Solar energy is one of the smartest investments you can make in Nigeria right now. But here is the truth: having solar does not automatically mean you will enjoy 24/7 light. Many Nigerians install solar systems and still face frequent blackouts, poor performance, or high maintenance costs. Why? Because of common mistakes that could have been avoided from the start.
Here are a few common solar mistakes and how you can avoid them:
1. Choosing the Wrong Solar System Size
One of the biggest mistakes is buying a solar system without calculating your actual energy needs. If your system is too small, you will constantly run out of stored power. If it is too big for your needs, you would have wasted money on extra capacity you do not require.
Example:
If you have just lights, a fan, and a TV, you don’t need the same system as someone running AC units, freezers, and heavy appliances.
How to Avoid It:
●Work with a professional solar installer to carry out a load audit before buying.
●List all your appliances and how many hours they run daily.
●Remember to plan for future expansion if your power needs may grow.
2. Skipping Quality for Cheap Prices
We understand solar can be expensive. But going for the cheapest option often ends up costing more in the long run. Cheap panels may lose efficiency quickly, low-quality inverters may fail after a short time, and poor batteries may die within months.
How to Avoid It:
●Invest in reputable brands like Techfine for solar panels, inverters, and batteries.
●Check product warranties and customer reviews.
●Remember: “A quality system pays for itself through years of reliable service.”
3. Poor Installation Practices
Even the best solar equipment will underperform if not installed properly. Tilt angle, wiring quality, battery ventilation, and inverter settings all affect your system’s efficiency.
How to Avoid It:
●Always use certified solar installers.
●Make sure your solar panels are placed in a location with maximum sunlight exposure.
●Request a system performance test after installation to confirm everything works as it should.
4. Ignoring Maintenance
Solar systems are low-maintenance, but they are not “zero-maintenance.” Dusty solar panels can lose up to 25% of their efficiency, and battery health can drop if not monitored. Many people install solar and then completely forget about it until something fails.
How to Avoid It:
●For best performance, clean your solar panels regularly at least a few times a year, and more often during the dry season when dust builds up quickly.
●Check your battery water levels if you use wet-cell batteries, and top up with distilled water when needed.
●Inspect the inverter and wiring connections regularly to avoid faults.
●Schedule a professional system check-up at least once a year.
5. Overloading the System
Just because your solar system can power certain appliances does not mean you should run everything at once. Overloading drains the battery faster and puts strain on the inverter.
Example:
Running your washing machine, freezer, and pressing iron together at night can quickly kill your battery life.
How to Avoid It:
●Spread out heavy appliance use throughout the day.
●Use solar-heavy appliances like freezers during daylight hours when panels are harnessing energy from the sun.
●Know your inverter’s maximum load capacity and stay within safe limits.
Solar is a long-term investment, but only if it is done right. At Nexgen Energy, we have helped design, install, and maintain solar systems that deliver on their promise. So, whether you are just starting your solar journey or looking to upgrade, we can help you get it right from day one.
