Month: October 2024

What Is the Cost Of Installing Skylights? The Factors that Influence Price

Posted on by seo

A skylight adds light and comfort to your home. In most cases, aside from a few minor electrical functions available on modern skylights (such as dimmers), a skylight provides this light with little to no electricity costs. As a result, they are a popular option for Australian homes.

When it comes to buying and installing a skylight, you need to consider two factors. Firstly, the cost of the skylight that suits your needs, and secondly, the cost of installation. The cost of purchasing your skylight and materials will vary greatly depending on the type of skylight you choose. Lets look at some prices for traditional and tubular skylights.

Traditional fixed skylights range from $600 to $1,100. Opening skylights range from $1,100 to $3,000. To combat heat transfers into the room these skylights need blinds to keep out heat. The blinds add $600 each to the fixed skylights, and $300 to the opening skylights. So your basic smallest tradition fixed skylight all up is $1,200.

A 250mm diameter tubular skylights is around $700. The larger 400mm diameter tubular skylights are about $1,000 and no blinds are required as they transfer minimal heat.

Let’s take a look at the other notable expense – the cost of skylight installation.

Factors that influence the skylight installation price

When you’re considering skylight installation in your home, many factors can affect the cost. Typically, the major influencing factors are:

  • The type of skylight you choose – tubular or traditional
  • The scope and complexity of the installation, traditional skylights are complex to install, tubular skylights are easy
  • Roof accessibility and height – are scaffolds or cherry pickers needed?

All of these things will affect the overall cost of your skylight installation, so they must be considered before making a purchase.

The type of skylight you choose

There are several different types of skylights on the market today, including:

Within each of these types, you will also find several variations; for example, they may have a dome on the roof instead of a flat surface. They may feature dimmers or various types of diffusers. Fixed skylight need to have blinds to control heat As such, all skylights are different, and the installation process will also differ.

The scope of the installation

When it comes to skylights installation, we’re effectively talking about labour costs for a tubular skylight. However traditional skylights also need framing timber, plastering and painting. A tubular skylight will be much cheaper to install than a traditional fixed or opening skylight design.

While this is important to keep in mind, it’s usually more beneficial to buy the skylight that most suits your home. Saving money on installation is great, but if it results in your home not getting enough light, then the whole process becomes somewhat ineffective.

Roof accessibility

Roof access is another important factor when determining the cost of installing a skylight. As we mentioned, it all comes down to labour costs. Your installation expert needs access to your roof, which can be easier or more difficult depending on the height, pitch and type of roof you have.

While a qualified installer should be able to access most roofs safely, you also need to consider access to the roof cavity. This is especially important for tubular skylights that run from the roof, through your roof cavity and down to your ceiling. In most cases, this isn’t a huge problem, but if there are complexities with roof access, the job will take longer and therefore cost more.

How much does a skylight installation cost?

As you can see from the factors above, there are several things that determine the overall skylights installation cost. For that reason, it’s impossible to give an exact figure. Every home is different, as is every skylight. While we can’t provide exact figures, here are some of the average skylights installation costs depending on the type you install:

  • Tubular skylights – Approx $200 per skylight. A skilled technician can install the skylight in a couple of hours
  • Traditional Fixed or Opening skylights – are complex to install and can cost $1,500 to $2,000 each. Different trades are needed over several days as each skylight needs a shaft the size of the skylight to be built to transfer the light from the roof to the room.
  • Solar/LED skylights – Approx $200

Always choose reputable, skilled professionals to install your skylight

Regardless of the cost, we recommend always choosing skilled professionals to install your skylight. Many people attempt a DIY skylight installation, and the results are frequently not as they expect. Installing skylights is a speciality job and is best done by a professional. For the sake of saving money on installation, it’s not worth the risk of ruining both your new skylight and potentially parts of your roof.

Looking for the best skylights installation in Sydney?

SolarBright is the number one choice for the best skylights Sydney has to offer. Our superior, state-of-the-art skylight technology and designs give you plenty of options to find one that suits your needs. Contact us today for a quote, and we’ll outline the costs of your new skylights installation.

