How to Lower Your Electricity Consumption After Installing Solar Panels
Many homeowners have made the switch to solar power, but not all of them are seeing the results they expected. Despite promises from solar salespeople, some homeowners are left with an overpriced solar array on their roofs and still must pay for their electricity bill. These solar systems may not overproduce as expected, and in fact, most of these installations do not even replace the homeowner’s normal consumption. If you are one of these homeowners, what can you do to reduce your consumption and achieve a zero or close to zero energy bill?
Changing Air-Conditioning Filters and Installing a Power Factor Correction Unit
One simple way to reduce your electricity consumption is by changing your air-conditioning filters every single month. Delaying filter changes can cause your HVAC system to work harder and consume more electricity. Another solution is installing a Power Factor Correction Unit if you live near businesses. This device can correct issues with energy consumption and ensure that you are receiving the energy you expect to be receiving. This could be the reason for higher-than-expected electric bills after solar installation.
LED Lights and AC Thermostat
Replacing all your lights with LED lights is another way to reduce energy consumption. LED lights draw less energy than traditional light bulbs, and they last longer too. Another solution is to evaluate the temperature you set your AC thermostat at. Setting it at 72 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit in San Antonio can significantly reduce your energy consumption, and you might not even notice the difference.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades and Foam Insulation
If these simple solutions do not work, consider more drastic measures to reduce your electric bill. One option is Elmers Home Services’ energy-efficient upgrade, which adds a TXV and compressor saver to your AC to make it run more efficiently. Another solution is adding foam insulation to your walls to increase your home’s efficiency by 30%. Finally, upgrading your HVAC system to a higher SEER rating can wipe out your electric bill and even allow you to overproduce solar energy.
Choosing an Honest Solar Company
Of course, if you have not made the switch to solar power yet, the best thing you can do is choose an honest company in San Antonio that will sell you enough solar cells to overproduce and deliver zero electricity bills from the first day your system is powered on by the Electric Company.
Conclusion
Switching to solar power can be a terrific way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your electricity bill, but it is important to make sure that you are seeing the results you expect. By following some of the solutions outlined above, you can reduce your energy consumption and achieve a zero or close-to-zero energy bill. Do not be discouraged if your solar array did not live up to its promises – there are solutions to help you achieve your goal.