The best time to use solar electricity at home

The useful question is not just “what time is cheapest?” It is “when do I have spare solar, and what electricity would I otherwise buy?” Matching suitable loads to available generation can help you use more of your own energy.

Start with your monitoring

Check several clear and cloudy days. Roof direction, shading, season and weather affect your generation profile. Midday is a useful starting point for many homes, but there is no universal clock setting for every roof.

Make a daytime load plan

Consider a dishwasher cycle, washing machine, suitable pool-pump schedule or EV charge. Stagger large loads so their combined demand does not exceed available generation. Using three appliances at once can draw from the grid even while the panels are generating.

Follow manufacturer guidance for timers and unattended operation. For hot water, controlled-load circuits or fixed electrical equipment, ask a licensed electrical contractor about suitable options instead of altering wiring or controls yourself.

Cooling without wasting energy

If it suits your household, modest daytime pre-cooling may reduce later cooling demand. Insulation, shading, room size and occupancy all matter. Avoid running air conditioning solely to consume energy that you do not need.

Check the tariff as well

Self-consumption avoids buying some grid electricity, but also means that energy is not exported for a feed-in credit. Compare the relevant import and export rates before choosing a schedule. A battery adds another possible use for surplus energy.

Try one change, then measure

Pick a load, adjust its timing and review imports, exports and comfort. Compare similar weather and billing periods where possible. Good decisions come from the household’s evidence, not a promise that every family should run the same timetable.

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Reviewed 2 October 2026. General information; follow appliance instructions and check your current energy plan.