Read Also:
An Excellent Alternative to Traditional Skylights
How To Choose The Right Sized Solar Power System

An Excellent Alternative to Traditional Skylights

Posted on by seo

Traditional skylights have been a go-to for homeowners looking to brighten their spaces. However they have drawbacks like heat loss in winter, heat gain in summer, and more complex and expensive installations. An excellent alternative option is now available: tubular skylights. Specifically, the MaxLight Tubular Skylights from SolarBright offer innovative, energy-efficient solutions that outperform traditional skylights in several key areas.

Enhanced Light Capture and Distribution

MaxLight Tubular Skylights feature cutting-edge technology designed to capture sunlight through a rooftop dome and channel it through highly reflective tubes into your home. This advanced design maximises the amount of natural light that reaches your living space, regardless of the weather. Even on cloudy days, the system captures ample sunlight to keep your home illuminated.

Compared to traditional skylights, tubular skylights provide a more even light distribution, preventing harsh shadows or glare and ensuring a softer, more pleasant glow throughout the room.

Energy Efficiency and Temperature Control

Traditional skylights can allow heat to enter during summer and escape during winter, affecting the overall energy efficiency of your home. MaxLight Tubular Skylights are designed to minimise this issue. The MaxLight skylight is designed with a triple lens diffuser to minimise heat loss or gain through the skylight, making it a perfect option for homes aiming to maintain energy efficiency while enjoying natural light.

Additionally, tubular skylights help reduce the need for electric lighting during the day, cutting down on energy costs and supporting eco-friendly living.

Flexible and Less Complex Installations

One major limitation of traditional skylights is their requirement for direct roof access, which makes it difficult to install them in some tighter spaces like hallways, bathrooms, or laundries. MaxLight Tubular Skylights offer far more flexibility in installation, thanks to their compact design and adjustable tubing.

A traditional skylight installation is complex and takes several days, often spread over a couple of weeks due to using three different trades. The install will cost up to several thousand dollars. A tubular skylight install takes one technician a couple of hours and will be around $250.

Whether you’re looking to brighten a dark corridor, a bathroom with no natural light, or other rooms tubular skylights can bring natural light daylight into hard-to-reach places.

For commercial applications, SolarBright also offers tailored solutions with their Commercial Skylights, perfect for larger spaces like offices and warehouses.

Minimal Maintenance and Maximum Durability

Traditional skylights often require regular cleaning and maintenance to stay efficient, especially in areas prone to condensation or dirt build-up. Tubular Skylights are virtually maintenance-free, thanks to their sealed design that prevents dirt, dust, and debris from entering the system.

Additionally, SolarBright provides a range of Skylight Accessories and Options, allowing you to further customise and enhance the performance of your tubular skylight with features such as dimmers and diffusers for different lighting needs.

Reduced UV Exposure

Another issue with traditional skylights is their tendency to let harmful UV rays into your home, potentially causing fading or damage to furniture and flooring. MaxLight Tubular Skylights prevent this by filtering out UV rays while still delivering bright, natural light. This added protection makes them a great option for preserving the integrity of your home’s interior while enjoying the benefits of daylight.

Why Choose Tubular Skylights?

Traditional skylights, while popular, come with a range of limitations— less flexible and more complex (and expensive) installation, more heat grain in summer, heat loss in winter, and higher maintenance requirements. MaxLight Tubular skylights offer an excellent alternative, delivering enhanced natural light distribution, greater energy efficiency, and flexible installation options that work in a variety of spaces. If you’re looking for an economical and efficient skylight solution, SolarBright has a range of tubular skylights to suit your needs.

If you’re ready to brighten your home with the excellent alternative to traditional skylights, explore the range of MaxLight Tubular Skylights or contact SolarBright to discuss the right solution for your home or business.

Read Also:
Cut Summer AC Costs with a Solar Panel System: A Smart Energy Solution
Why Solar Power Is The Healthy Choice For Your Family

Cut Summer AC Costs with a Solar Panel System: A Smart Energy Solution

Posted on by seo

When summer hits and the temperatures soar, the air conditioner runs overtime, driving up your electricity bills. One of the smartest ways to reduce these costs is by installing a solar panel system. Solar energy harnesses the abundant sunlight to power your home, and in sun-drenched Sydney, this makes even more sense. Here are the key reasons why installing solar panels can cut your summer AC costs while providing long-term benefits.

