Changing outdoor conditions can affect solar panel efficiency, which can result in less energy savings. While solar systems are designed to work without user intervention, there are a few things that you can do to improve their efficiency. In today’s post, local siding and solar panel company Acorn Home Improvements, Inc. shares tips on how to optimize your solar panels.
- Inspect your solar panels regularly. The photovoltaic cells on the solar panels rely on direct exposure to sunlight to collect energy. This means the cleaner the outer surface, the closer it can get to peak efficiency. Dust and small specks create a negligible decrease in solar panel output and rainfall is usually enough to keep them clean. However, large objects can sometimes make it to the roof and block a significant portion of the solar panel and affect its output — some of them include large pieces of debris, leaves and small animals. Schedule a visual inspection of your roof every month, pay attention to the solar panels on the roof, and have them cleaned by professionals if needed.
- Trim the trees in your yard. If you have trees on your property, check if they are casting a shadow on the solar panels: if it is, it’s time to have the branches trimmed by an arborist. Make it a point to trim the branches near the solar panels, as they can cause scratches on the latter’s surface. Keeping a wide clearance between the roof and the tree’s outermost branches can also help prevent damage to the roofing surface that usually leads to a premature roof replacement.
- Monitor your solar panel output. A typical solar system’s performance can be monitored through an app that’s provided by your solar panel installer. Over time, you’d be familiar with your solar system’s typical energy output, be able to tell a dip in performance, and inform your solar system provider if there are issues that need to be fixed.
- Choose panels with high concentrated photovoltaic cells. If you are getting new solar panels, look for those equipped with high concentrated photovoltaic cells (CPVs). They’re about 25% more efficient than standard photovoltaic cells, which means they can generate more energy in the long run.
Acorn Home Improvements, Inc. offers GAF Timberline Solar™, which seamlessly integrates a solar system and a GAF roofing system without affecting components like insulation. To learn more about it and our other services, give us a call at (973) 386-9604. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.