there is a fault. The DC system has no protection and will not turn off if a cable burns or shorts out.

How do I work out how many Kilowatts I will need to install to cut my energy account down?

At R W Coulthard Electrical Services Pty Ltd, we will help you in this process & design a system that will give you the maximum benefit. This will involve meeting with you onsite & inspecting the roof space to see if it is suitable for solar. We will then look over your energy accounts & work out your usage and how you use it. Once we have achieved, we can work out the best sized PV system to suit your requirements & to fit your roof space. Then a costing can be completed for the installation.

Once I have decided to go ahead with installing a Solar system how long does it take?

Once you have decided to go ahead it will depend on the size of the system. If it is a commercial solar and pre approval is required then it can take up to 3 to 4 weeks. If it is under 4.6 Kw then no approval is needed and the process can start straight away. A system under 4.6 Kw can take anywhere from 1 to 3 days depending on size and roof access. Once installed we complete all the applications and submit all the paper work. From start to finish around 2 to 3 weeks.

What does PV stand for?

PV stands for photovoltaic. This is the technology whereby solar cells are used to convert sunlight into electricity.

One of my low voltage down lights goes off and then comes back on after a while?

Recessed down lights are supplied with a thermal overload on the transformer. This is to protect the ceiling space from excessive temperatures, which could cause a fire. This could mean that the transformer has been covered by insulation. You need to call an electrician to check the fitting to make sure there is no fire risk.

I keep having to replace bulbs in my recessed low voltage down lights as after while they flicker and then go off?

Recessed lights are subject to high running temperatures. This, in turn, causes heat at the pins of the lamp holder. After time the lamp holder's terminals become loose and cause the pins to become hot and burn out. When you remove the lamp, look at the pins on the bulb, and if they are a dark burnt looking colour then the lamp holder lead or fitting needs to be replaced.

What is the best location for my solar PV system? Do I have to worry about trees or objects shading the PV system?

The best location for the solar system is to face as close to north as possible. It is also better to be mounted at around 20 to 30 deg tilt. At R W Coulthard Electrical Services Pty Ltd, we recommend using Enphase micro inverters with a high quality panel (Suntech). With micro inverters, each panel is a separate PV system so if one panel is shaded it only effect that panel. With the traditional string system, all panels are in series if one panel is effected it will bring the whole system down.

What are the different types of solar panels?

There are three types of solar panels available, they are monocrystalline, polycrystalline & thin film. At R W Coulthard Electrical Services Pty Ltd, we use mono & poly panels. As they are the most efficient and require the least roof space. Mono have been used for over 50 years, they are highly efficient and have a slow degradation rate. Poly panels are similar to mono however their performance remains steadfast at higher temperatures, making them suitable for use in Australia.

Do you install ceiling fans?

Yes, we can install your ceiling fan or ceiling fan light. We carry everything needed to install a ceiling fan. If you have purchased your own fan, it can be done straight away or we can also supply you with a new fan.

Do you offer electrical inspections?

Yes. We can complete a thorough inspection of your property for both maintenance and potential safety issues. It is highly recommended that if you are purchasing a new property that you call us to complete an inspection of the wiring. This will save you hidden problems later on that could cost you money.