If you have solar panels installed, you may wonder why your electric bill is still so high. It’s a common misconception that electric bills shrink completely once you install solar panels. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Depending on how much electricity you use in your home and the size of your solar energy system, you home and the size of your solar energy system, you may still see a fairly high electric bill each month.
So, what’s going on? “Why is my electric bill so high with solar panels,” you ask? Let’s explore this further, below.
How Do Solar Panels Really Work?
Before we dive into why your electric bill is high, it’s important to understand how solar panels work. Solar panels are typically installed on your roof, and collect sunlight throughout the day. This sunlight is then converted into electrical energy that powers your home.
The amount of electricity that your solar panels produce depends on a few factors, including:
- The size of your solar panel system
- The amount of sunlight that your panels are exposed to
- The efficiency of your solar panels
In most cases, solar panels produce enough electricity to power your home during the daytime. However, at night time or during cloudy days, you may still rely on traditional sources of electricity, like the grid.
This is where your electric bill comes in. Even if you have solar panels installed, you are still billed for the electricity you use . The amount you are billed depends upon your utility company’s rate per kWh.
In some cases, you may also be charged a monthly fee for being connected to the grid. This fee is separate from the amount that you’re charged per kWh and is often a fixed rate.
So, Why Is My Electric Bill So High?
There are a few reasons why your electric bill may be higher than expected, even with solar panels installed. Let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons.
Your Solar Panels Are Not Getting Enough Sunlight Exposure
If your solar panels are not getting enough sunlight exposure, they are able to generate as much electricity. This can be due to several factors, including:
- Solar panels need sun! Make sure that yours are not installed in a covered location.
- Your solar panels are shaded by trees or other objects.
- Your solar panels are dirty and need to be cleaned.
If your solar panels are not getting enough sunlight, you can move them to a sunnier location. Trim back trees or shrubs that may cast shade over your panels. It’s also important to clean your solar panels regularly. That way, you ca ensure that they generate as much electricity as possible.
Old or Inefficient Solar Panel System
If you have an old or inefficient solar panel system, it may not generate as much electricity as a newer and more efficient system.
Solar panels typically have a lifespan of 20-30 years. However, their efficiency degrades over time due to weather, dirt, and debris.
If you have an old solar panel system, you may consider upgrading to a newer and more efficient one. This may lower your electric bill by increasing the amount of electricity your solar panels generate.
You Have Not Optimized Your Home for Solar Energy
Another reason why your electric bill may be higher than expected is that you have not optimized your home for solar energy. There are a few things that you can do, including:
- Install solar shades or curtains.
- Using energy-efficient appliances.
- Upgrade your insulation.
- Make sure that your windows and doors are properly sealed.
Taking these steps can reduce the heat that escapes your home. This can also help to lower your electric bill and make your home more comfortable.
Your Solar Panels May Have Not Been Installed Properly
If your solar panels were not installed properly, they may not generate as much electricity as they could. This can be due to several factors, including:
- Solar panels must be positioned correctly in order to maximize their energy production. If yours are installed imperfectly, they will not produce as much energy as they could.
- Your solar panels are not tilted correctly.
- Your solar inverter is not working properly.
If your solar panels were not installed properly, you might consider having them re-installed by a professional. Unfortunately, not all solar companies are as conscientious as possible when it comes to installing solar panels. Therefore, you need to be sure that you hire a reputable and experienced solar company.
You May Be Using More Electricity Than You Think
If your electric bill is higher than you expect, the cause may simply be that you use more electricity than you realized. There are a few ways to reduce your electricity use, including:
- Turn off lights when you leave a room.
- Unplug appliances when they are not in use.
- Use energy-efficient light bulbs.
By taking these steps, you can lower your electric bill and save money on your electricity costs.
Trust Professional Installers to Maximize Your Energy Output
It costs a lot of money to install and maintain solar panels. It’s therefore important to keep in mind that solar panels are expensive, at least on the front end. Solar panels are a great way to save money on your electric bill, but they may not eliminate electricity usage, completely.
If you need to install new solar panels or repair existing ones, you should hire a reputable, experienced solar company. Atlasta Solar Center can help you with all of your solar needs, including installation, repairs, and maintenance. Contact us today to learn more about our services!
When you work with us, you can rest easy. We answer all of your questions to help you understand exactly what is going on with your solar system. We can also give you tips on how you can optimize your home for solar energy, and how to reduce your electric bill. Give us a call today to get started on saving money with solar!