Solar panel systems are an affordable and reliable source of energy, and they are gradually gaining ground in India and other parts of the world. Solar panels absorb the sun ray’s and convert the solar energy into Direct Current via the photovoltaic (PV) effect. Since solar panels are getting more affordable, and even the government is offering various subsidies for installing solar panels, a lot of people have started installing solar panel systems on their residential and commercial properties. However, installing solar panels is not enough. One also needs to make sure that they get the best out of their solar panels. So, to help, in this post we have listed four smart tips that will help you make the best use of your solar panels. Let’s get started.
1. Consume Energy Judiciously
Save electricity. That’s the first rule for getting the best out of your solar panels. If you consume more than what the solar panels produce you will have to rely on your local grid for the deficit which means higher bills. And if you are not connected to the local grid you need to be even more conscious about saving energy. That’s because you need to have enough surplus energy to charge your batteries for powering your house during the night.
2. Make the Most of Daylight Hours
As we know, solar panels produce maximum energy during the day. So it is advisable that you make the most of the daylight hours. That’s because your battery may not have enough capacity to hold enough charge that can run your heavy load appliances during the night. So, let’s say if you need to complete some daily chores for which you need to run heavy load appliances such as the washing machine or the microwave, it is advisable you finish those chores during the daytime. Similarly, charge your smartphone, laptop and/or tablet during the daytime and make sure you unplug them at night.
3. Track Your Power Consumption
Now you can easily monitor your home’s power consumption – all you need is install an app on your smartphone that helps you track the power consumed by different home appliances. Also, there are apps that help you monitor the amount of energy produced by solar panels. The app gives you information about the hourly, daily and total energy generated. Some households even have a built-in monitoring system installed with their electric meters and solar inverters. Having all this information at hand will give you a proper idea as to when your appliance is exporting the most energy. This helps you get savvier with your appliance use.
4. Keep Your Solar Panels Clean
Keeping your solar panels clean from dirt, leafage, mold, bird droppings, etc. is a must. Your panels are out there exposed to dust, dirt, and debris – that can cause shading and reduce the amount of sunlight received by them. This in turn can reduce the efficiency of your solar panels. However, that doesn’t mean you need to climb onto your roof every weekend and clean your solar panels. Once or twice every 12 months should be enough. Besides this, make sure your panels are inspected at least once, every year by a professional.
Yet to Go Solar?
If you don’t have a solar power system already and are planning to go solar, you should consider buying from a reputable solar products brand such as Luminous India. They are one of the pioneers in the solar panel industry and have a long-standing track record of excellent customer service and after-sales support.