Beat Peak Hour Energy Prices

During summer, especially when the AC is in constant use, you’re likely to consume electricity during peak hours when grid rates are highest. Also remember peak “hour” now extends from 2pm to 10pm. By installing solar panels, you can produce your own energy during the day when the sun is at its peak, effectively avoiding some hours of those costly peak-hour tariffs. Solar panels allow you to power your air conditioning without relying on expensive grid electricity, leading to significant reductions in your overall energy costs.

Sydney residents, in particular, can benefit from solar energy production during the hot summer months when AC use is at its peak. By generating energy when the sun is shining, your solar power system offsets much of your AC’s power consumption, helping you avoid energy spikes in your bills.

Lower Your Carbon Footprint While Saving

Cutting down AC costs isn’t just about saving money; it’s also an opportunity to reduce your environmental impact. Air conditioning can account for a substantial portion of household energy use, especially in summer, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions. By powering your AC with a solar panel system, you reduce your home’s carbon footprint. Solar energy is renewable and emission-free, making it the eco-friendly choice for cooling your home during the sweltering summer months.

Tailor Your Solar System for Maximum Efficiency

The initial cost of solar panels Sydney is quite reasonable so investing in a tailored solar system ensures you maximise your savings in the long run. A custom solar panel system designed specifically for your energy consumption needs—especially those heavy summer AC demands—will ensure you generate enough electricity to cover those peak cooling periods. Solar panels can be installed with the consideration of your home’s roof space and the amount of energy you require to keep cool. By working with a reputable solar provider, you can find the perfect system to balance cost and efficiency, ensuring the best return on investment.

Government Incentives Make Solar Panels Affordable

In Sydney, solar panels are more affordable than ever thanks to government rebates and incentives. These programs can reduce the initial cost of solar panel installation, making it easier for homeowners to make the switch. Solar energy is a long-term solution, and with these financial benefits, you can enjoy both immediate savings on your energy bills and long-term reductions in summer cooling costs.

Pairing your solar system with government incentives also allows for greater financial feasibility when installing a solar panel system that can significantly cut down your reliance on the grid for cooling needs.

Pair Solar Panels with Energy Storage for Year-Round Benefits

For even greater savings, consider pairing your solar panel system with a solar battery. Solar batteries allow you to store excess energy produced during the day, which can then be used to power your AC system in the evening or during cloudy days. This combination ensures that you’re not relying on the grid for energy even when the sun isn’t shining. In a city like Sydney, where sunny days are plentiful, storing solar energy for later use can offer year-round benefits, not just in the summer.

A solar battery ensures that your cooling system remains cost-efficient throughout the day, even when your panels are no longer producing energy. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to further reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources.

Conclusion: Start Cutting Costs with SolarBright Today

With rising electricity prices and long, hot summers ahead, now is the perfect time to invest in solar panels. A well-designed solar panel system can help you save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and maintain comfortable temperatures in your home without the financial burden. At SolarBright, we offer top-tier solar panel systems tailored to meet your specific energy needs.

Ready to take control of your energy future? Contact SolarBright today and start enjoying the long-term savings of solar power this summer.

Read Also:
Top 5 Reasons to Consider Solar Battery Storage for Your Home
How To Purchase A Reliable Solar System

Top 5 Reasons to Consider Solar Battery Storage for Your Home

Posted on by seo

Imagine a future where energy bills are drastically reduced, power outages become a non-issue, and your home operates almost independently from the grid. This is exactly what solar battery storage offers, making it a must-have for modern Australian homes. As energy prices climb and the demand for energy security grows, installing a system basolar ttery can provide not only environmental benefits but also substantial financial savings. Here are five compelling reasons why solar battery storage could transform the way you power your home.

1. Energy Independence

Tired of relying on the grid for power? Solar battery storage systems can break that dependence. These systems store excess energy generated by your solar panels during the day, allowing you to use it later when the sun isn’t shining. Whether it’s in the evening or during a blackout, having a solar battery gives you control over your home’s energy use. This makes solar battery storage particularly appealing in regions prone to power outages. With a solar battery you can maintain electricity for essential appliances even during emergencies.

