News

Home Battery Subsidy

If you’re considering a battery for your home or business, now is a great time to take action with the new government’s Home Battery Subsidy:

What is the Battery Subsidy?

It won’t be means-tested and offers an approximately 30 per cent discount on batteries for households, businesses and community facilities such as sports centres or town halls. [SRC: ABC]

Learn More:

What is the right size battery for my home?

Obviously, every home is different and energy needs vary, but the Smart Energy Council crunched the numbers recently on household power usage and came up with this conclusion: the battery you need to lower bills is smaller, and therefore cheaper, than you might think.

It found that to avoid using power during that evening peak, over 90 per cent of households could get by with a battery as small as 6 or 7 kilowatt-hours.

That’s smaller than the average battery installation, with two of the most popular batteries in Australia being around 13 kilowatt-hours. [SRC: ABC]

If you’re not sure, or you’d like to know more, simply contact our team – we’ll be happy to help you with determining the best battery for your property. We can also assist with associated aspects including solar power, energy management, and EV charging, in addition to more traditional electrical requirements such as air-conditioning, appliances, and smoke alarms.

How do I get the subsidy?

When you purchase your battery from Noosa Electric Co., the price will already be adjusted to include the subsidised rate.

When can I get a subsidised battery?

Subsidised batteries will be installed by our team from July 1st 2025. If you’d like to register for a subsidised battery to beat the crowds, please complete the form below.

What brand of batteries do you install?

We always work with quality brands that are designed for the Australian environment and compatible with your existing technology infrastructure. To determine the best brand for your home, contact us on the form below and we’ll discuss your energy goals and help you to connect with an appropriate brand and model.

An example of batteries we install by Sungrow.

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NECO Insights: Common Air-Conditioner Installation Problems

When it comes to air-conditioner installation on the Sunshine Coast, a professional installation is crucial for long-term comfort and efficiency. At Noosa Electric Co, our experienced air-conditioner electricians have encountered and resolved a wide range of installation issues.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the problems that can arise with an AC installation, and how through our experience and processes, our team will help you to avoid them.

1. Incorrect Sizing of the Air-Conditioner

One of the most frequent issues is choosing an air-conditioner that is either too large or too small for the space. An oversized unit can cause short cycling, leading to inefficiency and increased wear and tear. Conversely, an undersized unit may struggle to cool the room effectively. As part of our process, we help you to determine the right type of air-conditioner for your space. This process is called air-conditioner design.

2. Poor Placement of the Indoor and Outdoor Units

Improper positioning of air-conditioner units can reduce their efficiency. The placement of both the indoor and outdoor units must be done in a way to optimise the configuration. For example, the indoor unit should be placed away from heat sources and in a location that allows for even air distribution. Similarly, the outdoor unit should have proper clearance and be positioned in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Our experienced team will help you to ensure optimal placement for maximum efficiency.

3. Faulty Electrical Connections

A safe and efficient air-conditioner installation requires proper electrical work. Faulty wiring or incorrect connections can lead to malfunctions, increased energy bills, or even safety hazards. Our certified air-conditioner electricians at Noosa Electric Co follow strict safety standards to ensure your system is properly connected. As licensed and qualified electricians, we will help you to ensure your installation will be safe & compliant.

4. Inadequate Insulation and Sealing

Poor insulation around the air-conditioner ducts or inadequate sealing can cause cool air to escape, reducing the system’s efficiency. This issue often leads to higher energy costs. Proper sealing and insulation during installation are key to maintaining efficiency. We use careful attention to detail on our installations to ensure all systems are correctly configured.

5. Improper Refrigerant Levels

Incorrect refrigerant charging during installation can affect the air-conditioner’s cooling ability and efficiency. Too much or too little refrigerant can strain the system, increasing energy consumption and the risk of breakdowns. Professional installation by the Noosa Electric Co electrical team ensures that refrigerant levels are correctly set.

6. Lack of Proper Drainage

Air-conditioners produce condensation that needs to drain properly. Faulty drainage systems can cause water leaks, leading to property damage or mold growth. Our team installs proper drainage to prevent such issues, paying attention to the outdoor environment to determine the most optimal solution depending on your AC installation.

7. Skipping Professional Installation Services

Attempting a DIY air-conditioner installation or hiring inexperienced technicians often results in costly problems down the line. Professional air-conditioner electricians have the skills and tools to handle the complexities of installation, ensuring everything is up to code.

