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What Happens to Excess Solar Energy? What Happens to Excess Solar Energy?Latest NewsRenewables

What Happens to Excess Solar Energy?

Your solar panels are producing more electricity than your home needs. So where does the rest of that electricity actually go? It is a question we hear regularly, particularly from customers trying to understand how to make the best use of their solar PV system. The answer depends on how your system has been designed, whether you have battery storage and what export arrangements are in place. Excess solar energy does not simply disappear. Depending on the system, it can be stored in a battery for later use or exported to the electricity network. Therefore, understanding how these different parts…
Westcoast Electrical
August 14, 2026
Can I Install an EV Charger Before Buying an Electric Car? Can I Install an EV Charger Before Buying an Electric Car?Latest NewsRenewables

Can I Install an EV Charger Before Buying an Electric Car?

Many homeowners ask whether they can install an EV charger before buying an electric car. The simple answer is yes. In fact, many people choose to install their charger first so everything is ready when their new vehicle arrives. Whether you are waiting for a factory order, considering switching to electric in the future, or simply planning ahead, installing an EV charger early can make the transition much easier. At West Coast Electrical & Renewables, we regularly install EV chargers for customers across Blackpool, Poulton le Fylde, Thornton Cleveleys, Lytham St Annes and the surrounding Lancashire area who have not…
Westcoast Electrical
August 14, 2026
Can an Air Source Heat Pump Replace My Gas Boiler? Can an Air Source Heat Pump Replace My Gas Boiler?Latest NewsRenewables

Can an Air Source Heat Pump Replace My Gas Boiler?

If you are wondering whether you can replace your gas boiler with a heat pump, you are not alone. More homeowners across Blackpool and Lancashire are looking at low carbon heating as energy prices continue to fluctuate and older boilers reach the end of their lifespan. The simple answer is yes. In many homes, an air source heat pump can successfully replace a gas boiler. However, every property is different. The size of your home, the level of insulation, your heating system and your hot water requirements all play an important role when deciding if an air source heat pump…
Westcoast Electrical
August 12, 2026
Do EV Chargers Need WiFi? Everything You Need to Know in Blackpool Do EV Chargers Need WiFi? Everything You Need to Know in BlackpoolLatest NewsRenewables

Do EV Chargers Need WiFi? Everything You Need to Know in Blackpool

Many people ask whether an EV charger WiFi connection is essential before having a charger installed. If you are considering an electric vehicle charger for your home in Blackpool, it is a sensible question. The good news is that most modern chargers will continue charging your vehicle even if your internet connection is unavailable. However, WiFi unlocks a range of smart features that make charging more convenient and efficient. At West Coast Electrical & Renewables, we install EV chargers throughout Blackpool, Poulton le Fylde, Thornton Cleveleys, Lytham St Annes and the surrounding Lancashire area. During every survey, we explain how…
Westcoast Electrical
August 10, 2026
Thinking about solar for your home? Thinking about solar for your home?Latest NewsRenewables

Thinking about solar for your home?

Whether you’re planning to stay in your home for years or you’re thinking ahead to selling, we’ll design a solar system that’s right for your property, your electricity usage and your future plans. Book Your Free Solar Survey Myth vs Fact MythFactSolar panels guarantee your house will increase in value.No installer can guarantee this. Property values depend on many factors, including location, demand and the condition of the home.Buyers are not interested in homes with solar panels.Many buyers actively look for energy efficient homes that could have lower running costs.Older solar systems cannot be upgraded.Many existing systems can be upgraded…
Westcoast Electrical
August 7, 2026
What Happens if My EV Charger Loses WiFi? What Happens if My EV Charger Loses WiFi?Latest NewsRenewables

What Happens if My EV Charger Loses WiFi?

If you’ve recently had an EV charger installed or you’re thinking about getting one, you may be wondering what happens if your EV charger WiFi connection drops out. It is a common question, especially as modern chargers rely on smartphone apps and internet connectivity for many of their smart features. The good news is that, in most cases, your EV charger will still charge your vehicle even if the WiFi connection is lost. However, some of the smart functions may temporarily stop working until the charger reconnects to your home network. At West Coast Electrical & Renewables, we install EV…
Westcoast Electrical
August 5, 2026
How Often Should an EICR Be Carried Out in Blackpool? How Often Should an EICR Be Carried Out in Blackpool?ElectricalLatest News

How Often Should an EICR Be Carried Out in Blackpool?

If you’re wondering how often should an EICR be carried out, you’re not alone. Whether you own your home, rent out a property or manage a commercial building, regular electrical inspections are an important part of keeping the installation safe. An Electrical Installation Condition Report, commonly known as an EICR, checks the condition of your property’s electrical system. During the inspection, an electrician tests circuits, wiring, sockets, switches and the consumer unit to identify any damage, wear or potential safety concerns. At West Coast Electrical & Renewables, we carry out EICRs across Blackpool and the surrounding areas for homeowners, landlords…
Westcoast Electrical
August 3, 2026
Can I Install an EV Charger Outside? Can I Install an EV Charger Outside?Latest NewsRenewables

Can I Install an EV Charger Outside?

Take a look around most modern homes with an electric vehicle and you’ll probably notice one thing. The EV charger is usually installed outside. That’s because most homeowners park on a driveway rather than inside a garage. Modern EV chargers are specifically designed for outdoor installation, making them safe, practical and convenient for everyday charging. If you’re planning to install an EV charger outside, you don’t need to worry about the typical British weather. Quality chargers are built to remain outside throughout the year and include a range of safety features to protect both the charger and the user. At…
Westcoast Electrical
July 31, 2026
Can I Install Solar Panels on a Bungalow? Can I Install Solar Panels on a Bungalow?Latest NewsRenewables

Can I Install Solar Panels on a Bungalow?

Bungalows are often overlooked when people think about solar panels. In reality, they can be some of the best properties for a solar installation. Large roof areas, fewer storeys and straightforward access can all make them excellent candidates for renewable energy. If you’re considering solar panels on a bungalow, the most important factors aren’t the height of your home but the available roof space, the direction it faces and the condition of the roof itself. At West Coast Electrical & Renewables, we regularly install solar panel systems on bungalows across Blackpool, Poulton le Fylde, Thornton Cleveleys, Lytham St Annes and…
Westcoast Electrical
July 29, 2026
Can I Upgrade My Consumer Unit Without Rewiring My House? Can I Upgrade My Consumer Unit Without Rewiring My House?ElectricalLatest News

Can I Upgrade My Consumer Unit Without Rewiring My House?

A consumer unit upgrade does not automatically mean your whole house needs rewiring. In many properties, an electrician can replace an older fuse box while keeping the existing cables and circuits. However, the wiring must first pass the necessary inspection and electrical tests. Therefore, the answer to can I upgrade my consumer unit without rewiring my house depends on the condition of the existing installation. Some homes only need a modern consumer unit, while others require repairs or improvements before the new unit can be safely connected. West Coast Electrical & Renewables carries out consumer unit upgrades across Blackpool, Poulton…
Westcoast Electrical
July 27, 2026