5 tips for improving solar output and efficiency

Solar panels don’t function the same under all conditions.

This can be due to various factors, such as installation area and angle, which can impact your solar panels’ output. Their efficiency may also vary depending on the type and model.

Fortunately, there are various ways to enhance your solar output and efficiency once you have installed a solar energy system.

Here are four tips for maximizing your solar panels’ production and efficiency for optimal return from your investment.

Hire a professional solar panel installer

A solar energy system is a huge investment, whether you are a homeowner or a business person.

It’s best to work with a professional residential or commercial solar installer while installing your solar panels.

This will ensure you get the best orientation, coverage, minimal shading, and maximum efficiency from the entire system’s panels and components.

Avoid installing your solar panels in shaded areas

Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight, meaning shades can impede their electricity output.

Even if only one photovoltaic cell is shaded, it can affect the energy produced by its adjacent cells since it acts as a resistor.

The main culprits in shading solar panels are tall trees and buildings.

Therefore, spend some time planning and analyzing the installation site and ensure that shade will not be an issue.

If shades are being cast by part of your building or trees can’t be removed, use a microinverter to maximize energy output from the unshaded areas.

Clean your solar panels regularly

A solar panel has no moving parts, meaning it requires little to no maintenance. However, it’s essential to give it proper care.

Dust and dirt particles may accumulate on your solar panel’s surface, making it less efficient, so you should clean it regularly to enhance its efficiency.

How often you should clean your solar panels depends on how much it costs to clean them and how regularly it rains in your area.

Aim to clean your solar panels at least once a year to avoid solar panel degradation.

Schedule preventive checks

To maintain the maximum performance of your solar panels, schedule a preventive check every three months.

Professional technicians can check whether all modules and components are properly functioning and identify any discrepancies in the panel output that might otherwise go unnoticed.

If possible, check the power output via an online monitoring system regularly.

This can help you know which panels are generating how much energy every day, troubleshoot if there are small issues, or seek help in case of major problems.

Allow airflow gaps

Nearly everyone loves the look of solar shingles, but your roof can easily reach temperatures of 150 degrees. Unfortunately, this extreme heat can hinder your solar panels’ performance.

Letting plenty of air under the panels is the best way to fix this issue.

Ensure space between the panel and the roof when installing your solar. This will allow airflow under the panels, thus preventing them from overheating.

Endnote

Homes and businesses are investing in solar panels more than ever to save money and protect the environment.

However, if solar panels aren’t correctly installed, monitored, and maintained, you will likely not achieve optimum efficiency when it comes to electricity output.

Fortunately, these tips can help you enhance solar panel efficiency and sustain maximum performance, saving you money in the long run.

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