Posts By Anthony Bennett On SolarQuotes

Backup Your Blackout Plans. Why Hybrid Solar Needs A Bypass Switch

September 5, 2023 2024-12-09T09:51:37 by 30 Comments
Hybrid solar power system with bypass switch

The green parts are thanks to SolarQuotes. In normal operation, grid energy goes in the hybrid inverter through the red line, out along the brown line, and into the home’s essential circuits via the green line. If the inverter fails, it can simply be bypassed with the green switch.

Home batteries used to be a niche market for tech enthusiasts and those needing emergency power. But as battery-backed hybrid solar systems proliferate, the solar industry is learning that even the best plans can go awry. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Battery Storage

Should You Install An Industrial Socket For Home EV Charging?

August 31, 2023 2024-04-10T10:36:34 by 51 Comments
EV charging and electrical sockets

Standard Australian socket and plug for 32 amps 400 volts 3 phase power.

TL;DR: Hell, yes.

In Australia, the wall socket pictured above is your go-to option for a 3-phase electricity supply, while this one is for single-phase: [Read more…]

Filed Under: EV Chargers

Copper Hot Water Systems & Solar: A Timeless Combination

August 25, 2023 2024-10-02T10:31:28 by 32 Comments
Hot water copper tank

Finally, something that’s genuinely German in the solar industry… sheet copper is no longer made in Australia, sadly.

If we’ve noticed anything of late in the SolarQuotes office, it’s that water heating isn’t just a mundane task; it’s a subject passionately debated and deeply entrenched. Who would have thought? [Read more…]

Filed Under: Solar Hot Water

Talking Solar To Builders – We Need Better Thinking From the Roof Down

August 21, 2023 2024-01-29T10:23:28 by 26 Comments

Solar panels and Australian roof designs

As a qualified solar electrician, roof plumber, licensed contractor and supervisor, I have seen the ugly truth behind Australian roofs first-hand. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Energy Efficiency

Can You Install A Smart Solar Meter On A Strata Townhouse? YES!

August 16, 2023 2024-04-15T16:50:31 by 4 Comments

Solar smart meter for townhouses

Smart Meter Installation Woes in Sydney. 

Recently we wrote about an instance in Queensland where a solar meter changeover on a detached suburban home had gone sideways. As it happens, another example that caught my attention involved multiple meters in a strata-owned switchboard. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Solar Installation

Solar’s Hidden Metering Cost – And Tips To Avoid It

August 10, 2023 2023-08-10T08:30:03 by 11 Comments
old queensland meter board

Inaccessible, no hinge, ceramic fuses, disintegrating chipboard, duct tape! This is a hamburger with the lot.

Solar Electricity Meters – The Situation Is Unhinged [Read more…]

Filed Under: Solar Installation

Are Hot Water Heat Pumps All They’re Cracked Up to Be?

August 9, 2023 2025-03-12T10:40:05 by 54 Comments

simplified schematic of heat pump hot water operation

Last week, I extolled the virtues of heat pumps, lauding their unparalleled efficiency. As promised, it’s time to investigate why these newfangled appliances might not be as splendid as they seem. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Solar Hot Water

Hot Water Heat Pumps: Choose Your Refrigerant & Brand Wisely!

August 2, 2023 2025-02-27T18:18:34 by 92 Comments

reclaim heat pump

Having observed countless passionate discussions in various online forums on hot water heat pumps, it’s clear to me that people care – a lot – about this seemingly mundane subject.

[Read more…]

Filed Under: Solar Hot Water

Sungrow Hybrid Inverter Review: A Deep Dive into the SH5.0RS

August 1, 2023 2023-09-06T16:09:38 by 55 Comments

sungrow sh5.0rs inverter installed

This post is part of our reviews of hybrid solar inverters – which when paired with a battery – can be good Tesla Powerwall alternatives. Here, I’m taking a closer look at the Sungrow SH5.0RS. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Solar Inverters

Alpha ESS Battery Review: An Unforgettable Installation Experience

July 28, 2023 2023-07-28T19:30:19 by 24 Comments

Installation: Sure Solar

The Alpha ESS battery: hailed by many, criticised by others. Established in China in 2012, Alpha’s surge in popularity across the Australian market has many of us asking if these batteries are a fantastic bargain or asking for trouble.

Through my journey of installing various models, including the SMILE5 series, I’ve witnessed both the charm and the hiccups. Join me in my recount of an installation experience that I’ll never forget, and find out if the Alpha ESS is worth your time and money. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Battery Storage
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