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Shining light on sustainable living: the power of solar panels in Eccleston Homes 

October 13th, 2023

In today’s fast-paced world, eco-friendly living and making sustainable choices is more important than ever. At Eccleston Homes, we’re all about changing the game in how we build and live in our homes. Our energy-efficient homes are packed with green tech, with one of the most prominent features being solar panels.

These panels not only reduce your carbon footprint but also significantly slash your energy bills. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the benefits of choosing solar panels for your Eccleston Home, explore how they work and provide valuable insights into the world of sustainable living.

The science behind the magic

So, first and foremost, what are solar panels and how do they work? Well, Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels work by capturing sunlight and transforming it into electricity. These panels are equipped with photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into direct current – also known as DC – electricity. This generated DC electricity is then converted into alternating current or AC electricity, suitable for powering your home, thanks to the help of an inverter. Still with us? It’s basically science in action, turning sunlight into a valuable energy source.

When it comes to your home, solar panels are generous contributors. On sun-soaked days, they can produce more electricity than your home consumes. In these cases, the surplus electricity flows back into the grid, benefiting other users too. This generous gesture is known as ‘exportation,’ a way for your home to give back to the broader electrical network. Solar panels don’t just rely on direct sunlight, they even generate electricity on cloudy days, think of our homes as mini power stations!

Our solar panels even prioritise using the electricity they generate within your home. When there’s a demand for electricity, the inverter ensures that solar electricity is utilised first. And if there’s not enough solar electricity, your home automatically draws from the grid, with your electricity meter accurately recording your usage.

Reducing your reliance on the grid

While solar panels are remarkable, it’s important to remember they won’t single-handedly power your entire home. They do, however, play a vital role in reducing your reliance on the grid.

You may also want to consider investing in battery storage systems which allow you to store surplus solar energy for later use. By doing so, you can lower your grid dependence, utilise the stored energy during the evening, and even earn money by selling excess energy back to the grid. Don’t forget, without a battery storage system, the electricity generated must be used immediately, or it will go unused.

But how will you know how much energy your panels are producing? Enter the generation meter. It’s your real-time monitor, featuring a flashing red light that speeds up when your system is hard at work under a bright sun. In a nutshell, it’s your way of keeping tabs on your solar panel’s productivity.

With a smart meter, you can also track and report your household’s energy consumption, helping you make informed decisions about your energy use.

Here’s a handy tip: If you have a smart meter, you can enroll in the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) with your electricity supplier. This program allows you to get paid for the surplus solar electricity you export to the grid, incentivising your eco-friendly efforts.

Safety first

Rest assured, our solar systems are covered by a warranty. All you’ll need to do is ensure you register your system within 90 days of purchasing your property or commissioning the system to activate a 12-month parts and labor warranty.

The good news is, solar panels are remarkably low-maintenance. With no moving parts, they require minimal servicing, except for occasional cleaning. Be sure to keep an eye on any nearby trees that may cast shade on the panels, though. To be on the safe side, consider contacting your insurance provider to include the system in your current policy. This extra protection can offer peace of mind in unforeseen circumstances.

Speaking of cleaning, while solar panels are designed to self-clean in the rain, certain conditions – like excessive dirt or bird droppings – might mean a periodic clean is needed. It’s best to hire professionals, such as window cleaners, to handle this task.

Lastly, safety is paramount when dealing with solar panel systems. We’d advise avoiding any attempts at DIY repairs, disconnections or removals, as there’s a risk of electric shock. Always consult with professionals – like Eco2solar or a qualified electrician – before undertaking any work on your solar panel installation.

We’re dedicated to sustainable living through the power of solar panels and green technologies. Our energy-efficient properties are designed to reduce your carbon footprint while ensuring you enjoy the comfort of an eco-conscious lifestyle.

By understanding the ins and outs of solar panels and how to get the most of out their benefits, you can embark on a journey toward sustainability that benefits both you and the environment. Join us in a brighter and greener future for our homes and the planet.