Conclusion

At Noosa Electric Co, we understand the importance of proper air-conditioner installation on the Sunshine Coast. Our expert air-conditioner electricians are dedicated to delivering efficient, reliable, and professional installation services. By addressing these common installation issues upfront, you can enjoy a comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environment. For top-notch air-conditioner installation services on the Sunshine Coast, contact our team today.

Be Prepared for Tropical Cyclone Alfred

The following information comes from: electricalsafety.qld.gov.au

Preparation

Be prepared for loss of power that could last for more than one week. Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged in case you need to use it in an emergency.
If you plan to use a generator make sure it is in good working order before you intend to use it. You must have a changeover switch installed if you want to use it to power the wiring of your home.
Turn off your solar power system by following the manufacturer’s instructions before the storm or flood hits.
Make sure you know how to turn your mains power off in case you need to do it in an emergency.
Prepare an evacuation plan that includes where powerlines are on or near your property so you can avoid these while you evacuate.
If anyone in your house relies on electrical equipment for medical reasons, you must have a plan if your power is cut – don’t assume it will be restored quickly.

During a Storm or Cyclone

If you’ve lost power, turn off your power points and unplug electrical equipment if it is safe to do so. Don’t go outside during a storm to turn off power.
Do not run electrical equipment such as generators, extension leads or lighting in wet areas.
Some storms and floods can last for a long time. If the storm causes damage, do not attempt to make temporary electrical repairs. Turn the power off and have a licensed electrical contractor perform the repairs after the bad weather has passed. If the power cannot be turned off, stay well away from the damaged equipment and call your electricity entity (Energex, Ergon).
In a flood, place electrical equipment as high off the ground as possible.

Generator Safety

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can kill, so never run generators indoors. Generators can produce high levels of CO, and like electricity, cannot be seen or smelt. If you feel sick, dizzy or weak using a generator, move away immediately and get some fresh air.

Tips for safe use:

Keep generators outdoors in a well-ventilated area to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Use portable generators only for essential equipment like fridges.
Never connect a generator to your house power supply unless fitted with a proper change-over switch by a licensed electrician.
Ensure power boards and leads are damage-free and protected from water and tripping hazards.
Remember, ‘Suicide leads’ are extremely dangerous illegally made power leads that must not be used to connect generators to the wiring of your house.

After a Storm or Cyclone

Check your house for damage:

If your property has been damaged, you will need a licensed electrical contractor to test that your home is electrically safe before you can be reconnected. You should ask for a certificate of test once the work is completed.
If you remove internal or external wall sheeting after a flood, be careful not to expose electrical fittings. Exposed parts on the back of power points or light switches can cause electric shock or fire.
If your property has been flooded, make sure any electrical equipment (including plug in items) which has been in flood water is tested by a licensed electrical contractor before using it again.
If you need to enter your ceiling space to inspect or repair, ensure the power is turned off at the main switch board before entering the space.
Stay away from damaged or flooded service pillars and report damage to the electricity entity. Service pillars are green or beige plastic boxes which usually sit on the fence line between houses where you have underground power.
If you have a point of attachment on your house, check if it’s damaged or hanging off the wall or facia. If it is damaged, it must be repaired by a licenced electrical contractor before power can be restored. Your electricity entity will ask to see paperwork (certificate of test) from this repair before they reconnect the power to your property.

Check your solar PV system and battery storage for damage

If you need to shut the system down in an emergency, follow the shutdown procedures which should be on the inverter or the main switchboard. Don’t turn off the system if any of its components are wet or damaged or internal wires are exposed.
If your system has been damaged, contact a licensed electrical contractor or installer for advice before you turn it on.
Solar PV systems will continue producing electricity when exposed to light even if the network supply is turned off or the system has been shut down. Don’t touch them or any conductive material that exposed parts of the system are touching as they may also be live.
Damaged battery energy storage systems need a qualified person or installer to inspect it before using it again.

Fallen Power Lines

Be careful cleaning up fallen branches and debris around your property as they could be hiding fallen or submerged powerlines. Treat any fallen or damaged powerlines as live.
Fallen and low hanging powerlines can be hard to see, especially at night. Stay well away from them and warn others to do the same.
Report any fallen lines to the emergency services or your electricity entity.

Cleaning up debris and floodwater

Switch the power off at the switchboard when using water.
It is illegal and very dangerous to use water pressure cleaners on material that contains asbestos. If you’re not sure, don’t risk it.
Do not operate appliances or switches while standing in water or with bare feet.

