Getting the most out of your solar panels

Here are some top tips to make the most of the free electricity being produced by your panels:

• Use electrical appliances during daylight hours rather than after dark
• Use high wattage appliances such as your electric cooker, electric shower, washing machine, vacuum cleaner, tumble dryer etc. one at a time during daylight hours
  • For example, if the washing machine is being used then wait for it to finish before taking a shower
• Charge your mobile phone, laptops or electrical toothbrushes during the daytime
• Buy low-energy bulbs for your household lights
• Unplug any appliances which are not in use
• Try to reduce your overall energy usage. A standard solar PV system is capable of meeting up to 75% of your annual electricity needs. The less electricity you use overall, the more likely it is that your system can provide all the energy you need
• Solar panels are a green source of energy so you are also helping the environment by using them.

Remember, larger appliances use a lot of electricity. You can save energy by using them one at a time.

For more information about using your solar panels, please email naila.ilyas@manchester.gov.uk or call her on 07956 696 673