Get the most out of your solar.
So you have solar panels installed, but now what? How can you make the most of them to maximise their generation? Here are some tips to help you get the most from your solar panels and optimise your electricity usage:
- Time-Of-Use Planning:
First and foremost, solar panels generate energy in the day light. To use this energy, plan to use as much of your electricity in the day time as possible. This saves any energy being wasted in the daytime. Think about when you will run appliances such as your washing machine, tumble dryer or dishwasher – can you change your routine to fit these into the light hours of the day? Many appliances these days have ‘delay’ functions that you can use to help you schedule when they run. Secondly, be aware of your utility company’s rates. Some electricity providers offer different rates at different times of the day. If you cannot schedule your high energy using appliances for daylight hours, then schedule them to run when you have a cheaper rate from your energy provider.
- Energy Efficient Appliances and Smart Technology:
Use energy-efficient appliances and devices to make the most of the electricity generated by your solar panels. Try to choose appliances with an energy rating between A & D and use LED lighting to reduce overall energy consumption. Implement smart home technologies to optimise energy usage. Smart thermostats, lighting systems, and appliances can be programmed to operate efficiently, syncing with your solar panel generation patterns.
- Optimal Panel Placement:
We do this bit for you! Solar panels work best when facing the sun for the longest. Here in the northern hemisphere, that means that South facing roofs are ideal for solar panels. However, we can also make an East/West system work well for you too. We will make sure that your solar panels are installed in a location that receives maximum sunlight exposure throughout the day for your property. We will always work with what you have and offer you the best possible orientation and roof coverage that we can.
- Regular Maintenance:
Solar panels are generally very low maintenance. However, they need light on them to work, so anything blocking the sunlight needs to be removed. Things like leaves, dirt, bird droppings and even snow can reduce the generation of your panels. Most things can be cleaned off with a soft brush or cloth, you rarely will need any cleaning fluids. If you are concerned about the condition of your solar panels, we do offer a maintenance package where we can take a look for you.
- Monitor System Performance:
Use the monitoring software/app that comes with your system. Monitoring allows you to identify and address any issues promptly, ensuring that your system operates at peak efficiency. If something comes up as a problem, give us a call and we will aim to resolve it as soon as we can.
- Battery Storage System:
Consider installing a solar battery storage system. Batteries can store excess electricity generated during sunny days for use during periods of low sunlight or at night. This helps increase your self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on the grid.
By implementing these strategies, you can optimise the efficiency of your solar panel system, reduce your reliance on the grid, and make the most of the clean and renewable energy generated by your solar panels.
Looking for Solar Panels?
At Solar Voltaics, we specialise in designing, installing, and maintaining solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. We help clients transition to clean and sustainable solar energy solutions through services like site assessment, system design, installation, and ongoing support.
Get in touch today to start your project with sustainable solar energy solutions at Solar Voltaics.
