Domestic Solar

Domestic solar refers to the use of solar panels installed at residential properties to capture the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity. This environmentally-friendly solution reduces reliance on traditional power grids and fossil fuels, promoting a sustainable source of energy.

Opting for domestic solar has several advantages:

• Cost Savings: Reduction in electricity bills as you generate your own power.
• Environmental Impact: Decreases your carbon footprint, contributing to cleaner air and conservation of natural resources.
• Energy Independence: Reduces dependency on external energy suppliers and increases resilience against power outages.
• Property Value: Potentially increases the value of your home, as solar installations are becoming a sought-after feature for homebuyers.

Domestic solar systems consist of photovoltaic (PV) panels, an inverter, and a power grid connection. The PV panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. This DC electricity is then converted to alternating current (AC) by the inverter, making it usable in your home. Excess energy can be stored in batteries or fed back into the grid, often resulting in credits from the power company.

The size of the solar system you need depends on several factors:

• Energy Usage: Your current electricity consumption patterns.
• Roof Space: The amount of unshaded area available for panel installation.
• Budget: How much you’re willing to invest initially. Typically, a UK home may require a system between 3 to 8 kilowatts to effectively reduce electricity bills.

Installation time can vary based on the size of the system and the specifics of your property. Typically, the installation of a domestic solar system can be completed within 1 to 3 days once all assessments and preparations have been made.

Domestic solar systems are relatively low maintenance, which makes them an even more attractive option for homeowners. Here are the key maintenance tasks to keep in mind:

• Cleaning Panels: Regular cleaning is necessary to ensure that the panels are free from dust, debris, and any other obstructions like fallen leaves or snow, which could impede their efficiency.
• System Monitoring: It’s important to regularly check the inverter and other system components to ensure they are operating correctly. Many systems come with monitoring software that allows you to check your system’s performance from your computer or smartphone.
• Periodic Inspections: Arranging for professional inspections periodically can help catch and rectify any potential issues early, such as wear and tear or electrical faults, ensuring the system continues to operate efficiently.

By maintaining your solar system well, you can maximize its performance and lifespan, contributing to both environmental sustainability and long-term cost savings.