TL;DR
- Ten specific checks covering switchboard, earthing, cable path, RCDs, SPD and Ergon.
- If your home fails any item we fix it in the same visit where possible.
- Addressing issues upfront prevents delays and avoids "surprise" post-install costs.
The 10-point pre-solar electrical checklist
1. Switchboard age & condition
Is the board post-2010? Metal enclosure? RCBOs on each circuit? If not, upgrade is likely required. See switchboard upgrades.
2. Spare breaker capacity
Need 1-2 free slots for solar isolator + inverter breaker. More if adding battery or EV.
3. Main breaker rating
Ideally 63 A single-phase or higher for solar > 6.6 kW. Three-phase homes: 40 A per phase minimum.
4. MEN (earthing) system
Modern MEN link present, earth stake in good condition, no corroded or loose connections. Critical for solar anti-islanding.
5. RCD protection
All final sub-circuits protected per AS/NZS 3000:2018. Solar circuit requires dedicated RCD Type A or B.
6. Smart meter status
Does your home have a Type 4 interval smart meter? If not, Ergon will replace the existing meter 1-4 weeks after solar install. We notify Ergon automatically.
7. Cable path from roof to switchboard
Unobstructed route for DC cables from inverter to switchboard. Cavity access or conduit. Ceiling space should be passable and clean.
8. Surge Protection Device (SPD)
Mackay has high lightning activity. A Type 2 SPD at the main switchboard protects the whole home, including solar inverter. Highly recommended.
9. Inverter location
Shaded, ventilated, close to switchboard ideally. Not direct sun (shortens life) and not in unventilated cupboards.
10. Ergon connection details
NMI number, meter reference, current tariff, three-phase vs single-phase supply, and any existing export limits. We pull all of this from Ergon as part of the job.
What a "fail" costs to fix
| Issue | Fix cost | Impact if skipped |
|---|---|---|
| Old ceramic-fuse board | $1,800-$3,000 | Install cancelled by inspector |
| No spare breaker slots | $200-$600 | Additional sub-board needed |
| Inadequate earthing | $150-$400 | Inverter faults, safety hazard |
| No RCD protection | $250-$800 | Non-compliant install |
| No SPD | $300-$500 | Lightning risk to inverter |
Why we insist on the walk-through
A 20-minute pre-install inspection avoids nasty surprises on install day. Every quote we issue in Mackay includes this inspection — it protects you from change-orders and protects us from unsafe work.
FAQs
How long does the pre-inspection take?
Typically 20-40 minutes. Free as part of any quote we provide.
Can I fix these items myself?
No — all work on the consumer mains and switchboard requires a licensed electrician in QLD.
Free pre-solar inspection
Book a 30-minute Mackay-area inspection. No obligation, full written report.
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