Residential Solar FAQ

Solar System Performance & Efficiency

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Does solar work on a cloudy day?

Yes — solar panels still produce electricity in cloudy or foggy weather, just at a reduced level. Expect around 25% of normal output, depending on cloud thickness.

How long do solar panels last?

Solar panels typically last 25–30+ years.

  • Performance degradation: Around 0.5–1% per year
    After 25 years:
    Usually still producing 75–87.5% of original output
    Warranties: Most brands offer 25–30-year performance warranties
    Durability:
    Designed for harsh weather; proper installation helps maximise lifespan.
How long does it take to pay off a solar system?

This depends on your energy usage and system size. Most DMAK customers see payback around 6 years, sometimes faster if usage is high and the system is well-matched to the home.

How often should solar panels be cleaned?

At least twice a year. Dirty panels can lose up to 20% efficiency, so regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.

How do I check my solar system’s monitoring and performance?

You can track live and historical data via the app or website provided by your inverter manufacturer.

Can I increase the size of my solar system later?

Yes — if your inverter is oversized. Example: A 5.0 kW Fronius inverter with 3 kW of panels allows more panels to be added later (as long as roof space allows).

How efficient are modern solar panels compared to older ones?

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Do solar panels get less efficient over time?

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Does roof angle or direction affect performance?

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Will shading impact my solar production?

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Can solar power my home at night?

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How does temperature affect solar production?

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Hardware, Installation & Power Supply

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Can I run my EV charger on solar power?

Yes — your EV charger can run on solar power. With the right setup, excess solar can go directly into charging your vehicle, reducing grid usage and saving money.

How long is the warranty on panels, inverters, and batteries?

Solar Panels

  • Product warranty: 10–25 years
  • Performance warranty: 25–30 years

Inverters

  • String inverters: 5–12 years (extendable to 20)\
  • Microinverters: 10–25 years

Batteries

  • 5–15 years or 6,000–10,000 cycles

Lithium-ion: typically 10 years with 70–80% capacity retention

Will I have power during a power cut?

Yes — but only if you have a battery.
Without a battery, your system shuts down for safety during outages.

Fronius PV Point option: A dedicated outlet that becomes live during a power cut only when the sun is shining — ideal if you want limited backup without installing full batteries.

How long does a solar installation take?

Most residential installs take 1–2 days. After installation, an independent electrical inspector signs off the system to meet NZ regulations.

Is there any extra cost when installing solar?

DMAK includes everything except the import/export meter (installed by your power retailer). This costs around $150, billed directly on your power account.

What is the process of solar panel installation and how long does it take?

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How do solar panels work?

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Will solar be worth it for my home?

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What type of inverter is best for my property?

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Do I need a battery with my solar system?

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Can solar be installed on any roof type?

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What maintenance does the hardware require?

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How noisy are inverters and batteries?

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Will solar panels damage my roof?

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Financial, Exporting & Energy Use

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What happens to my excess solar power?

Any unused electricity is sent back to the grid, and you receive a monthly credit from your retailer, this helps offset your power bill.

What lending or finance options are available for solar/batteries?

Bank green loans: 0–1% interest

MTF Finance: Can finance your solar system with flexible terms

How much can solar reduce my monthly power bill?

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What is the difference between net metering and buy-back rates?

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How do power company export rates work?

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Can solar help protect me from rising electricity prices?

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What is the expected return on investment (ROI)?

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Are there any government rebates or incentives for solar?

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How do I compare the cost of solar vs staying on grid-only power?

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Can I claim solar as a business expense if used for home-office?

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 Batteries, Backup & Home Energy Management

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Do I need a battery with my solar system?

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How long do solar batteries last?

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How much battery storage does my home need?

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Can my solar battery power the whole house during an outage?

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How long will a battery run my essential appliances?

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Can I add a battery later?

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What’s the difference between lithium-ion and other battery types?

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How safe are home solar batteries?

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What is the difference between grid-tied, hybrid, and off-grid systems?

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Can I integrate smart home energy management with my solar system?

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How does charging and discharging affect battery lifespan?

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Choosing a Solar Provider & Post-Installation Support

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Why should I choose DMAK Electrical for my solar installation?

At DMAK Electrical, we’re more than just electricians – we’re your partners in powering a sustainable future. Here’s why you can count on us:

Expertise You Can Rely On
With years of experience and a team of qualified professionals, we ensure your solar system is designed and installed to perfection.

Sustainability-Focused
We’re passionate about helping you reduce your carbon footprint while saving on energy costs.

End-to-End Service
From consultation to installation and ongoing support, we’re with you every step of the way.

Customer Satisfaction
Our track record of happy clients speaks for itself. We tailor every solution to suit your unique needs.

Make the switch to solar with confidence – trust DMAK Electrical to light the way!

What aftercare or support do I receive once my system is installed?

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Do you provide system monitoring assistance if something goes wrong?

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What happens if my inverter stops working

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Do you offer servicing for systems not installed by DMAK Electrical?

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How often does my system need a professional service?

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What should I do if my solar production seems low?

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What brands do you recommend and why?

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How do you size a solar system for my home?

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What guarantees do you provide on workmanship?

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