The festive season is upon us, and for many South Africans, that means heading off on holiday.
By Christiaan Hattingh, MD of AWPower
While ensuring your home is secure and the fridge is emptied, don’t forget about your solar system. Proper preparation ensures your system runs smoothly, saves money, and avoids any nasty surprises when you return.
Here are some key tips to help you get the most out of your solar setup while you’re away.
Let Your Solar System Run as Normal
When it comes to your solar system, consistency is key. There’s no need to switch your system off or make drastic changes just because you’re leaving home. In fact, running your system as you normally would while at home is the best approach. This consistency makes it easier to identify any unusual changes, should they occur.
Remember, most solar systems come with monitoring apps, so you can check in on your system remotely. This gives you peace of mind and allows you to address any issues quickly. To make monitoring even more reliable, consider investing in a small battery backup or power bank for your router or fibre devices. This ensures your internet connection stays active, enabling the monitoring system to keep working – even during potential power interruptions.
Also, don’t forget to load enough prepaid electricity units before you leave. While your solar system reduces your reliance on the grid, it’s always a good idea to have a backup in case of unexpected system failures or extended cloudy weather.
Should You Switch Off Your Solar System While Away?
The short answer is no if- your system is properly sized and has been running well, there’s no need to switch it off. Modern solar systems are designed to operate efficiently and reliably, even when you’re not home.
However, if you’re concerned about your inverter failing or tripping while you’re away, consider installing an automatic changeover switch for added peace of mind. This device seamlessly switches your power supply from the inverter to Eskom if the inverter fails or trips. It’s a small investment that can save you a lot of hassle.
Schedule a Pre-Holiday System Check
Just like you’d make sure your car is roadworthy before a long trip, it’s a good idea to have your solar system inspected before you go on holiday. A professional check can ensure that:
- System settings are correct
- All connections are secure
- The overall health and layout of the system are up to standard
Adjust Battery Settings for Emergencies
One simple yet effective adjustment you can make is to increase the minimum on-grid State of Charge (SOC) for your battery.
This means your battery will retain more spare capacity, which can be invaluable during unexpected local power failures while you’re away. By doing this, you ensure that your system has enough stored energy to handle emergencies.
Final Tips
- Regular Monitoring: Even while on holiday, make it a habit to check your system’s performance using the app.
- Emergency Contacts: Make sure someone you trust has access to your home and knows how to manage your solar system in case of an emergency.
- Stay Informed: If you notice any issues with your system, contact your installer or solar provider immediately for advice or assistance.