G’day Folks! Brenton Hielscher here, your trusted local electrician and solar energy expert. As Tropical Cyclone Jasper approaches our beautiful backyard, Far North Queensland, it’s time to talk about how we can protect our properties, especially our valuable solar setups, from the impending tropical storm.
But wait, on behalf of myself and my family, I’d like to personally take this opportunity to thank Annastacia Palaszczuk for her years of service to our state, and our local community! We’re truly going to miss you.
Guys, i’m not trying to be political, trust me. I’m merely just giving credit where credit is due…… You know, like our customers who are helping us on our journey to 100 5 Star Ratings and Reviews!
And…. I did see that there’s likely going to be a $4000 Solar Battery Rebate for Queensland Homes starting early 2024! You’ve got my support QLD Government!
Storm Check: Understanding Tropical Cyclone Jasper
Before we get stuck in, let’s get a handle on our storm check and see what we’re all up for. Tropical Cyclone Jasper isn’t just a spot of bad weather; it’s a severe event that’s set to bring a deluge of rain, howling winds, and the potential for flooding. These conditions can wreak havoc on properties, and especially on rooftop solar panels and other outdoor electrical installations.
But here’s the kicker: Tropical Cyclone Jasper is due to hit a popular coastal holiday spot within the next 24 hours, and authorities are warning it could be “highly destructive” as it sweeps across Queensland. Cairns District Disaster Coordinator Acting Chief Superintendent Sonia Smith has urged residents in the north of the state to brace for impact in the next 24 hours.
Cyclone Jasper is forecast to re-intensify and reach category 2 before it makes landfall somewhere on the northern QLD coast between Cape Flattery and Cardwell on Wednesday,
Sonia Smith – Cairns District Disaster Coordinator Acting Chief Superintendent
Those in the Cairns region have been warned of a possible storm surge in the areas indicated by the red, orange, and yellow zones on the disaster warning map. A storm surge, for those who don’t know, is when coastal waters rise above the highest tide levels due to a cyclone, creating “tsunami-like waves” that can travel inland. Port Douglas has also been flagged as a potential storm surge and flooding. “red zone”.
So, folks, we’re not just up against a bit of wind and rain here. We’re facing a serious storm that could cause significant damage. But don’t worry, we’re Queenslanders, and we’re known for our resilience. With a bit of preparation, we can weather this storm together. Stay tuned for my next post where I’ll share tips on how to protect your solar installations and property from Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
Safeguarding Your Solar Installations
As a seasoned solar professional, I’ve seen firsthand how cyclones can wreak havoc on solar installations. But don’t worry, there are steps you can take to protect your investment:
- Secure Your Solar Panels: Ensure your solar panels are securely fastened to your roof. If you’re unsure about this, it’s a good idea to get a professional to check.
- Switch Off Your Solar System: Before the storm hits, switch off your solar system to prevent electrical damage. Remember to turn off both the solar supply main switch and the PV array isolator.
- Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your solar system can help identify potential issues before they become major problems during a storm.
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Preparing Your Property
Beyond your solar system, there are other steps you can take to protect your property:
- Clear Gutters and Drains: Blocked gutters and drains can cause water to back up and potentially enter your home. Make sure these are clear to allow water to flow away from your property.
- Secure Loose Items: Loose items can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds. Secure or store away items like outdoor furniture and garden tools.
- Check Your Insurance Policy: Make sure your insurance policy covers storm and flood damage. It’s also a good idea to have your solar system included in your policy.
- Prepare to Lodge an Insurance Claim: Now, this might seem a bit premature, but trust me, it’s worth thinking about. If Jasper does cause damage, you’ll want to lodge an insurance claim as soon as possible. So, take a moment to familiarise yourself with your insurer’s claim process. It’s also a good idea to snap some photos of your property and belongings before the storm hits. These can be handy to show the condition of things pre-Jasper.
After the Cyclone
Once the storm has passed, it’s important to check your solar system for any damage. If you notice anything unusual, don’t try to fix it yourself. Solar systems are complex and can be dangerous if not handled correctly. Instead, get in touch with a professional like me and my team at Hielscher Electrical and Solar.
Remember, mates, preparation is key. Stay safe and let’s weather this storm together. If you need any assistance or advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help!
Cheers, Brenton
Image sourced from and credited to news.com.au
