As the world moves increasingly towards using renewable energy wherever possible, using solar panels to generate electricity is becoming trendy for many homeowners. Not only does it reduce your family’s carbon footprint, but it can also save you money on your electricity bills which, of course, helps your household budget.
If you opt for a solar system to generate your home’s electricity, you can enhance your energy savings in several ways. These start from the outset when you first consider solar panels and use the system. Below are seven excellent tips to maximise savings using solar energy.
#1 – Ensure You Choose The Correct Solar System
Choosing the right solar system is crucial to maximising your solar energy savings. To do this, you need to consider a range of factors, such as the size of your home, your electricity usage, and the climate in your area. It would be best to consider any potential changes in your energy needs. A reputable solar panel company can help you determine the appropriate size and type of solar system for your home.
#2 – Hire Professionals To Ensure Proper Installation
Proper installation of your solar system is essential for its efficiency and longevity. Your installer should follow all the necessary guidelines and regulations to ensure your solar system is installed safely and effectively. They will also consider your roof’s orientation and angle to ensure that your solar panels receive maximum sunlight.
#3 – Monitor Your Electricity Usage
You must monitor your electricity usage to get the most out of your solar panel system. This helps identify areas where you can reduce electricity consumption and maximise savings. Many solar systems come with monitoring tools that allow you to track your usage in real time. Monitoring your use can help identify any energy-intensive activities within your home that you could reschedule to maximise the maximum amount of solar energy available.
#4 – Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
This will depend on the types of appliances you own, but investing in newer energy-efficient appliances is yet another way to reduce your electricity usage to boost savings on your electricity bills.
Energy-efficient appliances are designed to use less energy without sacrificing performance, and when choosing them, look for those with high energy star ratings. They are tested and certified to be energy-efficient and can help you reduce your electricity usage. Energy-efficient appliances are available in various categories, including washing machines, refrigerators, and air conditioners.
#5 – Switch to LED Lighting
Switching to LED lighting is a simple way to reduce your electricity usage and for the savings you make from using solar energy to be multiplied considerably. LED lights use far less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, with the added benefit that they last much longer and thus save you even more in the long run. They also come in a range of colours and styles, so you should be able to find LED lights that suit the decor and aesthetics of the interior of your home.
#6 – Utilise Battery Storage
A battery storage system is an excellent way to maximise your solar energy savings. It allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night when your solar panels are not generating electricity. This can significantly reduce your reliance on grid power and lower electricity bills.
Different types of solar batteries are available, including lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular choice for solar systems as they are lightweight, compact, and have a longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries. When choosing a battery storage system, your installer will advise you to consider the size of your solar system and your home’s electricity needs.
#7 – Keep Your Solar Panels Clean And Well-Maintained
Keeping your solar panels clean is essential for maintaining their efficiency. Dirt, dust, and debris can block sunlight and reduce your panels’ electricity. Regularly cleaning your solar panels will also ensure that they work at their optimal capacity. Cleaning your solar panels is simple with a soft brush and some water. However, hiring a professional to clean them for you is best as they can also carry out any necessary maintenance.