May Heat Is On: Is Your Solar System Ready?

As we step into May, the days are getting longer, the sun is shining stronger, and the weather is heating up fast. Across many parts of California, we're already seeing those 90-degree days rolling in—and the triple digits aren't far behind. This seasonal shift is your cue to make sure your home and your solar energy system are ready to perform at their best when it matters most.

California Heat Snapshot: Fresno & Palm Desert

Fresno, CA:

• Average high temperatures in May range from 81°F to 88°F, with highs occasionally reaching up to 100°F.

• Daily low temperatures increase from 54°F to 60°F over the month.

• The percentage of time the sky is overcast or mostly cloudy decreases from 32% to 22% throughout May.

  
  

Palm Desert, CA:

• Average daily high temperatures increase from 90°F to 97°F in May, with highs occasionally exceeding 106°F.

• Daily low temperatures rise from 63°F to 69°F over the month.

• The chance of a wet day decreases from 4% at the beginning of May to 1% by the end.

  
  

These rising temperatures underscore the importance of preparing your home and solar system for the intense summer heat.

Time for a Solar System Check-Up

If you already have solar, now is the perfect time to evaluate your system to ensure everything is operating at peak efficiency before the real heat waves arrive. Here's what you can do:

• Check Your Monitoring Portal: Your solar monitoring portal (whether through your inverter or utility provider) can tell you how your system is performing. Look for any unusual dips in production, errors, or alerts. If something doesn’t look right, contact your installer or service provider for a quick diagnostic.

  
  

• Clean or Change Your AC Filters: A clogged or dirty filter can make your air conditioner work harder, using more energy and putting more strain on your system. Clean filters mean smoother airflow and a cooler home at a lower cost.

  
  

• Close Curtains & Blinds During the Day: If you're away during peak sunlight hours, keep your blinds and curtains closed. This simple step can significantly reduce indoor temperatures and prevent your AC from overworking.

  
  

• Keep Outdoor Panels Clear: Make sure your solar panels are free from debris, leaves, or excessive dust buildup. Dirty panels can lead to a loss in energy production just when you need it most.

  
  

• Inspect Your Attic Ventilation & Insulation: Good airflow and proper insulation help reduce the load on your cooling system, and in turn, increase the efficiency of your solar-powered home.

  
  

Don't Have Solar Yet? Here's What You Can Do

If you're not yet using solar energy, this is the time to seriously consider making the switch. As the heat intensifies, so will your power bill—especially if you're relying on traditional electric cooling methods.

Here are a few steps to keep your energy usage in check:

• Use Ceiling Fans Strategically: They don't lower the temperature but can make a room feel up to 4 degrees cooler. Remember to turn them off when you leave the room.

  
  

• Shift Appliance Use to Off-Peak Hours: Running your dishwasher or laundry machines in the early morning or late evening can help reduce demand during peak pricing hours.

  
  

• Seal Windows & Doors: Keep cool air inside and hot air out with proper weatherstripping and caulking.

  
  

• LED Bulbs & Smart Thermostats: Upgrading to energy-efficient bulbs and installing a smart thermostat can make a noticeable difference in both comfort and cost.

  
  

• Explore Solar Now: Getting a solar system installed before the hottest part of the summer means you'll be set up to take full advantage of the sun while reducing your electric bills. Incentives and rebates are still available in many areas—don't wait until the 100-degree days to take action.

  
  

May is the month to prepare. Whether you're optimizing your existing solar system or just starting your energy-saving journey, small steps now can lead to big savings and a cooler, more comfortable summer.

May Heat Is On: Is Your Solar System Ready?

If you have any questions, call one of our solar experts. We are ready to help you analyze your home, consumption, and situation. You can reach us at 800-859-7652

We are happy to provide all the information you will need to make an informed decision on whether or not solar is right for you. We have two locations in California in Palm Desert and Fresno ready to serve you. Since 2007, Planet Solar has been a pioneer in the solar panel and home battery installation industry with a team that comprises seasoned solar professionals with 30+ years in the home improvement, energy conservation and technical fields.

Our company prides itself on our knowledgeable, friendly, and professional solar consultants, who will help you with all your solar needs. With Planet Solar, you have found a solar installer you can trust.

May Heat Is On: Is Your Solar System Ready?