"Getting the Best Out of Your Solar Panels – A Guide for Cork Homes & Farms"
At Cronin Solar, we don’t just install Solar PV systems across Cork—we make sure our customers get lasting value from their investment. Whether you've just had your panels fitted or you've been enjoying solar energy for a while, here are some simple, practical tips to help you maximise performance and savings from your system.
1. Monitor Your Usage – Use More Power When the Sun’s Out
Solar energy is most abundant during daylight hours. Try to schedule high-usage appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, or electric showers during sunny periods. This way, you use the energy you're generating, rather than pulling from the grid.
Pro tip: If you’re not home during the day, consider a timer or smart plug to run appliances while your panels are generating power.
2. Keep Your Panels Clean and Clear
Solar PV panels are low-maintenance, but not no-maintenance. A buildup of dirt, bird droppings, or leaves can reduce efficiency. In most cases, natural rain will do the job, but if you're in an area with a lot of trees or dust, an occasional clean (once or twice a year) can make a real difference.
3. Track Performance with a Monitoring App
Most modern systems include a monitoring tool or app that shows you how much energy your system is producing. Use this data to spot trends, track savings, and adjust your habits for maximum benefit.
At Cronin Solar, we’ll walk you through how to use your system’s app before we leave the job.
Here at Cronin Solar we use Solis Cloud to allow our clients to view their systems .
4.Stay Informed About SEAI Grants & Updates
Government supports and solar technology are always evolving. We keep on top of SEAI grant updates and tech improvements—so if you’re a past customer, feel free to reach out to see if there’s anything new that could benefit you.
Apply for the SEAI Grant to get up to €1800 in savings on your Solar installation with us .
3. Add a Battery for Bigger Benefits
While not essential, adding a solar battery allows you to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night. This helps increase self-consumption, reduce reliance on the grid, and improve long-term savings.
Ask us about battery options—our team can assess whether it’s a good fit for your setup and budget.
Final Thought from the Cronin Solar Team
Getting solar is just the beginning. With a few simple habits and a bit of guidance, you can increase your system’s efficiency, save more money, and reduce your carbon footprint even further.
If you have any questions about your system—or you're just considering solar—don’t hesitate to contact our team here in Kilbrittain. We're always happy to help!
023-8849233 Craig@croninelectrical.com