When people envision solar panels, most tend to think about how those panels will function on a bright, sunny day in the middle of summer. However, winter weather can impact solar panels and the amount of energy they produce—though not in the way you may think.
If you are preparing for winter for your solar array, or if you need more information on what winter looks like for solar panels before you make your decision, know that winter does not equal a dramatic drop in performance.
Discover essential insights and practical tips regarding the interaction between snowfall and solar panels, ensuring that you make the most of your solar energy system during winter months as you consider a solar panel installation in Loudoun County, VA.
Solar Panels May Still Work When Covered in Snow
In the snowy months, this chilly white powder will collect anywhere that it touches—including the surfaces of your solar panels. Contrary to popular belief, this is not always a problem.
Solar panels will continue to produce energy from as much of the panels as are visible through the snow, which results in only a minimal decrease in performance.
Of course, a light dusting is less impactful than a foot of snow that completely obscures a panel, and there is no denying that deep snow will likely decrease production. Still, your panels will likely perform almost the same in winter as they do at any other time of the year.
Snow Melt Is the Best Removal Method
If you do have significant snow buildup on your solar panels, what is the next best step? Allowing for regular melting is the preferred option for numerous reasons. First and foremost, winter is a dangerous time to climb onto your roof or deal with heavy equipment around a solar array.
Even if your panels are in a more accessible location, it’s easy to slip and fall while wielding the equipment you need to clear the snow. Let Mother Nature do the job for you.
Equally important, solar panels are highly sensitive, and it is unwise to hit or scrape them with anything, even if you do so gently. Sliding a shovel across the panels can damage them, resulting in reduced performance or the need for repair.
Winter Skies Still Produce Sunlight
Many people assume that because winter is notoriously cloudy their solar panels are doing very little during this season. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth!
Just as it is possible for humans to get a sunburn on cloudy days, solar panels continue to process energy from sunlight even through the clouds. You should see very little, if any, change in the way your panels operate on cloudy days compared to clear days.
Additionally, solar panels can work with indirect sunlight. If your property is covered in bright white snow that is reflecting the light from the sky, your panels can utilize this as well. Any household can leverage what winter offers to make the most of their panels.
Melted Snow from Panels Can Damage Your Property
Solar panels are a smart investment for many homes, but it is important to plan strategically for how their presence impacts your environment. For instance, snow may collect on the panels during winter, and as we have discussed previously, it is best for you to wait and allow the snow to melt off on its own. Because solar panels are smooth, this snow often comes off all at once in a large, heavy sheet.
When a thick sheet of snow cascades from your roof, it can damage your gutters or strike objects underneath the roof with significant force. It is wise to consider how snow shields (also called snow guards) fit into your property design when you install solar panels.
This is primarily important for sloped roofs; structures with flat roofs do not need to worry about this element of solar panel ownership. With snow guards having a modest cost, this additional investment is simple and easy to approach when installing panels.
Get a Strategically Installed Array from the Pros
The experts at Ipsun Solar are proud members of the Amicus Solar Cooperative helping us stay up to date with the latest and most effective installation methods and materials.
From carefully evaluating all of the elements of your property to properly sizing the system, we can help you achieve your energy independence goals no matter the time of year. Contact Ipsun Solar to schedule an appointment for an estimate.
