How to Get the Most Out of Your Solar Panels?
Maximising Your Solar Panels
As more and more Malaysians start going solar and are trying to get the hang of this new electricity supply, there are a few tips and tricks to making sure you’re getting the most out of your solar panels. If you decide to go solar for your home, check out these 6 tips!
Timing is everything
Since solar PV panels are most effective during the day, make use of them when the sun is shining. If you normally run your dishwasher or washing machine overnight, it’s time to switch it up. Besides these, you should also recharge your mobile devices, laptops and other gadgets during the day and unplug them in the evening.
When it comes to cooking, the same principle applies! You can make the most of that sunshine and cook your meals throughout the day. On top of that, slow cookers are a great way to prepare a meal using solar power as well.
In short, use more electricity during the day.
Reduce energy wastage
There are so many simple steps that you can do that will make a huge difference. Consider turning off unnecessary lights and opting for natural light as much as you can, taking shorter showers, and turning off standby mode on your electrical devices (kitchen appliances, TVs, computers, game consoles, etc). In fact, it’s best for devices – when not in use – to be physically separated from the circuit.
Keep solar panels clean
In Malaysia, the rainy weather is the best natural way to keep your solar panels clean. But if you discovered that there are dust and dirt accumulating on the surface of your solar panels to the point where the energy production of your solar panels are affected, you can wipe them clean with a soft sponge or cloth. Alternatively, you can hire someone professional to do the cleaning for you.
Use one appliance at a time
Did you know that you can conserve electricity just by making it a habit to use one appliance at a time? For instance, cook dinner before switching the TV on, do your laundry after your dishwasher is done cleaning, vacuum before you shower, and so on.
Use smart home tech or upgrade your appliances
In the recent years, smart home technologies have made energy-saving much easier. For example, smart bulbs that you can turn on and off with your smartphone, smart plugs that comes with apps that allow you to program times of use, smart sprinkler systems that automatically set your lawn watering time according to the weather forecast, and so on.
If you're looking to buy new appliances, consider battery operated options because they allow to charge them during daylight hours. Moreover, you can also consider energy-efficient models designed to use as little energy as possible.
Use a monitoring system
It’ll be good to have a dedicated monitoring system for your solar panels that will help you obtain measurements that are not affected by other electrical devices. Monitoring systems are important because they help you keep track of your panels’ performance as well as make troubleshooting easier. As and when the energy production drops, you will be informed and know that maintenance is required. Through a mounted display or an app, you can easily access all the latest information about your solar power system.