Arizona is built for solar power. With long, sunny days all year long, homeowners and business property owners can install solar panels that cover most or all of their electricity needs. Read on to learn tips for maximizing your solar panel efficiency.
What Is Solar Panel Efficiency?
Solar panel efficiency indicates or measures the amount of solar energy a panel can generate. The more electricity a panel can generate per square inch of surface, the more efficient it is. Solar panel efficiency depends on the nature of the photovoltaic cells within the panel, as some semiconductors and panel designs are more efficient than others.
When property owners select solar panels, there are many different efficiency factors to consider, especially when balancing costs. As a general rule, more efficient panels are more expensive. So, homeowners with only a small amount of available roof space may want to purchase very efficient panels, while homeowners with a wide expanse of roof can select moderately efficient panels and cover more of the space. Another efficiency consideration to keep in mind is degradation—solar panels age over time due to exposure to the elements, so it’s important to create a solar panel setup that is as efficient as possible while simultaneously fitting your short- and long-term budget.
5 Tips for Maximizing Solar Panel Efficiency in Arizona
When you want to maximize solar panel efficiency, your decisions at the start of the process and your long-term maintenance make a significant difference, even in a very sunny state like Arizona. Use these five tips to enjoy more free electricity from your panels.
1. Select High-Efficiency Panels
Choose the right panels for your electricity goals. High-efficiency panels provide you with more power over a smaller amount of space. Newer solar panels tend to be much more efficient than older designs, and they may also have supplemental layers of protection against the elements. Look for the highest possible efficiency ratings within your budget.
2. Choose a Good Installer
The right installer matters just as much (or even more) than the right panels. A reputable installation company will assess your roof and property, install the panels in the right orientation and angle for maximum electricity generation, and install the supplemental hardware so your home can easily draw on power. Excellent installers also put in additional features to protect birds or rats from living under the panels and damaging your equipment.
3. Remove Blockages to Allow Proper Airflow
Once your system is installed, it’s time to focus on good maintenance habits. Make sure there’s sufficient airflow around and under the panels so they don’t overheat. You can install guards after the fact or use specialty tools to clear away debris over time.
4. Clean the Panels Regularly
Routinely clean off the surfaces of the panels for optimal efficiency. Dust, dirt and stains will block the photovoltaic cells from absorbing sunlight and will drastically diminish your panels’ effectiveness. Lightly rinse the surface and gently scrub away the stains, but be careful never to use caustic cleaners or high-pressure streams of water.
5. Trim Trees Around the Panels
Trees cast heavy shade, and that will inhibit your solar panels’ performance. Trim away trees so they never block the sunlight from any angle. Also, be mindful of bushes and other shrubbery that may be blocking your panels.
Harness the Power of Solar With Solar Optimum
Choosing high-performance solar panels and regularly maintaining them are key elements in maximizing your solar potential and enjoying significant savings. To ensure you get your money’s worth on your panels, it pays to work with a professional like Solar Optimum. We have years of experience providing solar solutions for homeowners in Maricopa County and the Greater Phoenix area. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits and first steps of installing solar panels in Arizona, or download Solar Optimum’s Ultimate Guide to Going Solar for a complete overview.
