Path-Q Solar

How should a planned electric clothes dryer affect a future solar estimate?

Answer

Include the planned dryer as a future load using a realistic estimate of its energy use, operating frequency, and timing. It may increase the array size that meets a future energy target, but its effect on bill reduction also depends on whether it runs during solar-producing hours.

Key points

  • Use the dryer type, expected cycles, cycle duration, and household usage assumptions.
  • Model whether drying will occur mainly during daylight, evenings, or a mixture.
  • Separate the dryer from current consumption so the estimate shows both present and future scenarios.

What it depends on

  • Dryer power and efficiency
  • Expected loads per week and seasonal use
  • Operating time relative to solar production
  • Other planned electrification or appliance changes
  • System sizing objective

Risks and trade-offs

  • Assuming maximum use can oversize the system if actual use is lower.
  • Ignoring the planned dryer can understate future demand.
  • Scheduling it in daylight may improve self-consumption but may reduce convenience.

Information you may need

  • Expected dryer model or power range
  • Estimated weekly cycles and seasonal variation
  • Likely operating times
  • Other planned changes to household electricity use

Your next step

What to do next

Request current-use and future-use solar scenarios, with the dryer modeled at its expected schedule.

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