Maximising Solar Efficiency

Renovating Your Home with Existing Solar Panels

Renovating your home is an exciting venture, and if you've already invested in solar panels, you have an excellent foundation for an energy-efficient and sustainable home. In this article, we'll explore the ways homeowners can renovate their homes with existing solar panels, addressing common questions about the process.

Before you start tearing down walls or ripping up carpets, we recommend listening to an interview Managing Director Sam Gardel did with Bluebird, as he talks through what to look out for when renovating or building a new home. Listen to the podcast, or read on for his tips. 

First things first, does having solar increase house value?

Yes, having solar panels can increase the value of your home. A study by Origin Energy found that homebuyers are consistently willing to pay more for a property with solar panels. In fact, more than three-quarters of Australians (77%) believe that a home with solar panels is more valuable than a property without.

Solar panels not only provide energy savings for the current homeowner but also appeal to environmentally conscious buyers. To get the most out of this value increase, it's essential to maintain your solar panels and showcase their benefits when putting your home on the market.

To enhance the value of your home further, consider integrating more solar panels into your renovation plans so the system can keep up with your additional energy needs. A reputable solar provider like us here at Gardel Electrical & Solar can guide you on maximising the benefits of your existing solar setup into your renovation plans.

Secondly, I’ve got an old system, so is it worth upgrading old solar panels?

The decision to upgrade old solar panels depends on factors such as the age of the panels, their condition, and the advancements in solar technology. In some cases, upgrading to newer, more efficient panels can result in increased energy production and greater long-term savings. If your panels are more than a decade old, it might be worth consulting with us to assess whether an upgrade is a cost-effective solution for your specific situation.

Can I upgrade and add to my home solar system?

Yes, you can upgrade your home solar system to meet your changing energy needs or take advantage of newer technologies. Upgrading may involve adding more solar panels, incorporating energy storage solutions like batteries, or integrating smart technologies for improved energy management.

Before upgrading, assess your current energy consumption, and consult with professionals to determine the most suitable upgrades for your home. Whether you're looking to increase your energy independence or adopt the latest solar innovations, Gardel Electrical & Solar can guide you through the process.

Continue reading below for our renovating tips

Window placement can impact your home’s solar efficiency

Renovating with Solar Panels Tips: 

1. The first step in renovating your home with solar panels is to consult with a professional solar panel technician (us!). We can evaluate your existing solar panel system to determine if it is still in good working order and assess any potential impact the renovation may have. 

2. We can also provide recommendations for any changes or upgrades needed to ensure that your solar panels continue to function optimally. 

3. When planning additions to your roof, such as new rooms, it is important to consider the placement of your solar panels. You want to ensure that the solar panels are not obstructed or shaded by any new structures, as this can significantly reduce their efficiency.

4. When adding new electrical systems or appliances, such as a swimming pool or an EV charger, it is important to assess the impact on your solar panel system. We’ll help you determine the additional energy requirements and recommend any upgrades necessary to meet this demand.

5. Renovations to the exterior of your home, such as new windows or changes to the exterior, can also impact your solar panels. These changes can affect the amount of sunlight that reaches your panels, affecting their performance. Our team will assess the impact of these changes and recommend any adjustments necessary to your solar panel system.

6. Finally, it is important to consider using energy-efficient materials and appliances when renovating your home with solar panels. This can include low-E windows, energy-efficient lighting, and energy-efficient appliances. These upgrades not only help to reduce your energy costs but also help to maximise the efficiency of your solar panel system.

Adding a pool to your home can drastically increase your solar consumption and should be considered when renovating

Get in touch with our solar experts to evaluate your existing system, consider the impact of new additions, use energy-efficient materials, and upgrade the system if necessary to meet increased energy demands. With these tips in mind, you can renovate your home with confidence and reap the benefits of both a beautiful home and clean energy.