Using solar panels in the winter may seem like a pipe dream. Many are asking if the winter months will bring snow and cold, so they're wondering if the panels actually work. While snow doesn't completely prevent solar panels from producing electricity it can greatly affect the system's efficiency and output. If you want to maximize your system's potential, you'll need to be prepared for winter. There are several steps you can do to protect your investment.
It is essential to identify the sun's angle before winterizing solar panels. You will need to know the angle of your solar panels to make them work correctly. You will need to consult a panel manufacturer if you don't have the right tools to calculate these angles. Check the warranty of your panel to make sure it is still valid. A solar panel manufacturer might not honor a warranty if the angle is not right.
Although the winter sun angle is identical to the summer sun angle it is slightly lower. The angle equals your latitude plus 10-15 degrees. In general, your solar panels will be placed at a 45° angle to the sun. You may need to obtain a more durable rating for your panels if you live in colder climates.
The panel with the greatest light-gathering power is the one most likely to produce more energy. Although light snow might be the best option for cleaning your panels, heavy snow can actually decrease its output.
It is tempting to get rid of the snow on your panels but you need to be careful. It could damage your panels, or worse, your safety. If you decide to remove the snow on your own, you'll need to wear heavy-duty footwear and a secure harness to protect yourself from falls. A soft-bristled brush is also a good choice to remove snow from panels.
The best winter solar panels can withstand heavy snow loads. If you live outside, make sure your system is working well throughout the winter. Although snow won't affect the system in its ability to produce electricity, it can cause problems with efficiency and weight.
The panel with the highest power output is the one which produces the most energy per hour. It's possible to make more power in winter than you do during summer. It won't be as high in winter as it would be in summer, but it is still worth it.
Even though the sun isn't as bright in winter, there's still enough sunlight to illuminate solar panels. In addition, snow and ice cover can hamper the system's ability to generate electricity.