A voltage optimiser could be a piece of technology you’ve heard of before, as they aren’t exclusive to solar technology. However, if you have a solar panel and battery setup, then a voltage optimiser can greatly increase the efficiency of your power generation and minimise energy wastage.
Continue reading to find out everything you need to know about them.
Industry Jargon That’s Useful To Know
Before we delve into solar optimisers, there’s some jargon related to solar power you’ll need to be familiar with:
- AC – alternating current. This is the type of power that a house or commercial premises will use.
- DC – direct current. This is the type of power that will be generated from a solar panel or solar tile.
- Voltage – the difference in electrical potential between two points. Measured in volts.
- Current – is used to refer to the flow of electricity in a circuit or how much electricity is flowing in a circuit. Measured in amperes.
- Solar Panel – a traditional solar panel that is mounted to the roof of a building.
- Solar Tile – a style of solar panel designed to function as both a generator of power and as a roof tile.
- String – a term used to describe when solar panels are set up in series to generate power and charge a solar battery.
What Is A Voltage Optimiser?
In electrical connections, both commercial and residential, the UK’s national power grid will provide a standard of 230V to properties. This is provided with a buffer of +10 per cent and -6 per cent to account for appliances or machines that require more or less than 230V to function.
A voltage optimiser is a voltage optimisation technology module that can be installed at a home or business to increase or decrease the voltage you draw from the grid to suit the appliances you use.
How Does Voltage Optimisation Work?
Optimisers for voltage work by providing your property with a series-connected transformer that allows you to change the level of voltage your property takes from the national grid.
You are able to set the voltage level higher or lower to suit your individual needs.
Why Are Voltage Optimisers Important?
Voltage optimisers are vital for those homes or businesses that want to create a more energy-efficient electrical circuit for their property.
If you find that your appliances don’t work efficiently and cut out, or you’re prone to blackouts or shut-offs, you may need to increase the voltage level you receive from the grid in order to power your machines.
If your technology works fine, it may be the case that your voltage level is too high. If this is the case, a voltage optimiser can lower the voltage level to the appropriate level for your property – saving you money.
The additional benefit of voltage optimisation is less energy is wasted, and therefore you’re also reducing your carbon footprint.
Do Voltage Optimisers Help You Save Money?
The short answer is yes. Both homes and businesses can benefit from high-grade voltage optimisers, such as the optimisers offered by Eco-Max. The Eco-Max optimisers are estimated to:
- Save domestic settings up to 15% yearly in energy.
- Have a payback potential between two to four years, with savings beginning almost immediately after installation is complete.
For businesses looking to accomplish carbon-neutral status, a voltage optimiser can save up to 1,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year.
It is always recommended that you consult a solar tech expert if choosing to invest in a voltage optimiser for your solar setup – to ensure what you save will be worth the investment.
Wanting To Invest In Solar Tech?
If you are interested in a voltage optimiser, or any kind of solar tech, then don’t hesitate to contact Smartly.
We provide all sorts of solar tech, such as:
- Solar tiles
- Solar panels
- Solar batteries
- Solar optimisers
And much more. Contact Smartly’s solar experts, who are happy to provide you with all the information you’ll need regarding our products and services.
Invest in your energy security today!