2. Reduce Electricity Bills

The primary reason homeowners invest in solar battery storage is to reduce electricity bills. Solar panels alone can lower your reliance on the grid during daylight hours, but pairing them with a solar system battery enables you to maximise those savings. Any unused solar energy produced during the day can be stored and used when electricity rates are higher, like in the evening. This not only slashes your power bill but also helps you avoid the fluctuating costs of traditional electricity suppliers. The long-term savings on energy bills more than justify the upfront cost of the battery system.

3. Maximise Solar Energy Use

Without a battery, excess energy your solar panels generate goes straight back to the grid. While you may get some credits from your energy retailer for exporting energy, it is less beneficial than using that energy yourself.The solar feed in tariffs are as low as 5c per kWh. Peak hour power costs (2pm to 10pm) can be as high as 48c per kWh. This means you need to export almost 10kWh of solar to pay for 1kWh at peak hour!

With a solar battery, you can capture and store this excess valuable energy for your own use. This ensures that none of the energy you generate goes to waste, making your solar system far more efficient. The Tesla Powerwall 2 is a prime example of a solar battery that allows you to store significant amounts of power while seamlessly managing your home’s energy flow.

4. Environmental Benefits

Solar battery storage isn’t just about saving money—it’s about reducing your carbon footprint as well. By using stored solar energy, you reduce your reliance on grid power, which is typically generated from burning fossil fuels. This helps decrease greenhouse gas emissions and supports Australia’s transition to cleaner energy sources. If living sustainably is important to you, investing in a solar battery is the easiest way to reduce your environmental impact. It’s a solution that aligns with growing global initiatives to combat climate change and promote renewable energy sources.

5. Increase Property Value

In today’s eco-conscious market, homes equipped with solar systems and solar battery storage are more attractive to potential buyers. Adding a solar panel battery can increase your home’s value, particularly in markets like Sydney, where sustainable living is becoming more popular. Homebuyers are increasingly looking for energy-efficient properties that offer long-term savings, and a solar system with a battery is a significant selling point. For homeowners, this is an added financial incentive, as installing solar storage not only saves on electricity bills but also boosts property resale value.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose SolarBright?

Solar battery storage offers energy independence, financial savings, and environmental benefits—all rolled into one powerful system. If you’re considering a solar upgrade, now is the perfect time to explore your options. SolarBright offers a range of cutting-edge battery solutions, including the popular Tesla Powerwall 2, designed to optimise your energy usage and maximise your solar investment.

Ready to take control of your energy future? Contact SolarBright today to learn more about how we can help you power your home efficiently with solar battery storage. Whether you’re upgrading your existing system or installing solar for the first time, our team of experts is here to provide personalised solutions that meet your energy needs. Get in touch now and start enjoying the benefits of solar power system today.

Read Also:
Tips for Maximising Your Solar Efficiency
What is the Best Orientation for Solar Panels?

Tips for Maximising Your Solar Efficiency

Posted on by seo

Installing solar panels in Australia is a fantastic way to cut down on energy costs while contributing to a more sustainable future. With Australia’s abundance of sunlight, solar energy systems can generate substantial power, making them a smart investment for homes and businesses alike. However, many people don’t realise that they can optimise their solar setup to reap even greater rewards.

Simply installing panels is the first step, but fine-tuning your energy usage and maintaining your system can help you maximise its efficiency, ensuring you get the most from your investment. Whether it’s adjusting your energy habits or keeping your panels in top condition, there are several strategies you can implement to boost your solar power performance.

Here are some practical tips to help you maximise your solar system’s efficiency and reduce your reliance on the grid.

Use More Energy During Daylight Hours

If you have an on-grid solar system—the most common setup—you only benefit from solar energy during daylight hours. While off-grid systems with solar batteries store excess energy for evening use, standard on-grid systems use solar power as it’s produced.

To maximise efficiency, try to use more energy during the day, reducing your reliance on the main grid at night and lowering your electricity bills. For instance, if you have appliances with timers, set them to run during the day. Washing machines and dishwashers can be loaded at night and programmed to run during peak solar hours.

