As an electrical contractor, you’re not just there to install systems—you’re the expert customers trust to keep their homes safe. If your clients have invested in rooftop solar, encouraging them to keep their systems in top shape is crucial. Routine maintenance ensures their solar setup continues to deliver energy efficiently and safely, especially in the harsh Australian climate. Here’s why it’s time to remind your customers to show their solar some love with regular servicing.
Why regular solar servicing is essential
Australia’s weather is no joke. From the blazing heat of summer to winter storms, your customers’ solar systems are exposed to the elements year-round. Without proper upkeep, these conditions can cause wear and tear that leads to faults, inefficiencies, and even serious hazards like fires.
One of the most common issues with poorly maintained solar systems is faults in the DC isolator—the safety switch that stops electricity flow in emergencies. Although improvements have been made to isolator designs since 2018, older systems are particularly vulnerable to these risks. As a licensed electrical contractor, you can help customers avoid dangerous scenarios by offering regular servicing, ideally every two years.
The risk of fire
Here’s a statistic that should grab your customers’ attention: between 2022 and 2023, more than 50 rooftop fires were reported on solar systems that had never been serviced. Many of these fires could have been avoided with proper maintenance. For systems installed before 2018, the risk is even higher due to outdated safety features. Encouraging your clients to stay on top of solar system servicing isn’t just about performance—it’s about safety.
What does a solar service involve?
It’s important to make sure your customers know that solar maintenance goes beyond simply cleaning the panels. As a qualified electrician, your role is to perform a full check to ensure all components are functioning safely. Here’s what a thorough solar system service includes:
- Inspecting all components for wear, corrosion, and defects
- Ensuring wiring is intact and undamaged
- Checking the inverter display for errors
- Confirming that isolator switches are functional and accessible
- Testing for proper electrical operation of all parts
- Making sure safety labels and shutdown procedures are clear and visible
By providing this complete service, you help customers ensure their solar investment is safe and running efficiently.
Educating your customers on choosing the right electrician
One of the challenges many homeowners face is understanding who to trust for solar servicing. It’s important to stress that not all solar ‘services’ are created equal. Rogue operators who only offer panel cleaning may leave customers thinking they’re getting full service when they’re not. Only licensed electricians can provide a complete and safe check of their system. Encourage your customers to verify that the electrician they hire is fully licensed and experienced in solar servicing.
The 2-year rule: Keep your customers’ solar in top shape
Remind your clients that solar servicing isn’t a one-and-done task. Just like any major appliance, their solar system needs regular maintenance to function correctly. Encouraging them to book a service every two years will help them avoid costly repairs, keep their system running at maximum efficiency, and, most importantly, reduce the risk of fire or other hazards.
As their trusted electrical contractor, you’re in the perfect position to provide this ongoing service. Offering solar system maintenance not only helps your customers keep their homes safe, but it also strengthens your relationship with them and reinforces your expertise.
Make sure your customers know: the best way to protect their investment is to book a licensed electrician to service their system every two years.
Master Electricians Australia can help you to manage your safety requirements for your business.
Our comprehensive safety solution, ME Safety, is a compliant safety system that provides a single holistic package.
Using cloud technology, it can be used on a number of platforms to help you manage your workplace safety in real time.
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- A support hotline – Our national team of advisors are waiting for your call.
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