Optimizing your Solar Experience
Congratulations on joining our ever-growing solar family here at Wells Solar! You are now part of a group of homeowners that value saving money, resources, and the environment by putting a solar system on your property. We would like to give you some tips to ensure you get the most out of your system. We have found that some new solar customers will leave lights and other energy draining devices running more post-solar than they did pre-solar due to assumptions that solar is taking care of it, all of it, all the time. Your system was designed based on your historical usage so, we want to make sure your energy consumption does not increase. These tips might even help decrease your usage by better utilizing your system, ideally sending even more back to the grid so you can obtain more credits from your utility company.
Optimal Time of use
Use your higher wattage items (washers, dryers, dishwashers, pool pumps) during the day, while the sun is out, and your system is producing energy. Challenge yourself to make the most of these daylight hours by ensuring you recharge your mobile devices, laptops and other gadgets during the day, unplugging them in the evening.
HVAC & Heating
Heating and cooling account for a whopping 18% of your energy bill, so make sure you are adjusting the temperature of your home when your solar panels can help. In the middle of the afternoon, use your heating and cooling appliances to bring the temperature to the right level so you can switch off in the evening.
Convert to LED bulbs
If you have not converted your conventional lightbulbs to more energy efficient LED’s, give it a try. Energy efficient bulbs may cost a bit more up front, but you will get that money back from monthly energy savings and the longer lifetime of the bulb.
Invest in Smart Plugs
Even when appliances and electronics are turned off, they can still suck quite a bit energy from your solar power system if they are plugged in. Over time it can really add up. If you don’t want to worry about constantly plugging and unplugging electronics and appliances, you can purchase smart power strips or smart plugs, which allow you to control and cut power to devices remotely through a mobile app.
Check Windows and Doors
In many homes, a significant amount of heat and air conditioning is lost through windows, doors, and roofs because these are the areas that typically have small gaps where air can escape, as well as enter from the outside. You can combat this and reduce the strain on your solar energy system by installing double- or triple-paned windows, replacing old weather stripping, and/or applying caulk. You can also insulate and save energy by adding thick drapery to windows.
Panel Cleaning
It is important to keep your panels clean. We recommend at least once a year in the spring (after Cedar and pollen season). Pollen, dirt, and bird droppings can reduce the amount of sunlight your panels take in. A simple microfiber towel and water will shine them up great. Make sure not to use any harsh chemicals, as it will strip the protective layer on the face of the panel.
Tree Trimming
If tree trimming was recommended at the time of installation, it is best to keep up with this annually. How frequent you will need to trim your trees will vary based on tree variety, rainfall, etc. If there is a lot of squirrel activity in your yard, you might consider adding critter guard around your panels to keep out unwanted varmints and protect the underside of the system.
About Wells Solar
Founded in 2014 in Austin, Wells Solar & Electrical Services is a family-owned establishment committed to installing high-quality solar power solutions that everyone can afford. Thanks to special solar programs available in Texas, you may be able to trade the money you’re spending on power bills for a solar finance payment and realize net savings each month! Contact Wells Solar to learn more.
