Sun rays are in the spotlight of everything we are going to say below. They are at the base of the energy production in a photovoltaic panel whatever format we use for obtaining that energy. But having a PV system does not mean we will create a profitable business.

The panels’ location, the soil and climatic conditions or the energy storage will dictate the efficiency of our system. Grab a pen and take some notes of the following tips to get the highest possible yield from your PV system:

1. Search for the appropriate panels and hire a qualified team to install them

It’s not always easy and the variety of products is increasing. But it is essential to choose the best system to meet our needs. From single or multi-cell arsenide to crystalline silicon or dye-sensitive cells, there are plenty of technologies to choose from, each one with different efficiency levels. Once you have chosen them, make sure you hire a professional team to install the system correctly. An angle between 18 and 36 degrees is typically the best spectrum for maximum sunlight exposure. However this also depends on the geography where the installation occurs.

2. Choose the right place to install them

It is not always easy to choose the best spot to install our PV system. But it is crucial to take into account several factors that will interfere with the operation and efficiency of our panels. First of all, the soil and the exposure to the place where we are going to place them. If possible, should avoid installing our solar park in regions where it is recurrent snowing or hailing. Places with very dusty soil are also to be avoided. Shaded areas are not recommendable either, since it is the sunlight that we will need abundantly. Therefore, look for areas away from trees, chimneys or any other structure that can create shade. When placing the panels, also pay attention to their orientation. Depending on the area of the globe, it is advisable to orient your system to the south or west (if you belong to the northern hemisphere), to grant it the optimal sunlight. But the abundance of solar rays is not synonymous with greater efficiency. The temperature to which the panels are exposed can interfere with energy production. Different solar systems react differently to operating temperature. We must always sure that there is proper spacing between the floor or roof where the panels are installed and the panels themselves so that the air can circulate.

3. Clean and check your PV system regularly

One of the factors that ensure greater efficiency in our set of panels is the regular cleaning and maintenance of them. A periodic and technical check is extremely important, as well as the use of products that clean efficiently any dirt that may be on the panels and minimize its accumulation. The use of water by itself is not the most indicated since it does not guarantee the total elimination of residues and does not prevent the appearance of others. Products that clean and minimize these residues and leave the panels clean for longer are the most indicated.

4. Make the best use of the sun and store energy

Solar energy production has numerous advantages when compared to other types of production. The fact that it is a completely renewable and infinite energy is perhaps one of the greatest benefits for the consumer but there is an important aspect to be taken into account. As the name implies, we can only obtain this energy during the day, when we have the sun at our disposal. Still, we can easily guarantee that we have energy available for several days if we know how to make the best use of the sun’s rays. Whenever possible, charge all your equipment during the day - this will allow you to return the energy spent, often on the day itself. It is also advisable to program your equipment - such as washing machines and dishwashers - to work during the day. In parallel, invest, if possible, in a battery with large storage capacity so that you can enjoy the energy you need at times of greater consumption or blackouts.

Do you have any suggestions or topics about the solar universe you would like to read here? Reach us by email (and go solar)!