Non Compliant Solar System Replacement in Capalaba, Redlands

Is Your 10-Year-Old Solar System a Safety Issue? A Capalaba Case Study

Your solar system has likely saved you thousands on power bills over the years, but if it was installed a decade or more ago, it could be hiding significant safety risks. Solar technology and Australian safety standards have evolved dramatically, meaning many older systems are no longer compliant and could be a danger to your home.

This was the reality for a homeowner in Capalaba, Redland, whose 15-year-old system was showing its age. Fallon Solutions was called in to perform a safety inspection, which ultimately led to a full solar system replacement to bring the property up to modern standards and restore its energy efficiency.

The Problem: An Old, Non-Compliant, and Unsafe Solar System

Installed back in 2010, this solar system was well past its warranty period and, more critically, failed to meet current 2025 Australian solar safety standards. While it looked okay from the ground, our detailed inspection uncovered numerous red flags that made it a significant fire and electrical hazard.

So, how to know if my solar system isn’t compliant? Here are the dangerous, outdated features we found on this old solar system:

• Degrading Panels: The panels showed visible microcracks and the plastic backing sheets were ageing, which can lead to moisture getting in and a risk of delamination.
• Dangerous Rooftop Components: The system had plastic DC junction boxes under the panels and rooftop DC isolator switches. Both of these are now considered major fire risks under modern regulations and are no longer permitted.
• Poor and Unsafe Cabling: The DC cables were laid loosely across the roof tiles, exposing them to the harsh Queensland weather. Worse, incorrect cabling had been used in some areas, and there was no proper earthing on the panels or the inverter frame—a serious electrical safety failure.

Because of these multiple compliance breaches, a simple repair wasn’t an option. Any modification to the system would legally require it to be brought up to current standards, making a non-compliant solar system replacement the only safe and responsible path forward.

The Solution: A Modern, Compliant System and Switchboard Upgrade

Our primary goal was to make the home safe and energy-efficient for the future. After our technician, Alex, clearly explained the risks and the available options, the homeowner chose to proceed with a full solar system replacement.

Our licensed team carried out a comprehensive upgrade:

1. Safe Removal: We carefully decommissioned and removed the entire old system, including the degrading panels, hazardous isolators, and non-compliant wiring.
2. Installation of a Modern Solar System: We installed a brand-new, high-efficiency solar system built to today’s stringent standards. This included secure, compliant mounting, correctly rated and protected cabling, and proper earthing of all components.
3. Full Switchboard Upgrade: To ensure total home safety, we also completed a full upgrade of the property’s main switchboard. This crucial step involved installing a new main current-limiting switch to protect against major faults and fitting individual RCBO safety switches on all circuits, providing superior protection against electric shock.

The entire installation was commissioned and tested to meet AS3000 standards, future-proofing the property for decades to come.

Customer Testimonial

Our process is built on clear communication and honest advice, ensuring homeowners feel informed and confident in their decisions. Here’s what Graeme G. had to say about his experience:

“From the initial phone call to tradie availability to the technician arriving, communication and professionalism was excellent. Alex P conducted a solar panel system review on a very old system which was a safety risk. He took photos and then explained the risks. He even fixed a crack tile when on the roof! He provided different options for replacement and explained each. He was very knowledgeable, very polite and wasn’t pushy. Very happy, thank you.” – Graeme G

The Benefits: Total Safety, Renewed Savings, and Peace of Mind

This solar system replacement did more than just get the power flowing again; it delivered a complete safety and performance overhaul for the home.

• Complete Household Safety: By removing all non-compliant components and upgrading the switchboard, we eliminated multiple fire and electrical hazards, making the home significantly safer for its occupants.
• Improved Energy Efficiency: Modern panels and inverters are far more efficient than older models, meaning the new system will generate more power and deliver bigger savings on electricity bills.
• Full Compliance and Peace of Mind: The homeowner no longer has to worry about the safety of their roof. The new system is fully compliant with all 2025 standards, providing total peace of mind.
• Long-Term Reliability: The new system is backed by extensive manufacturer warranties and our own labour warranty, guaranteeing reliable performance for years to come.

Why Choose Fallon Solutions?

When it comes to the safety of your home, you need electricians who are experts in current Australian standards. The Fallon Solutions team is fully licensed and accredited, with extensive training in solar safety and compliance. We conduct thorough, transparent inspections and provide clear, no-pressure advice to help you make the best decision for your property. Learn more about our solar inspections here.

Is Your Old Solar System Putting Your Home at Risk?

If your solar system was installed before 2015, it may not meet today’s critical safety standards. Don’t leave it to chance—a professional inspection is the only way to be sure.

If you need a professional inspection or are considering an old solar system replacement in Capalaba or the wider Redland area, contact the expert team at Fallon Solutions today. Call us on 1300 054 488 or send us an enquiry here.