10 Ways To Increase Solar Panel Efficiency In 2023
If you’ve decided to install solar on your Central Florida property, you will want to get the most that you can out of your solar energy system. Fortunately, there are many things that you can do to increase the efficiency of your panels.
Learn more from our solar energy pros at Solar Bear Orlando!
#1. Install a Solar System with Grade “A” Monocrystalline Cells
In the world of solar energy, the quality of your photovoltaic cells has the largest impact on solar panel efficiency. Monocrystalline solar panels have the highest efficiency rating, so don’t forgo quality if efficiency is important to you.
- Panels with lower-grade cells might cost less, but they are less efficient and produce less energy. This means that they’ll cost you more to operate in the long run. Choose high quality!
#2. Invest In Anti-Reflective Coatings
Anti-reflective coatings allow solar cells to absorb more rays from the sun. Without anti-reflection coatings, more than 30% of the light that reaches your solar panels won’t be absorbed and converted into energy.
The photovoltaic cells in high-quality solar panels have anti-reflection coatings that prevent the loss of light from reflection.
- Solar cells with textured surfaces also have anti-reflective properties. When shopping for solar panels, ask your installer what steps have been taken to control reflection.
#3. Hire a Certified Installer
A professional installation company like Solar Bear Orlando will ensure that your solar system works at peak efficiency. In the United States, look for installers that are certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Beyond certification, make sure that any installer you hire has the insurance and licenses that are required by the area where you live.
- Check into a solar provider’s background to ensure that they have the experience and a positive reputation in the solar community.
#4. Orient Solar Panels for Maximum Exposure
Since we live in Florida, you should orient your panels to face geographic north, while in the northern hemisphere, you should orient them to face geographic south.
- The orientation of the panels also depends on how you are using your solar energy. If you are powering your home with solar, you will get more value from the energy that is collected later in the day.
- If you can’t have your solar panels facing north, face them west, since that is the direction that the sun sets. If those aren’t an option, orient them east if that’s your only option.
#5. Calculate the Best Angle for Your Latitude
The closer your panels are to the equator, the steeper their angle should be. Your geographical latitude will determine the angle at which your panels will be most efficient and receive the most direct sunlight over the course of a year.
- If you are installing your solar panels on a sloped roof, you should include that angle as well. If your roof has a 20-degree slope, and your panels need to be at a 40-degree angle, you should have them installed at a 20-degree angle on the roof.
#6. Set Up Your Panels to Track the Sun
Tracking the sun allows your solar panels to absorb maximum energy from the sun. If you have a ground-mounted solar array, trackers allow your panels to follow the sun so they can absorb the most rays.
These systems are most common in commercial solar farms, but there are smaller trackers that allow your panels to arc from east to west, following the sun from the moment it rises to when it sets.
#7. Trim Trees that Shade Your Panels
Solar panels are most efficient if they get direct sunlight. Observe your panels throughout the day and notice if there are any nearby trees that shade them. When shaded, solar cells can’t absorb any light.
#8. Reduce the Number of Devices Using Solar Power
Using less solar power puts less of a drain on your batteries. Generally, if you aren’t running at full power, you can use your stored energy for longer. It is also more cost-effective to use less power for several hours, as opposed to using maximum power for a shorter period.
- Don’t run the dishwasher at the same time as the washing machine. You might also want to turn off lights in rooms that you aren’t using or unplug electronics when not in use.
#9. Install Backup Solar Batteries
Put your panels and storage batteries near each other to reduce costs. Any energy that you aren’t able to store will be lost, which will be detrimental to your panels’ efficiency. Lithium-ion battery storage systems can store the energy absorbed by your panels so you can use it even when the sun isn’t shining.
#10. Clean Your Solar Panels Once or Twice a Year
Wash your panels with water and a non-abrasive sponge at least a couple of times a year. This will clear off the bulk of the dust and debris that are blocking your solar panels so they can perform their best.
Avoid pressure washers which can damage the surface of the cells.
- Cleaning your roof-installed solar panels can be dangerous. If you are uncomfortable, ask your installer to recommend a cleaning company.
Central Florida Solar Installations
Ready to join the solar revolution? You’ve found the right team! With several years of experience in the solar industry, our team at Solar Bear Orlando is here to help you harness the energy from Florida’s sunshine!
Ready to get started? Call Solar Bear Orlando for an installation quote today at (727) 471-7442!
