Using solar energy to power your house is an effective way to lower your utility bills and reduce your home’s carbon footprint. However, there’s often a slight learning curve in figuring out how to most efficiently harness the energy produced from your solar panels. Here are a few changes you can make to get more out of your panels and rely less on the grid.

How to Use Solar Energy More Effectively

1. Cut Down on Electricity Usage

Most likely, you decided to install solar panels on your house to reduce your reliance on the grid and lower utility costs. Build on this goal by swapping energy-hogging appliances—like incandescent lightbulbs and gas or electric water heaters—with those that either use less energy or are compatible with your panels.

2. Stop Energy Vampires

Many electrical devices slowly continue to use energy, even when they are not in use. Stay in charge of where your solar energy is diverted by unplugging phone chargers, TVs, computers, and appliances when they’re in standby mode or not connected. You can also plug these devices into smart power strips, which automatically shut off when nothing is in use.

3. Use Demanding Devices During the Day

The washing machine, dishwasher, and water heater use a lot of electricity, so use these appliances in the daytime when your solar panels produce the most output. If your HVAC system—the most significant energy user in most homes—is also connected to the solar energy generator, consider putting it on a timer. That way, it won’t run when no one is home and kicks on less frequently the rest of the day.

If you’re considering solar panels for your home, let Star City Solar in Miamisburg, OH, help you harness the power of the sun. Star City Solar services Dayton, Cincinnati, and the rest of south-central Ohio. Their trusted technicians will help you choose between ground or roof panels so that you find the perfect renewable energy solution for your home. They can even estimate your annual utility savings beforehand. Learn more about their services online, or call (937) 572-5497 today to schedule an appointment.