With Australia’s abundant sunshine, summer is the ideal season to harness the power of solar energy. However, scorching temperatures can sometimes affect the performance of solar panels. By taking proactive measures, homeowners can ensure their solar systems operate at peak efficiency. Read on for essential summer solar tips to maximise your solar efficiency in summer and reduce energy costs.
Ready to maximise your solar efficiency? Energy Matters is committed to helping Australians unlock the full potential of solar power. We have been recognised for our continued excellence in the Australian solar industry. We provide our customers with high-quality resources, insight, and access to reputable solar quotes. Contact Energy Matters today for a comprehensive assessment and solar expert advice.
Understanding solar efficiency in summer
Solar panels are designed to convert sunlight into energy effectively, but their performance can vary with temperature changes. While sunny days provide ample light, excessively high temperatures can reduce panel efficiency due to thermal stress. This phenomenon, known as the “temperature coefficient,” highlights the need to optimise solar power in hot weather.
Key summer solar tips for maximum efficiency
Implementing practical strategies can ensure that your solar system performs well during the hottest months. Below are expert-recommended summer solar tips:
1. Regular cleaning of solar panels
Regular cleaning of solar panels can significantly improve performance. Dust, bird droppings, and debris can accumulate on solar panels, blocking sunlight and reducing efficiency. In summer, these issues may intensify due to dry, windy conditions.
- Tip: Use water and a soft brush, or hire professionals for thorough cleaning. Clean panels early or late in the evening to avoid rapid evaporation and streaks.
2. Ensure proper ventilation around panels
Solar panels work best when they remain cool. Stagnant heat can reduce their efficiency, especially in hot weather.
- Tip: Install solar panels with an elevated racking system to allow air circulation underneath. This cooling effect mitigates heat buildup and ensures better performance.
3. Optimise solar panel orientation and tilt
Solar panels positioned at the wrong angle may not capture the maximum sunlight during summer.
- Tip:
- North-facing solar panels: In Australia, north-facing solar panels, including summer, receive the most sunlight throughout the year. Ensure your panels are optimally oriented to maximise sun exposure.
- Tilt angle: The ideal tilt angle for solar panels can vary depending on your location. Consult with a solar professional to determine the optimal angle for your specific region.
4. Smart energy usage
By adjusting your energy consumption habits, you can better utilise the energy generated by your solar system. Consider using energy-efficient appliances, scheduling laundry and dishwashing during off-peak hours, and optimising your air conditioning settings.
- Tip: Investing and upgrading energy-efficient appliances is a sensible way to save electricity costs and lessen environmental impact.
5. Understand your solar feed-in tariff
Familiarise yourself with your solar feed-in tariff, which determines the rate at which your electricity retailer pays you for excess solar energy exported to the grid.
- Tip: Discover your best energy deal with Energy Matters. You can quickly compare top offers in your area and find the best deal for your energy needs. Our advanced tool draws data from a trusted network of retailers, so you can easily evaluate options and choose a plan that gives you more power and better savings on electricity and gas bills.
6. Monitor and maintain your solar system
Real-time solar system monitoring can help you identify inefficiencies caused by wear and tear, weather conditions, or shading.
- Tip: Use energy monitoring apps to track performance and schedule professional inspections annually to maintain top-notch solar power in hot weather.
7. Consider solar battery storage
A solar battery storage system can store excess solar energy generated during the day during peak demand periods and summer hours. This can help you reduce reliance on grid power and maximise the benefits of your solar system.
- Tip: Use Energy Matters’ easy-to-use solar power and battery storage calculator to determine the size of your solar system with storage! Our solar calculator will generate performance information and potential savings.
We can send this information to 3 of our pre-vetted and trusted local installers in your area to receive obligation-free solar quotes.
Advantages of solar battery systems in summer
- Increased self-consumption: Store surplus solar energy instead of exporting it to the grid.
- Energy independence: Reduce reliance on the grid during peak usage hours.
- Uninterrupted power supply: Protect your home from blackouts during extreme weather events.
Energy Matters recommends integrating advanced solar storage solutions for enhanced summer performance. Check our page for our recommended solar products.
8. Invest in high-quality solar inverters
Solar inverters are the backbone of your solar system, converting direct current (DC) electricity to usable alternating current (AC). An efficient or overheating inverter can help performance.
- Tip: Upgrade to a modern, high-efficiency solar inverter to maximise energy conversion. Place inverters in shaded, ventilated areas to prevent overheating.
Ready to upgrade your solar systems and take your energy savings to the next level? Embrace the energy efficiency revolution by upgrading your solar systems and adding a battery or solar inverters with Energy Matters.
Let us discuss and choose the best quote that suits your needs and budget, and we can connect you with our trusted local installers, who will provide up to 3 FREE quotes for your business solar and home battery system.
Protecting solar panels from extreme heat
High temperatures are a double-edged sword for solar panels. While sunlight is essential, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can decrease efficiency. Here are some ways to mitigate this issue:
Install heat-resistant panels
Some solar panel models are specifically designed to perform better in hot climates, offering a lower temperature coefficient.
- Tip: Choose heat-resistant solar panels with proven durability for Australian summers.
Use reflective paints or roof coatings
Roofs that reflect rather than absorb heat can reduce the temperature around your solar panels.
- Tip: Consider reflective roof paints or coatings to keep temperatures in check and improve solar efficiency in summer.
Shade your solar inverter
Solar inverters are particularly susceptible to overheating. If they malfunction, your entire system could stop working temporarily.
- Tip: Install solar inverters under a shaded area or protective cover to shield them from direct sunlight
Beat the heat and maximise your solar efficiency with Energy Matters
Australia’s summers offer abundant sunlight, and you can harness it to the fullest with the right measures. You can ensure optimal solar power performance even in hot weather by cleaning your panels, optimising their positioning, and investing in high-quality components.
Make the most of your solar investment with Energy Matters. Energy Matters is Australia’s best solar power provider via its extensive partnership network of leading solar installers. Contact us today to explore tailored solutions for achieving maximum solar efficiency in summer and start saving on your energy bills while protecting the planet.