Understanding when your panels produce the most energy is also important. For north-facing panels, this peak period is typically between 10 am and 2 pm. Scheduling appliance use during these hours helps you make the most of your solar power system.

Smarter Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling systems are major energy consumers, but with a bit of planning, you can run them more efficiently. If you’re out during the day, consider setting your air conditioner to run in the afternoon before you return. This way, your home is already cool in summer or warm in winter, and you can reduce energy consumption when the sun goes down.

By shifting your heating and cooling to daylight hours, you can utilise solar power and reduce your reliance on the grid in the evenings.

Stagger Appliance Use

Your solar system only produces a certain amount of energy at any given time. If you run several high-energy appliances simultaneously, your system may not generate enough power to cover the demand, causing you to draw energy from the grid.

To avoid this, try staggering the use of energy-hungry appliances. For example, avoid running the washing machine and dishwasher at the same time. Similarly, try not to use your dryer, oven, or shower at once. By spreading out your energy use, you can make better use of the solar power your system produces.

Clean Your Solar Panels Regularly

While solar panel efficiency naturally decreases over time, proper maintenance ensures that this decrease is minimal. However, if panels are not kept clean, you may notice a significant drop in energy production much sooner than expected.

Being outdoors, solar panels are exposed to the elements, leading to the buildup of dust, grime, and debris. Bird droppings and other obstructions can also reduce panel efficiency by covering cells and blocking sunlight.

To maintain optimal performance, it’s recommended to have your solar panels professionally cleaned at least once a year. Regular cleaning removes the dirt that hinders energy production and ensures your system operates at its best. While hosing down panels can help in a pinch, it’s no substitute for professional cleaning, which ensures the job is done safely and thoroughly.

Always Use CEC-Approved Installers

Choosing a Clean Energy Council (CEC) accredited installer is essential for ensuring your solar system is installed correctly and operates efficiently. CEC-approved retailers and installers adhere to strict ethical, honest, and transparent marketing practices, giving you confidence that you’re getting the right system for your needs.

Moreover, CEC-certified experts have an in-depth understanding of solar panel placement, ensuring your system is installed at the correct angle and orientation for maximum energy production. By using a CEC-approved installer like SolarBright, you can rest assured that your solar system is optimised for efficiency from day one.

And always remember you get what you pay for, there is a price to be paid for cheap solar.

Need More Information?

If you’re looking for advice on choosing the right solar panel system or need tips on getting the most from your current setup, contact the friendly team at SolarBright today. We offer high-quality solar products at competitive prices and always provide honest, expert advice. Contct us today to discover how much you could save with solar energy.

Read Also:
Understanding the Different Types of Solar Panels
Does My Solar Power System Require Regular Inspections?

Understanding the Different Types of Solar Panels

Posted on by seo

Solar energy has rapidly become a popular solution for businesses and homeowners seeking to lower their energy bills and contribute to a sustainable future. However, with various types of solar panels available, choosing the right one for your needs can be a bit overwhelming. This guide will help you understand the key types of solar panels, highlighting their unique benefits, including high-performance models like the Max Power Maximus MPS440NBB 440W and REC Alpha Pure-R 410W. Additionally, we will explore how commercial solar systems can provide substantial financial and environmental benefits for businesses.

1. Monocrystalline Solar Panels

Monocrystalline solar panels are among the most efficient types available today. They are made from a single crystal structure, which gives them a sleek appearance and allows for excellent energy conversion. The high efficiency of these panels makes them ideal for properties with limited roof space, where generating maximum power output from a small area is crucial.

Advantages:

  • High efficiency, often exceeding 20%, making them one of the top choices for homeowners and businesses aiming to get the most energy per square metre.
  • Long lifespan, with warranties often ranging between 25 to 30 years, providing peace of mind for the long-term investment.
  • Space-efficient design, perfect for properties where roof space is limited but energy needs are high.

Example: The Max Power Maximus MPS440NBB panel is a standout in this category, featuring N-Type cells and bifacial technology. With 22.53% efficiency, it is designed to perform exceptionally well in Australia’s harsh climate. Its dual glass construction also provides enhanced durability, making it one of the most reliable solar panels available.

2. Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline solar panels are manufactured using silicon fragments melted together. Poly panels were the most popular panels. While slightly less efficient than their monocrystalline counterparts, they offered a more cost-effective solution, which made them a popular choice for budget-conscious installations.They have now mostly been replaced by the monocrystalline panels and we see very few poly panels offered in the Australian market now.

3. Thin-Film Solar Panels

Thin-film solar panels are different from crystalline panels in both appearance and function. They are constructed by placing thin layers of photovoltaic material onto surfaces like glass, plastic, or metal. While they are less efficient than monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels, thin-film panels perform better in low-light conditions and are extremely versatile.

Advantages:

  • Lightweight and adaptable, which makes them suitable for a range of unconventional installations.
  • Good performance in low-light and high-temperature environments, ensuring consistent energy production in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
  • Their flexibility makes them ideal for large-scale projects or installations on surfaces that may not support heavier crystalline panels.

4. Max Power Maximus MPS440NBB 440W Panel

The Max Power Maximus MPS440NBB solar panel represents a premium option for those seeking high performance at an affordable price. This panel is designed with cutting-edge N-Type cells and bifacial technology, allowing it to capture sunlight from both sides for increased power generation.

Key Features:

  • 22.53% efficiency, one of the highest in the market, ensures optimal energy production even in limited spaces.
  • Dual glass construction provides extra durability, especially in harsh climates, making it an excellent choice for long-term use in Australia.
  • 30-year warranty, guaranteeing 89% power retention even after three decades, ensuring long-term reliability and savings.

5. REC Alpha Pure-R 410W Solar Panel

The REC Alpha Pure-R 410W solar panel employs Heterojunction Technology (HJT), a cutting-edge method that combines the benefits of crystalline silicon and thin-film technologies. This unique combination delivers enhanced efficiency and longevity, with a panel efficiency of 21.2%.

Key Features:

  • 25-year warranties covering both product and performance, ensuring reliable operation over the long term.
  • 92% power retention after 25 years, making it one of the high-performing panels over time.
  • HJT technology reduces degradation, allowing for higher performance in high-temperature conditions.

6. Commercial Solar Systems

Commercial solar installations have become an essential tool for businesses looking to reduce operational costs while protecting themselves from rising energy prices. With electricity costs rising sharply, commercial solar systems offer substantial savings, and in many cases, the energy savings can cover the system’s cost within just a few years.

Key Benefits of Commercial Solar Systems:

  • Solar systems often pay for themselves through savings on electricity bills, leading to cash flow-positive outcomes for most businesses.
  • Protection from rising energy costs, particularly after the recent 21% increase in electricity prices for small businesses in New South Wales, makes solar an even more attractive investment.
  • Environmental impact: Installing solar panels helps businesses reduce their carbon footprint, improving green credentials and boosting their appeal to eco-conscious customers.

How to Choose the Right Solar Panel for Your Needs

When choosing the right solar panel for your home or business, consider the following factors:

  1. Roof Space: If your roof space is limited, opting for high output and high-efficiency panels like the Max Power Maximus will maximise your energy production.
  2. Warranty: Select a panel with long warranties. Panels have 2 separate warranties. The product warranty covers materials and workmanship and the performance warranty covers output over time. Pick a penal with at leat 25 or preferably 30 years product and performance warranties.
  3. Durability and Climate: For homes or businesses in harsher climates, selecting panels like the Max Power Maximus or REC Alpha, which are built to withstand extreme conditions, is essential for long-term durability.
  4. Visual Appearance: The look of the panel is an important consideration for many people. Panels with all dark dells and black frames are visually please complement modern Australian house design.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking at a residential or commercial solar system, understanding the different types of solar panels can help you make the best decision for your energy needs. From homeowners looking to cut energy bills to businesses seeking long-term financial and environmental benefits, there’s a solar panel suited for every requirement.

Explore SolarBright’s solar power solutions today, and contact us to get expert advice on the perfect solar power system for your property.

Read Also:
3 Ways Tubular Daylighting Devices Protect the Environment
How Do Skylights Work? All About Skylight Installation