Solarfix Frequently Asked Questions

Solar PV, or Photovoltaic, refers to solar panels that generate electricity from daylight. It's an electrical system that acts as a secondary power source for your property, offering cleaner and more cost-effective energy.

Solar panels in Northern Ireland offer numerous benefits, including reduced energy bills and a lower carbon footprint. Solarfix specializes in providing top-notch solar solutions tailored to Northern Ireland's unique needs.

Solar thermal panels heat water using tubes on your roof, but Solarfix primarily focuses on more efficient and cost-effective Solar PV electric solar panels for electricity generation . Which may also be able to heat your water.

Made from semiconducting materials, solar panels generate an electrical charge when exposed to daylight. The generated direct current (DC) is converted into alternating current (AC) by the solar inverter for use in homes and businesses.

No, solar panels work on photons, the basic element of daylight, making them effective even on cloudy days.

Solar home storage batteries store excess solar power generated during daylight hours for later use, providing energy during the night or cloudy periods. Click here for more information on batteries we recommend.

A solar battery allows you to store solar power generated during the day, for use when the sun goes down. This gives you greater flexibility. Solar panels will work without a battery – this means you have to try and use the solar power as it is generated during the daylight hours. When the sun goes down, you are back to buying all your power from the grid. Solarfix will advise you honestly on whether you need a battery.

Solar immersion heater controllers utilize excess solar electricity to heat water, reducing the need for fossil fuels and increasing energy efficiency. Click here for more information on immersion heater solar diverter.

Solar Electric Car EV Chargers use surplus solar electricity to charge electric vehicles, contributing to greener transportation and potentially saving on grid electricity costs. Click here for more information on the EV charger we supply & fit.

An on-grid solar system is connected to the mains grid, allowing you to use both solar-generated power (with or without batteries) and grid power as and when required. In contrast, an off-grid system operates independently, relying solely on stored solar energy - without any type of grid connection. Solarfix are specialists in off grid – click here to discuss.

Yes, it's possible but not always financially viable as an off-grid system is expensive. An off-grid is best suited to those who cannot get an affordable mains grid connection due to location etc. Having a grid connection, minimal bills, is often the most cost-effective solution, Solarfix can advise you honestly.

Yes. Solar panels are one of the cheapest forms of electricity and most customers will at least double their investment within the panel warranty period.

The cost of solar panels in Northern Ireland varies based on factors like system size and additional components such as batteries. Systems without batteries range from £ 3,950 to £ 6,500. Batteries will add £ 2,000+ depending on their size. Solarfix offers free surveys to provide accurate, no-obligation quotes.

Solar panels require minimal maintenance as they have no moving parts. Regular monitoring ensures optimal performance. If issues arise, you know we at Solarfix, your trusted solar panel installer in Northern Ireland, is here to assist.

Solar Panels require very little maintenance since they lack moving parts, eliminating the need for oil, grease, or regular servicing. Our recommendation is a "light touch" and reactive approach.

Typically, Solar Panels are self-cleaning due to their angled installation and ample rain in Northern Ireland. Most panels remain free from heavy soiling.

Perform a light clean using a soft brush and lukewarm water. Exercise caution by avoiding heavy brushes and chemicals. Ensure safety by steering clear of electronics and cabling , or using a professional contractor who is familiar with solar panel safety. There will be live electrical wires running behind the solar panels - take care and only use professionals who understand and are familiar with solar panels.

While some prefer an annual cleaning routine, most clean reactively when needed, not routinely.

It's a common misconception. The primary reason is often a malfunctioning monitoring app, not actual panel issues. Key points to consider:

• Monitoring App Dependency: The app relies on the inverter's internet connection. If you've changed routers or experienced internet problems, it may disrupt data flow, but the panels likely still function.

• Power Off: Check if the power feeding the panels is off at the PV isolator or in your fuse board.

• Refer to your handover pack or click here for watch for our YouTube video for guidance.

1. Check Handover Pack: Consult your customer handover pack or visit our website/YouTube channel for guidance on reconnecting inverters to the internet.

2. Power Failure: Panels might seem inactive due to accidental or deliberate power failure or grid issues. Follow instructions in the handover pack to rectify.

Contact Solarfix: If the app is online, and all power components are functional, reach out to us for assistance. Our robust support team is dedicated to resolving our customers concerns promptly.

The issue is often related to the monitoring app's dependence on a stable internet connection for data flow. Key points to consider:

• Internet Connection: If you've changed or moved your router or experienced internet problems, the data flow may be disrupted. However, your solar panels continue to generate power.

• Monitoring App vs. Panel Functionality: The monitoring app is a tool for data visualization; its malfunction doesn't imply panel malfunction. The panels operate independently of the app.

Follow these steps for a solution:

1. Review Handover Pack: Solarfix customers can refer to the handover pack or visit our website/YouTube channel for guidance on reconnecting inverters to the internet.

2. Check Internet Connection: Ensure a stable internet connection for your inverter/device. Address any changes in routers or internet-related issues.

3. Solar Panels Still Operational: Even if the app/data is not working, your solar panels are likely still generating power.

If the problem persists, reach out to Solarfix. We're committed to helping our customers troubleshoot and ensure your monitoring app provides accurate data for a seamless solar experience.

Yes, for every 1,000 kWh of solar electricity generated, you save over 200 kg of carbon per year. For an average system that is over 25,000kg during the 25 year panel warranty period.

Solar panels work with daylight, not just direct sunlight. Solarfix can find suitable solutions for various roof orientations or even ground mounting.

Primarily based in Northern Ireland, Solarfix offers free consultations in the area. Large-scale commercial work is also undertaken in the South of Ireland and the UK Mainland.

Most domestic systems are completed in a day, with larger installations requiring an additional day for commissioning. Larger commercial systems will take longer but this will be discussed with you at proposal.

Solarfix handles paperwork, builds monitoring apps, and provides a full handover pack. Ongoing support is always available. We also appreciate a great google review once installed!

Yes, Solarfix offers a turnkey package, handling all paperwork, NIE requirements, and monitoring.

Yes, Solarfix values referrals, offering £100 for both the referrer and the referred. Please ensure the referee advises of the referrers name and first line of address on the initial call so your reward can be processed.

We offer a lot of partnerships / collaboration opportunities. We offer discount to employees of businesses we fit, discounts to sports clubs member etc. Get in touch with us to discuss a possible partnership or collaboration.