Frequently Asked Questions

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Savings after 25 years on solar
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SOLAR FAQs

Switching to solar is a big decision, and we know you’ll have questions along the way. From installation timeframes to warranties and maintenance, our goal is to give you clear answers so you can feel confident about making the move to clean, reliable energy.

Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity through photovoltaic (PV) cells. That electricity is then passed through an inverter, which converts it into usable power for your home. Any extra power you don’t use can either be stored in a battery (if installed) or sent back into the grid, helping lower your bills.

Yes, most homeowners see a significant drop in their energy costs. The amount you save depends on your system size, household energy use, and local electricity rates. In many cases, solar can reduce your bills by 60-90%, and government rebates or feed-in tariffs may also apply.

Solar panels are designed to last 25–30 years or more. Most manufacturers provide long-term performance warranties, meaning your system will continue generating clean energy for decades with only a slight reduction in efficiency over time.

Solar panels only generate power when the sun is shining. At night, your home uses electricity from the grid or from a solar battery if you have one installed. On cloudy or rainy days, your panels will still produce electricity, just at a reduced rate.

The cost depends on the size of the system, the type of panels and inverter you choose, and whether you include battery storage. While it’s an investment, many systems pay for themselves within a few years through bill savings. Plus, rebates and incentives may reduce the upfront cost.

Dylan and his team installed solar panels on our house. They were knowledgeable, professional and friendly. I highly recommend Sandford Electrical for all your electrical needs.

Solar systems are low-maintenance. They have no moving parts, so they rarely break down. Cleaning the panels once or twice a year and having your system inspected regularly will help keep it running at peak performance.

Yes — with the right-sized system (and possibly a battery), solar can power your entire household. Our team can assess your roof size, sun exposure, and energy usage to recommend a system that meets your needs.

Most panels come with a 25-year performance warranty, while inverters typically have 10 years. Batteries also come with a 10-year warranty. We only use trusted brands with strong warranties to give you peace of mind.

Yes, solar is considered a home upgrade. Properties with solar systems are more attractive to buyers because of the reduced electricity costs. Installing solar can increase the resale value of your home.

Most roofs are suitable, but the ideal setup depends on roof angle, direction, and shading. During our free assessment, we’ll check your roof and design a system that captures the most sunlight possible for maximum efficiency.

General electrical FAQs

Electrical work touches every part of your home or business, and it’s important to know you’re in safe hands. Whether it’s small repairs, major upgrades, or emergency callouts, we’ve put together answers to the most common questions we hear from our customers.

Flickering lights are often a sign of loose wiring, overloaded circuits, or a faulty light switch. In some cases, it may be linked to a larger issue with your electrical panel or supply. If it happens frequently, it’s important to have an electrician check it right away, as faulty wiring can be a fire hazard.

A tripping breaker usually means your circuit is overloaded, a faulty appliance is connected, or there may be a wiring issue. Breakers are designed to protect your property from electrical fires, so if it keeps happening, it’s best to call us to investigate the cause safely.

If your property is more than 25–30 years old, or you notice burning smells, buzzing sounds, warm outlets, or frequently tripping breakers, your wiring may be outdated. Rewiring ensures your system can handle today’s appliances and keeps your property safe.

For safety reasons, electrical work should always be carried out by a licensed electrician. DIY electrical work can put you at risk of shock, fire, and property damage — and in most cases, it’s also illegal and can void your insurance. Our trained electricians make sure everything is safe and up to code.

We recommend having your electrical system professionally inspected every 3–5 years for homes, and at least once a year for commercial properties. Regular inspections help identify hidden faults before they become costly or dangerous problems.

Dylan and his crew were amazing. They quoted within days and then completed the work just as quick. Left the house spotless. Great service, good price and excellent communication. Highly recommend.

A safety switch — also known as an RCD (Residual Current Device) protects you from electric shock. It shuts off power instantly if it detects current leaking through water, faulty wiring, or even a person. They are essential in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoors.

Yes, we can install new power points (single, double, or USB outlets) exactly where you need them. This helps prevent overloading existing circuits and makes your home or business more convenient and safe.

Yes, if you’re dealing with burning smells, sparks, no power, or exposed wires, call us immediately. We provide 24/7 emergency electrical services to keep your home and family safe.

Absolutely. An upgraded switchboard ensures your electrical system can handle modern appliances, air conditioners, and solar systems safely. Old or overloaded switchboards can be a fire hazard — upgrading adds both safety and efficiency.

Yes, we provide free, no-obligation quotes for most electrical jobs. Just give us a call or send an inquiry through our website, and we’ll arrange a time to assess your needs.