Five solar myths, busted (cloudy days, blackouts and more)

Myth 1: solar doesn't work on cloudy days

Panels make power from daylight, not heat, so they keep working when it's cloudy, just less. Your savings are worked out over a whole year, cloudy days included.

Myth 2: solar keeps the lights on in a blackout

Most systems switch off in a blackout, as Australian standards require, so they don't send power into lines that people may be working on. To keep chosen circuits running you need a battery set up for backup (with us, that's Blackout Backup).

Myth 3: panels have to face north

North gets the most sun, but east and west roofs work well and spread your solar across the morning and afternoon.

Myth 4: solar is only worth it if you're home all day

Being home helps you use more of it, but the fridge, hot water timers and appliances you schedule for the day all count. A battery covers the evening.

Myth 5: panels need lots of maintenance

Not really. Rain cleans most tilted panels, and an occasional check is usually all they need. See our guide to looking after your panels.

Revo's tipHeard something else about solar and not sure if it's true? Ask me in the chat. I'll give you a straight answer.