Electric shocks

Never touch electrical equipment (including conductive material) that has caused a shock. Prevent anyone from using it and have it checked and repaired by a licensed electrical contractor.
If you experience tingles or shocks from an electrical appliance or taps, this means there could be an electrical problem. Call your electricity entity immediately to check out the problem. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to a much more serious electric shock.
Never touch or attempt to rescue someone who is receiving an electric shock as you may end up receiving a shock yourself. If possible, turn off the power. Stay clear and call triple zero (000).
Do not do your own electrical work – it’s illegal and dangerous. Always use a licensed electrical contractor.
Do not approach property cordoned off with electrical hazard tape.

For Official Updates on Tropical Cyclone Alfred

First aid and emergency plan information
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) for the latest weather warnings and forecasts.
Get Ready Queensland for practical advice on storm preparation, including a video on what to expect in a Category 1 or 2 cyclone: Tropical Cyclone Alfred
Your local council dashboard for updates on local conditions, road closures, and emergency alerts.
In an emergency, ABC Emergency will provide regular warnings on ABC Radio. You can also find a map of current warnings and detailed information.
Emergency alert messages are sent from: +61 444 444 444 These messages are not a scam and are official text messages from the Queensland State Disaster Coordination Centre as part of the national geo-targeting emergency alert system.

See electricalsafety.qld.gov.au for more information.

10 Essential Electrical Safety Tips for Storm Season

Living in the beautiful Noosa region and across the Sunshine Coast means enjoying a stunning coastal lifestyle, but it also comes with the reality of storm season. Whether it’s a summer thunderstorm or the threat of a cyclone, being prepared can make all the difference in protecting your home and family. At Noosa Electric Co, we’re committed to helping the local community stay safe with practical storm preparation and cyclone preparation tips — especially when it comes to electrical safety.

Why Storm Preparation Matters

Storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even flooding, all of which can impact your home’s electrical systems. Power outages, electrical surges, and water damage are common issues that can lead to costly repairs and safety hazards. By taking proactive steps before the storm arrives, you can reduce the risk of damage and ensure your home remains safe and functional during severe weather events.

1. Schedule an Electrical Inspection

Before storm season hits, it’s wise to have a licensed Sunshine Coast electrician inspect your home’s wiring, switchboard, and surge protection. At Noosa Electric Co, we can assess your electrical system to ensure it’s up to standard and advise whether there is anything we can do to improve the safety of your setup.

2. Install Surge Protection

Power surges caused by lightning strikes or grid fluctuations can damage appliances and sensitive electronics. Installing whole-house surge protection at your switchboard or using individual surge protectors on important devices can prevent costly damage. Learn more about surge protection solutions here.

3. Secure Outdoor Electrical Components

Strong winds and heavy rain can damage split system air-conditioning units, solar panels, and outdoor lighting. To minimise the chance of problems, it’s important to ensure that:

a. Your outdoor ducted air-conditioner and external split system air-conditioning units are securely mounted.

b Solar panels are properly fastened and inspected for any loose components.

c. Outdoor power points and electrical wiring are waterproof and in good condition.

Our team can help – contact us for more information.

4. Backup Power Solutions

Storms and cyclones can lead to power outages that last hours or even days. Consider investing in a backup power source, such as a generator or a solar battery system. A solar battery allows you to store excess power from your solar panels, providing energy when the grid goes down.

5. Use Generators Safely

If using a generator, keep it outside and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

6. Test and Maintain Smoke Alarms

With increased fire risks due to electrical faults during storms, ensuring your smoke alarms are in working order is crucial. Test your smoke alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed. If your smoke alarms are outdated or not interconnected, our electricians can install modern, compliant systems for better safety. Learn more about smoke alarms here.

7. Unplug Appliances Before the Storm Hits

To prevent damage from power surges, unplug televisions, computers, and major appliances before a storm arrives. This simple step can protect your expensive equipment and reduce the risk of electrical fires.

8. Know How to Safely Turn Off Power

In case of flooding or electrical emergencies, it can be helpful to know how to turn off your home’s power at the switchboard. Make sure everyone in your household understands the process. If you experience electrical issues during a storm, avoid attempting DIY fixes and contact a professional Sunshine Coast electrician for assistance.

9. Clear Overhanging Trees and Debris

Falling branches can damage power lines and create serious electrical hazards. Trim back trees near power lines and your home to minimise the risk of electrical damage during storms.

10. Post-Storm Electrical Safety

After a storm has passed, take precautions before restoring power and using appliances:

a. Check for water damage – If your switchboard or power outlets have been exposed to water, do not turn them on. Contact a licensed Noosa electrician for an inspection.

b. Avoid downed power lines – Stay clear of fallen power lines and report them immediately to Energex or emergency services.

c. Inspect appliances before use – If any electrical devices have been exposed to water or moisture, have them checked before plugging them in.

