Keeping your home energy efficient is one of the best ways to reduce utility bills and maximise the benefits of your solar panels. At SolarTherm UK, we know an annual home maintenance check goes far beyond simply cleaning your solar panels, every part of your property plays a role in how efficiently it uses and retains energy.
If you’ve noticed your energy bills rising with no additional usage or want to make the most of your solar investment, you home may be losing heat or wasting power. Use this comprehensive list to identify any issues so they can be resolved swiftly this winter.
Annual Solar Panel System Health Check
A well maintained solar PV system will deliver efficient generation for decades, modern solar panels are built to last with many generating electricity for up to 40 years. To keep you system working at its best we recommend following this simple and easy checklist:
- Carry out a quick visual inspection every couple of months
- Look for cracks, chips, shading or debris on your panels
- Check for loose or damaged wiring, connectors or signs of nesting under the panels
- Check your solar inverter for signs of dust, wear and rust
- Use your monitoring app to look for unexpected decreases in output
A thin layer of surface dust is expected, especially if there has been no recent rainfall, but anything thicker can cause significant reduction in efficiency and output. If you see any signs of debris or dirt, scheduling a professional solar panel clean will keep your system working at its best.
Inspect Roof and Loft Insulation
Good insulation is essential to prevent heat loss and to ensure the clean energy your solar panels are producing isn’t wasted. Each year you should be checking your loft for bare patched or compressed insulation, signs of shifting, damp or pest activity and that your insulation still measures to the UK recommended level of 270mm.
If your insulation looks worn, thin or damaged, then topping it up can dramatically improve energy retention and reduce reliance on your heating system. If you notice any evidence of pest activity, consulting with a local pest controller will help resolve any potential issues from unwanted pests.
Service Your HVAC or Heat Pump System
Heat pumps and HVAC systems move heat rather than generating it, making them highly efficient, but only when maintained properly. If you’re pairing your solar panels with a heat pump or HVAC system, keeping the system well maintained will not only reduce your home’s overall energy consumption, but will reduce the amount of solar power required to keep it running, making it more efficient in winter months when there is less solar power available.
To keep your heat pump or HVAC system running smoothly:
- Inspect filters monthly, especially during high usage seasons
- Watch for dust, leaks, pests or ductwork damage
- Book a professional annual service before the peak heating or cooling season
Air Sealing and Draught Proofing
Draughts are one of the UK’s biggest causes of unnecessary heat loss. If you feel a draught despite closed doors and windows, it’s time to check your draught proofing. Inspect windows and doors for broken seals, replace any that have failed. Brush strip excluders and keyhole covers can be fitted to prevent heat loss through letterboxes and keyholes. If you have bare floorboards, look to seal any gaps and make use of rugs to prevent heat loss through gaps between the floorboards.
Affordable materials such as rubber seals, brush strip excluders can cheaply prevent heat loss. Soft furnishings such as rugs and heavy curtains can also be used to prevent energy waste. These little upgrades can usually mount up to significant savings on your energy bills.
Check Windows and Door Glazing
Old and damaged glazing can waste a significant amount of heat. Single glazed windows lose heat twice as fast as double glazing, costing homeowners more every year. When inspecting your windows look for misty or fogged up panes, cracked frames and worn out seals. Fogging typically means that the insulating gas (usually argon or krypton) has escaped, reducing your window’s thermal performance. Upgrading your glazing can lead to instant improvements in efficiency and comfort and save up to £150 a year on energy bills.
Manage Outdoor Shading and Solar Gain
Shading is one of the most common (and avoidable) causes of decreased solar generation. Each year, check your solar panels and roof for overhanging branches, growing vegetation and structural shadows that change with the seasons. Trim branches that are near your roof, remove any climbing plants that are infringing onto your rooftop and ensure your solar array is getting maximum exposure to sunlight throughout the year.
Track and Benchmark Your Energy Usage
Smart meters are now standard across most UK homes, providing real time insight into your electricity usage. Your smart meter can be used to record and track your monthly usage, compare year on year patterns, identify sudden increases and spikes in energy use. Unexpected spikes may indicate problems such as poor insulation, malfunctioning appliances or inefficient thermostat settings.
Ready to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient?
A more energy efficient home isn’t just cheaper to run, it’s better for the environment and helps you make the most out of your solar PV system.
If you’re considering upgrading, installing new solar panels or adding solar battery storage, contact SolarTherm UK for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
