Getting the most out of your new solar system

Use energy while the sun is shining

Now you have solar you can lower the cost of your electricity bill by running power-hungry appliances and equipment during daylight hours rather than at night or early morning. You will use the free electricity from your solar system while the sun is shining. You can also avoid using energy at peak times when prices are higher. Your solar system makes the most electricity between 10am and 2pm so this is the best time to run appliances during the day.

Your solar panels will supply electricity to your home first. Unused electricity from your solar system will go back into the electricity grid. Your energy retailer may pay you a small amount (called a feed-in-tariff) for that excess power. This will appear on your energy bill. It’s important to remember that you can make better savings by running most of your electrical appliances during the day using your solar instead of buying electricity from the grid. Buying electricity from the grid can cost 3-4 times more than what you gain through the feed-in-tariff.

Use appliances during the day

Here are a few examples of high energy appliances that you could run during the day:

Dishwasher

Consider putting the dishwasher on after breakfast or lunch rather than after dinner or set the timer so it runs in the middle of the day when the electricity is free, as it is being produced by your solar panels.

Washing machine

Consider putting the washing machine on before you go out for the day. If your machine has a delayed start option, you could set it to run while you are out during the day.

Vacuum cleaner

For some people vacuuming can be a chore but can be made easier knowing you are not paying to use it. Make it a mid-morning job if you can and then put your feet up knowing it was free to run.

Heating and cooling

Consider ways to run your heating and cooling appliances efficiently. Consider turning systems off when you sleep. See the Everyday Climate Choices website for more tips.

Hot water systems

Hot water systems sometimes have timers built-in, or you can have them installed so they only draw electricity from your solar system for heating water. A water tank heated during the day from solar will stay warm all night.

Devices

It is not just the big things that make a difference, you can save further on your power bills by charging your power tool batteries and any other battery powered devices during the day. You could even charge a power bank during the day and use it to charge your phone at night.

Cooking appliances

Cooking for long times using an oven or slow cooker can use large amounts of power. You may be able to set the timer when using a slow cooker during the day, ready to eat when you get home.

Electric Vehicles

If you have an electric vehicle, it is best to charge it during the day so your solar system can charge it for free.

Get to know your solar system

Reading the manual for your solar system and learning how it functions correctly could save you money. Some key things to look out for include:

• Regularly check that all indicator lights on the inverter are on to ensure your solar system is working properly.
• Regularly check that the solar system is making as much power as you would expect. You would have received an estimated solar generation as part of your quote/installation.
• Check how much electricity your system is generating on a cloudy day versus a sunny day, and on a winter day versus a summer day. This will give you an idea of what your system can generate based on different conditions.
• Your system may come with a smart meter. If not, you might be able to get one installed. Smart meters can give you lots of information including how much power your system is generating and how much energy you are consuming during the day.

For further information on keeping your solar panels operating efficiently refer to your system manual or speak with your supplier.

Keep your solar panels and system clean and maintained

Like all appliances, solar panels and systems need maintenance and care to make sure they run efficiently and safely. Here are some tips:

Keep your panels clean: If you do notice a reduction in performance, it may be time to give them a hose down.

Keep shade away: A small amount of shade on a single panel can cut the amount of power your system generates. Keep shade from trees away from your solar panels to help them operate effectively.

Have a regular service: Accredited installers can do electrical tests and inspect your system to make sure it is running safely and efficiently.

Choose the best plan for you

Make sure that you are on the best electricity plan for your needs. Contact energy retailers to find out what plans and discounts are available. Keep a note of when your deal expires and check whether there is a better electricity plan for you.

Additional support

The ACT Government runs regular online workshops on reducing energy use with practical tips to get the best out of your solar system.

The Low Income Household Program provides free support and practical tips to help eligible low-income households reduce their energy and water bills. Energy assessors can visit your home and install draught-proofing. They can also help find ways to reduce energy use, save money and improve the thermal comfort of your home.

Borrow a Home Energy Action kit from ACT libraries. It has simple tools and energy-saving tips to help make your home more energy efficient.

Contact us

Phone: 1300 141 777

Email: homeenergysupport@act.gov.au