Set your timers to run during the day
Set timers to flick on energy-intensive appliances – like pool or spa pumps and hot water systems – when your solar panels are doing the heavy lifting. If your solar panels face north, they tend to get the most energy between 10am and 2pm. If they’re east facing, they tend to get the most sun in the morning, and west-facing – you guessed it – tend to generate the most during the afternoon.
Take advantage of EV smart charging
If you have an electric vehicle (EV) smart scheduling can help you get more from your solar. Powered by the Origin app, our smart scheduling feature allows you to choose when you charge your EV, allowing you the option to reduce demand on the electricity grid and maximise the value from your existing solar panels.
There are two default scheduling options for EV charging, both giving you the freedom to choose the method that best suits your needs. In addition, the Smart Schedule preset option utilises historical data to forecast and schedule your EV charging. Our PowerSaver feature also helps you avoid charging between 3pm to 9pm – which could save you up to $180 a year on your electricity bill!
Understand your solar usage
While tips and tricks are great to know, how can you convert them into healthy solar usage habits? We can help you understand when you’re using energy from your solar system and when you’re drawing from the grid through My Account and the Origin app. You can find useful data like how much energy you’re using and how much that is costing you, in a convenient hourly, daily and monthly view, and tweak your usage habits accordingly.
Many solar inverters also have apps that provide “live stream” solar generation information. Check your inverter brand for details on managing your solar usage versus purchasing energy from the grid.
Clean your system regularly
Most things are better when they’ve had a clean and your solar panels are no exception. In fact, dirty solar panels can lose 20% of their energy output. We recommend getting your panels professionally cleaned every 6-12 months to remove any dust, bugs and dirt that may have accumulated on your roof. This can also be a great time to trim any branches or shrubs nearby to ensure they’re not hindering your panels with shade.
Time your chores
Whilst you may not be able to time all of your chores, life happens after all, timing your most energy-intensive ones can lead to savings on your energy bill. Hold off putting on the washing, dishwasher and clothes dryer until mid-morning. As these tasks draw so much power, it’s best to do them when your system is reaping the benefits of the sun. If you’re not lucky enough to be working from home, some appliances have scheduling options built into them – like smart washing machines.
If you can, focus on completing one task at a time rather than multitasking. By using one major appliance at a time, you can conserve costs by maximizing solar panel output and drawing less from the grid. For example, consider vacuuming after your dishwasher finishes cleaning.
Is it time to upgrade your solar system?
If you already have healthy solar usage but are still seeing more orange than green in your usage data in the Origin App, it could be time to think about upgrading your solar system.
