Solar power is a fantastic way to reduce electricity bills and lower your carbon footprint. However, without a battery storage system, excess solar energy generated during the day is sent back to the grid rather than stored for use at night. To maximise the benefits of your solar system, it’s important to adjust your electricity use to align with peak solar production times. Here are some practical tips from SolArk Electrical to help you get the most out of your solar system.
1. Use Appliances During the Day
Since solar panels generate the most power between 10 AM and 4 PM, aim to use high-energy appliances during these hours. Schedule or manually run appliances such as:
- Washing machines
- Dishwashers
- Dryers
- Ovens and stoves
- Pool pumps
- Air conditioners
By shifting your electricity use to daylight hours, you reduce reliance on the grid and make the most of your solar energy.
2. Take Advantage of Timer Functions and Smart Plugs
Many modern appliances have built-in timer functions that allow you to schedule them to operate during peak solar hours. Alternatively, smart plugs and home automation systems can help control appliances remotely or set them to run automatically during the day.
Cooking can be one of the biggest energy users in a home. Where possible, prepare meals during the day to make use of solar energy. Slow cookers, air fryers, and ovens can be used while your panels are producing maximum power, reducing the need for electricity in the evening.
Heating and cooling systems consume a large amount of electricity. Without a battery, consider running your air conditioner or heater during the day to pre-cool or pre-heat your home. This way, your house remains comfortable in the evening without drawing electricity from the grid.
If you have an electric hot water system, adjusting its heating schedule can make a big difference. Consider installing a timer or using a solar diverter to heat water during the day when solar energy is abundant, rather than at night when grid electricity rates may be higher.
Since your solar system stops generating power at sunset, being mindful of energy use in the evening can help lower your electricity costs. Simple ways to cut back on nighttime energy use include:
- Switching off unnecessary lights
- Using energy-efficient LED bulbs
- Running appliances only when necessary
- Using blankets or ceiling fans instead of heaters and air conditioners
Using a smart energy monitoring system or your inverter’s app can help you track your energy consumption and solar production in real time. This allows you to adjust your habits and make informed decisions about when to use electricity-intensive devices.
Many electricity providers offer feed-in tariffs for excess solar power sent to the grid. Reviewing different plans can help you find the best rates, ensuring you get the most value from your system even without a battery.
What this means:
While a battery storage system can enhance the benefits of solar power, adjusting your electricity usage can still make a significant impact. By running appliances during peak solar hours, managing heating and cooling efficiently, and monitoring your energy use, you can maximise your savings and reduce reliance on the grid.
For expert advice on optimising your solar system, contact SolArk Electrical—your trusted solar specialists in Perth.
