What to do, what not to do, and how to keep your solar solutions working efficiently during the coldest months of the year.
As last month’s winter storms showed, the coldest months of the year can present distinct challenges for solar-power systems, from snow and ice accumulation to fewer hours of sunlight. However, there are also ways that the darkest months of the year might make your home or business the brightest. So, here are three key facts to help you maximize your solar solutions in the winter.
1. The Right Angle for You
Like in any season, the placement of your solar panels in winter is vital to their success. Since there are fewer hours of sunlight in the winter, it is important that your panels are placed at the best possible angle to soak in as much sun as possible. Especially if you can’t change the angle of your panels from season to season, it’s crucial that you get it right the first time.
2. Snow Way!
As every New Englander knows, snow can really pile up during the winter months. One of the benefits of solar panels is that they can help melt some of the snow that accumulates on your roof. Like any electronics, solar panels generate small amounts of heat when they are in use, and that heat can help keep your roof clear. Additionally, there is groundbreaking research on the horizon that might help panels stay even more clear in the near future.
3. Ice Cold and Doing Fine
Finally, there is ample research to suggest that solar panels are actually more efficient when operating in colder weather. Even though there are fewer hours of sunlight in the winter, the increased efficiency of the panels themselves can help make up some of the difference. In Minnesota, where temperatures often plunge into the single digits for weeks at a time, researchers have found that solar panels actually become more efficient as the temperature drops.
With winter upon us, Summit Solar is still committed to helping you find the solar solutions that are right for you! Use our free Solar Savings Calculator to see how much you can save on your January and February energy bills.