The director and general manager of three New South Wales solar companies has been fined $15,000 for selling solar hot water systems with potentially unsafe storage tanks and solar panels with electrical faults.
According to NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe, the action was in connection to equipment and installation that did not comply with the Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act 2004 and relevant Australian Standards.
A licensed plumber who had worked for one of the companies tipped off Fair Trading after asking to see documentation to prove the tanks complied with Australian Standards. Proper documentation was not provided and the plumber left the company.
400 of the white tanks, bearing a sticker with the words “Solar Direct” were sold to New South Wales residents. None of the tanks bear the appropriate electrical safety approval mark.
“The tanks had the potential to produce an uncontrolled water temperature that could result in very hot water flowing into bathroom and kitchen taps or from the tanks, presenting a serious risk of scalding”, said Commissioner Stowe.
“Another problem was that the tanks did not have appropriately rated pressure relief valves fitted, which could result in the tanks rupturing and leaking.”
Noting water stored in a couple of tanks inspected was discoloured and had an odd odour, further testing revealed an elevated alkaline pH level that could cause skin irritation.
After a number of rectification orders were issued in relation to the solar hot water systems, in December last year five additional rectification orders were also issued for electrical faults with solar panels installed at various properties. All the rectification orders for both the solar hot water storage tanks and solar panels were not complied with.
The three companies – Solar & Bamboo Direct Coffs Harbour Pty Ltd, Solar & Bamboo Direct Tamworth Pty Ltd and Solar Installations (NSW) Pty Ltd were placed into liquidation on December 23 last year.
NSW Fair Trading urges consumers who purchased a solar hot water system from Solar & Bamboo Direct or had solar power systems installed by Solar Installations (NSW) Pty Ltd should contact the department on 13 32 20 and lodge a proof of debt with the liquidator.
Related:
Solar Power Consumer’s Guide
