How to Make the Most of the Solar Energy Your Panels Capture

Having solar panels on your home is a great way to capture renewable energy and reduce your monthly power costs. But the installation of those panels isn’t the end of the story—are you taking all the steps you can to maximize the efficiency of your solar panels so you can get the most renewable energy out of your system? Even if you don’t need more solar energy because you are already getting enough to cover your power needs, you may be able to sell excess energy back to the local utility company, so getting more out of your system is financially beneficial. Plus, like most anything you buy, solar panels can degrade over time, so it’s important to take steps to ensure they continue to produce enough power.

A side note: this blog is discussing solar panel efficiency in terms of getting the most energy out of your panels, not the rated “efficiency” of a solar cell in terms of its capacity to convert sunlight into energy.

Work with a Reputable Installer

Some of the biggest issues with solar panels not producing as much energy as they potentially could are related to problems with installation. Panels installed in the wrong place where they are shaded for too much of the day, or at the wrong angle to be able to capture the maximum amount of solar energy throughout the day and throughout the year can impact your system’s output. Optimal angles are determined by your location (latitude) and other factors, so it’s not a one-size-fits-all installation method. Working with a company that has a good reputation for quality (like Intermountain Wind & Solar) can definitely help.

A good installer will also make sure your panels have the right amount of space between to allow for proper airflow so the panels will remain as cool as possible during hot summer weather, which can affect how well your panels convert solar energy.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Weather and other things can affect performance, especially things like snow, ice, and hail. Anytime you experience severe weather you should have someone check your panels for any damage and get it repaired right away. When snow and ice build up you want to clear them off so they don’t block your panels from the sunlight during winter months. Schedule maintenance at least once a year to check your panels for any damage that you can fix early before it becomes a significant problem that affects your panels’ energy output.

Keep Panels Dust- and Dirt-Free

Accumulated dust, dirt, or other debris on your panels can impact efficiency, so make it a habit to regularly clean your panels to keep them working well. If you cannot safely get on your roof to access the panels, you may be able to get a tool to cleaning them from the ground or you can hire a professional.

Find out more about how you can maximize your solar energy generation and how you can keep those panels working efficiently by calling Intermountain Wind & Solar today.

Power Your Home with Solar

Power Your Home with Solar

Get in touch with our experts now!
Schedule a consultation
Power Your Home with Solar
Solar reviews
Utah Dolar Energy
Top Solar Contractors
Utah Clean Energy
Accredited Business

"All of the photos on this website are of real projects that Intermountain Wind & Solar has designed and installed.
We are proud to show off and stand behind our work."

chevron-down linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram