More and more homes are adopting solar panels as a popular option. This environmentally friendly solution not only promotes a friendlier approach but also gives us greater independence from conventional energy sources. Typically, photovoltaic panels are used to generate power, providing electricity or hot water. However, a lesser known fact is that solar panels can also be used to cool the home and reduce summer temperatures. This can be achieved through two different methods.
In this article, we are going to tell you how Solar panels can help you keep your house cooler in summer.
Reduce the temperature and reduce your expenses
It may come as a surprise to you, but solar panels have the ability to lower the temperature inside your home, and the reasoning behind this is quite simple. Several studies, including one conducted by students at the University of San Diego and led by Jan Kleissl, professor of environmental engineering at UC San Diego's Jacobs School of Engineering, confirmed that solar panels can effectively reduce the temperature of your home by up to 5ºC.
The idea is that solar panels act as a physical barrier to protect against the sun's rays and heat, similar to what is achieved with thermoacoustic or thermally insulated roofs. These panels block direct solar radiation that would otherwise heat the roof of the home, reducing heat transfer to the interior.
During the tests carried out for this study, roofs with tilted solar panels, flush with the roof and areas without coverage were used. Through thermal images, the researchers observed that The areas covered with panels experienced a significant reduction in heat transfer. compared to areas without coverage.
Incorporating solar panels for energy production is not only an ecological solution, but it also helps regulate the internal temperature of your home, since instead of the sun's rays hitting the roof directly, they are deflected towards the solar panels.
Solar panels as a complementary insulation system
Solar panels not only generate clean energy, but also act as a complementary thermal insulation system for your home. This is because they block direct solar radiation and reduce the temperature of the roof, which in turn reduces the heat that penetrates the interior. This feature is especially useful in summer, when outside temperatures are high. In addition, solar panels can collaborate with other insulation systems such as reflective paints and membranes to improve the energy efficiency of buildings.
A reduction of up to 5ºC in roof temperature can translate into energy savings of up to 5% in the use of air conditioning. This is because by lowering the temperature of the roof, the air inside the house stays cooler, reducing the need to use intensive cooling systems.
The empty space generated between the solar panels and the roof also plays an important role in thermal regulation. This space allows the air circulates and dissipates the heat which accumulates, further increasing the cooling effect. Studies have shown that increasing the distance between the panel and the ceiling optimizes this effect.
In fact, research from the University of San Diego indicates that the shaded area beneath solar panels may experience a temperature drop of up to 38%. This not only provides thermal comfort, but also helps reduce the use of air conditioning, positively impacting your energy bill.
Additional options for cooling your home with solar panels
One of the most innovative ways to take advantage of solar panels to cool your home is to combine them with solar-powered air conditioning systems. These systems not only allow you to enjoy pleasant temperatures without depending so much on the electrical grid, but they also significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home.
There are two main ways to integrate air conditioning with solar energy:
- Hybrid Solar Air Conditioning: This system uses solar panels to generate the electricity that powers the air conditioner. Together with an inverter, the solar energy is converted into alternating current, which is used by household appliances. If you opt for a battery-powered system, the excess energy can be stored for use at night, increasing your independence from the power grid.
- Solar Absorption Air Conditioning: In this system, the heat generated by solar panels is used to evaporate a cooling liquid, usually water and ammonia. This hot air is converted into cold air through an absorption process that cools the room. The less electricity is needed, the more efficient and economical the system is.
Additional tips to save electricity at home
In addition to installing solar panels, there are certain habits you can adopt to optimize energy consumption in your home. Below are some tips that will help you maximize your savings:
Keep your air conditioning in good condition
Make sure you perform proper maintenance. A dirty air conditioning filter can reduce its efficiency by up to 15%. Cleaning or replacing these filters periodically is essential, as well as performing a general check at least once a year.
Set the thermostat efficiently
Setting the thermostat to very low temperatures increases energy consumption. It is advisable maintain a comfortable temperature between 24-26ºC during the summer for maximum savings without sacrificing comfort.
Use natural ventilation
Ventilate your home during the coolest hours of the day, such as early morning or late evening, by opening doors and windows. Using cross ventilation can cool the interior without having to turn on the air conditioning.
Blocks direct sunlight
Blinds and curtains play a crucial role in regulating indoor temperature. Keep curtains closed during the hottest hours of the day to minimize solar heat gain.
Invest in efficient appliances
If you have to replace appliances, always opt for those that have high energy efficiency labelsThese devices are designed to consume less electricity and generate long-term savings.
Installing solar panels not only contributes to energy savings, but is also an environmentally friendly solution that helps reduce your carbon footprint. Combined with other energy-saving methods and the use of efficient appliances, installing panels can be an investment that not only reduces your bills, but also increases your thermal comfort, especially in the summer months.