Stay Storm-Ready with Noosa Electric Co

At Noosa Electric Co, we’re passionate about keeping homes and businesses across the Sunshine Coast and Noosa safe with reliable electrical solutions. From surge protection to smoke alarm installations, solar solutions, and air-conditioning services, we’re here to help you prepare for storm season.

Don’t wait until the next big storm — get in touch with Noosa Electric Co today for an electrical inspection and storm preparation advice. Contact us now to learn more about how we can safeguard your home and keep your power running, no matter the weather!

Call Noosa Electric Co today for expert electrical solutions in Noosa and across the Sunshine Coast.

Storm Season Preparation

Protect your Sunshine Coast home during the storm season with the installation of Surge Arrestors in your switchboard. We offer expert installation of these devices which are designed to add an additional layer of safety to your appliances and electronics from unexpected over-voltage surges from sources like thunderstorms and switching operations in the power supply.

How do Surge Arrestors Work?

Surge arrestors protect electrical systems by diverting excess voltage away from devices during power surges through the network, such as those caused by lightning strikes or sudden power restoration. Installed in your electrical panel or near sensitive equipment, they sense dangerous voltage spikes and instantly redirect excess energy to the ground, preventing it from reaching and damaging your appliances and electronics. Note, surge arrestors will not protect your home in the event of a direct lightning strike.

Surge Arrestors

Protect valuable electrical equipment from over-voltages, and discuss a surge arrestor solution for your home or business today. Contact our team for more information:

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Bulkhead Vs Split System AC – What’s the Difference?

Bulkhead and Split Systems are two popular types of air-conditioner solutions used on the Sunshine Coast. In this article, we take a look at the differences between these two approaches. If you’re interested in an air-conditioning solution for your home or business, contact our team. We’ll help you determine the best solution for your premises and can also assist with sales, installation, and after-sales support and servicing for your appliance.

Make an Air-Conditioning Enquiry

The Main Distinction:

Different types of air-conditioning solutions can get a bit confusing. The words used to describe systems (such as split system or bulkhead system) are also sometimes used interchangeably by manufacturers – making it unclear how they are actually different. When you’re comparing bulkhead systems with split systems, the main thing is the difference with the internal unit.

The internal unit of the bulkhead air-conditioner is built into a wall or ceiling (usually a drop ceiling); the internal unit of a split system sits on the wall, so you can see the whole unit. Here are two photos illustrating this difference in action:

Split System Air-Conditioner Installation

Implications of an Integrated Solution

The fact that bulkhead air-conditioners are integrated into the building means that they create a more discrete and streamlined solution. However, because they are built into the room, their inclusion requires either a new build or a renovation. Meanwhile, split systems can be retrospectively added into virtually any existing room – because they are not integrated with the building. This makes them the logical choice if you’re looking to add an air-conditioner to an existing home or business.

3 Similarities Between Bulkhead and Split System Air-Conditioners

Cooling Capacity: Both bulkhead and split system air conditioners are capable of effectively cooling indoor spaces. Both use similar cooling mechanisms involving the circulation of refrigerant to absorb heat from indoor air and expel it outdoors.
Energy Efficiency: Both types of air-conditioners can be designed with energy-efficient features and technologies to reduce electricity consumption. Whether it’s through programmable thermostats, energy-saving modes, or high-efficiency compressors, both bulkhead and split system ACs can help lower energy bills while providing comfort.
Customisation: Both bulkhead and split system solutions offer some level of customisation in terms of capacity and features. They come in various sizes and configurations to suit different room dimensions and cooling needs.

3 Differences Between Bulkhead and Split System Air-Conditioners

Flexibility: Bulkhead systems have less flexibility in terms of placement due to the need for a wall-mounted installation. Split systems offer more flexibility in placement, as the indoor unit can be installed on various surfaces such as walls or ceilings, while the outdoor unit can be placed in different outdoor locations.
Cost: Bulkhead installation costs may be higher due to the need for structural modifications to accommodate the unit. Split system installation costs may be lower as it typically requires less invasive installation and can often be retrofitted into existing spaces without significant structural changes.
Maintenance: Maintenance and repairs on a bulkhead system may be more challenging due to the integrated design and wall-mounted installation. Maintenance and repairs on a split system are generally easier as components are separated between indoor and outdoor units, allowing for easier access and servicing.

What’s the Right Solution for Your Home?

Talk to our team to discover the right air-conditioning solution for your home. We’re experienced and can help you to determine an approach that will meet your cooling and energy objectives: