Installing solar panels on your property is a smart way to save on energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
However, before making the investment, it is essential to consider a few key factors to ensure you are getting the most out of your solar panels.
In this blog post, we will discuss three important things to keep in mind when installing solar: shading and performance, tilting and orientation, and the size of the system.
The electricity generated by your solar system is impacted by the amount of sunlight your panels receive.
The more your panels are covered by shade, the less energy your system will generate.
The effectiveness of your solar system also depends on where you live and how much sunlight your property receives throughout the year.
If your property receives a decent amount of sun for most of the year, it is worth getting an assessment from a solar provider.
A qualified solar provider should be able to estimate how much energy your system could produce and how much shading may affect its performance.
Tip: Using microinverters or power optimisers on the panels, instead of relying on a single string inverter, can help reduce the impact of shading issues.
Speak with your solar provider to see whether this could be a suitable solution for your solar system if you are concerned about shade.
For properties in the southern hemisphere, a north-facing roof is generally optimal for solar production.
This orientation helps maximise the amount of usable sunlight your solar panels can receive throughout the day.
Tilt frames may cost a little extra, depending on how many panels are included in the system and how the installer prices the labour and parts required.
In most cases, panels are installed at the existing angle of the roof unless the roof is completely flat.
For flat roofs, panels should usually be installed with a tilt to help improve performance and allow rain to wash away dust and debris more effectively.
Flat installation is possible; however, dust and debris are less likely to be washed off when the panels are not tilted.
There are several factors to consider when deciding on the size of your solar system, including your budget, roof space, energy consumption patterns, and future plans.
If you are looking to expand your system in the future, consider choosing a solar solution with expansion capability for batteries and electric vehicles.
This can give you greater flexibility as your energy needs change over time.
It is not always easy to calculate the exact capacity you will need for your solar panels.
While the guide below can provide a rough starting point, it is still best to speak with a solar provider for a proper assessment tailored to your property and energy usage.
By considering these three factors, you can make an informed decision about whether to install solar and how to set up your system for the best possible performance.
You can also reach out to our friendly energy experts to get customised solar solutions designed for your exact needs.
