Solar panels have been around for many years;however, it is only recently that they have become a more viable option to help power residential homes. As the technology has improved and costs have declined, people are installing solar panels on their homes more than ever before, know more about solar inverter system.
Trying to figure out how to best set up your solar panels can be a bit confusing. There are some things you can do to make sure you maximize your solar panel performance. Here are 5 tips that can help:
- Orientation
The first thing you should consider when setting up your solar panels is the orientation of your roof. You ideally want to mount your solar panels so that they face south, as this will allow them to capture the most sunlight possible throughout the day.
- Determining if you need a mounting system
Solar panels are generally mounted on racks or rails, which allows them to be easily adjusted throughout the year so that they always face south. Some racks or rails can also be motorized, so that they adjust automatically throughout the year based on sunrise and sunset times. This can be an expensive option, but it can save you a lot of time and hassle in the long run.
- Install Solar Panels on a South-Facing Roof
Installing your solar panels on the south side of your roof will give them the best access to sunlight during all times of the year. This is vital for keeping your energy costs down, as it will ensure that you’re getting the most out of each hour that you have sunlight.
- Do Not Skimp on Installation
You might be able to shave some money off of your installation by finding an installer who isn’t licensed or doesn’t have as much experience. However, if your installer doesn’t know what they’re doing, chances are that not only will you end up paying more in the long run but also you won’t get as much performance out of your panels.
- Check the wiring for damage
Wiring should be inspected and maintained regularly, especially if you live in an area that experiences cold temperatures or lightning storms. Any type of damage will disrupt the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the battery, reducing power generation and ultimately leading to system failure.
- Clean off any dirt or debris from your solar panels
This will help ensure maximum energy generation from your system. If there is any dirt buildup on the roof above your panels, you may want to consider using an air compressor to gently remove it rather than using a broom or other rough method that could cause damage to the cells underneath.
- Clean them regularly
A dirty surface can cause up to a 30% loss in energy efficiency! You can clean your panels with a gentle soap and water or with commercial products designed to remove dirt and debris from photovoltaic cells. Be sure to use a soft cloth or sponge so as not to scratch the surface.
- Align them properly
When you’re not getting optimum results, it might be because your panels aren’t perfectly facing south. A panel that’s misaligned by even just a few degrees can have a significant impact on its output. Use an app on your tablet or smartphone that shows you where true south is, then adjust the angle of your panels accordingly.
