Installing solar panels on your home or business in the South East and East-Anglia is a smart, eco-friendly decision. Not only can it reduce your energy bills by up to 70%, it also helps the environment by generating renewable electricity. While solar panels systems are generally low maintenance, understanding how to monitor your system for issues and when to call in the professionals to test your panels safely helps ensure your system is running efficiently and safely from day one to year 30.
This guide will show you how to test your solar panel system efficiency safely using a monitoring app.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
Solar panels contain photovoltaic (PV) cells that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. These cells are layered with silicon, which generate an electric current when exposed to sunlight. Solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity, which is converted into usable alternate current (AC) electricity by a solar inverter. AC electricity is what is used to power your home or business.
Why Use a Solar Monitoring App?
A solar monitoring app provides:
- Real-time energy output – see how much electricity your panels are generating at any given moment.
- Performance tracking – compare daily, weekly or monthly production to expected output.
- Alerts for issues – get notified if your system is underperforming or if a panel or inverter needs attention.
- Easy maintenance – reduce the need for manual testing while keeping your system operating efficiently.
Getting Started
Before you begin monitoring your system:
- Install the app – most modern solar PV systems come with a compatible app. Check your inverter’s instructions for the correct app or ask your installer to confirm the correct app.
- Connect your system – link your solar inverter to the app using WiFi or a mobile connection.
- Check sunlight conditions – monitoring in bright, clear daylight ensures accurate readings.
How to Test System Efficiency
To evaluate your system’s efficiency through the app:
- Check daily production – the app will show the amount of energy (in kWh) you system has generated throughout the day.
- Compare with expected output – most apps provide benchmarks based on your system size and location.
- Monitor voltage and current – advanced apps allow you to see the DC voltage and current from each panel or string, similar to manual testing but much safer.
- Analyse trends – look for sudden drops in energy production. This may indicate shading, dirt or a technical fault.
- Set alerts – enable notifications for low production or system faults to quickly respond to issues.
Benefits of App-Based Testing
Using a solar monitoring app is safer and simpler than manual testing as it bypasses the need for expensive scaffolding to access the roof panels. A solar monitoring app also gives you the ability to monitor your system at your convenience, whenever you want and identify issues immediately. Comparing data across days, weeks, months or even years will help you optimise your energy usage and get the most from your solar investment, taking advantage of the free electricity, you are generating.
Tips for Maximum Efficiency
- Keep panels clean – even minor dirt or debris can reduce output of your solar panels.
- Monitor regularly – daily or weekly checks can help catch small issues before they escalate and become expensive repairs.
- Check after storms – always check your solar panels after any adverse weather conditions, including strong winds, heavy snowfall or rain and hailstones.
- Consult the experts when needed – if your app is indicating a persistent drop in efficiency, contact SolarTherm UK and we will be able to advise further.
Top tip: always contact a qualified experienced solar technician for any repairs to ensure your warranty is protected.
By using a monitoring app, you can track, test and improve your solar PV system efficiency with minimal effort. Solar panels are low maintenance, but digital monitoring gives you peace of mind that your solar PV system is performing at its best at all times.
Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?
At SolarTherm UK we are on hand to help, advice and install. Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned pro with a technical question, our helpful team of experts are happy to help.
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.
If you have an issue with your solar PV system visit our Customer Support Helpdesk for help and advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
