How to Keep Your Solar Panels in Perfect Condition in Cold Weather
Solar panels can be installed towards Long-term energy savings For many people. although Inflation is cooling, Increased energy costs These two years have been difficult for many people. although solar cost Also rises with inflation, its cost falls overall and can be subsidized by 30% federal tax credit. If you invest in solar power, you don’t want to give up any electricity production (and associated savings). Winter weather can add some obstacles to that goal.
Solar panels work just as well in the winter as they do in the summer. (Perhaps even better. Cooler temperatures keep solar panels operating at their best most efficient.) But the cloudy days are getting shorter and ice and snow are accumulating, The sun is lower in the sky All reduced Amount of sunlight available. If solar panels work better in colder conditions, there will be less sunlight available to them.
You can mitigate some of these effects. You may not be able to do much about the clouds in the sky, but you can do something about the snow on your face. With a little extra work, you can get more energy from your solar panels throughout the winter than you would otherwise.
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Clear heavy snow from panels
If you live in an area that gets snow, it’s natural for some snow to fall on your solar panels. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Light snow may melt quickly. In fact, snow on solar panels may have some benefits, as it can clean your panels as it melts or slides off.
While there is nothing wrong with snow on your solar panels, be aware of excessive snow accumulation. Solar panels covered in snow simply cannot capture sunlight in the same way. In addition, heavy snow may cause excessive weight of solar panels, which can put stress on the installation point.
If you are clearing snow from your solar panels, be sure to use the right tools. A rough brush or rake can damage your solar panels. Instead, use a soft snow brush to remove snow without scratching the panel surface. Again, it’s best to check with your provider to make sure your warranty won’t be voided.
Use less energy (or prepare to pay more on your electricity bill)
Solar panels can still capture sunlight and create energy for your home during the winter months. But with fewer daylight hours, your solar panels will also produce less energy than during the summer. As a result, you may need to reduce your energy usage or prepare to pay higher electricity bills. The good news is that there are many ways to reduce energy use, including:
- switch to energy saving light bulb. They last longer and perform better. Generally speaking, 60-watt traditional light bulbs can be replaced with 15-watt energy-saving light bulbs.
- Turn off lights and appliances not in use. While most of us know that we’re wasting energy when we open these things, we forget that it actually affects our wallets.
- Unplug small appliances that are not in use. Even when you’re not using them, they consume a small amount of electricity, which can increase your energy bill.
- Turn down your thermostat. You can save money by turning the temperature in your home a few degrees lower. Wear layers of clothing to make yourself more comfortable.
- Check your home’s insulation. If your home is poorly insulated, more heat will escape, which will cost you money.
Adjust the angle of the panel
In the winter, the sun is lower in the sky and can hit solar panels at a shallower and less efficient angle. Adjust the angle of solar panels Therefore, the sun hitting them more directly will promote electricity generation. Most people can’t do this because solar panels are usually mounted on mounts, but for those who can, adjusting the angle allows the panels to get more sunlight.
Since the sun is lower in the sky in winter than in summer, you’ll want your panels to be at a steeper angle during these months. Some sources suggest that the winter angle is Your latitude plus 10-15 degrees. For example, in Chicago, the angle is between 52 degrees and 57 degrees. (Chicago’s latitude is about 42 degrees.) As an added bonus, the steeper angle not only helps capture more sunlight, but also helps snow fall off the panels more easily. Before making any adjustments, discuss your options with your solar panel provider. You should be very careful not to refinish the panel in a way that could void your warranty.
Look at this: Simple ways to lower your utility bills and save money
Properly isolate batteries
During the winter, you’ll need to take special care of your solar cells to ensure they continue to work. It is very important to keep the battery at the proper temperature. Batteries cannot operate in the extremely low temperatures experienced in some areas. Therefore, you should store batteries indoors or ensure they are well insulated.
If you leave your battery outdoors, monitor the temperature to make sure it’s within the optimal range.
Pay attention to battery discharge
It’s also important to pay attention to battery discharge levels. It is not recommended that you fully discharge your solar cells. In fact, while some batteries may be suitable for a 70% to 80% discharge level, the recommended discharge level is actually 50%. During high-use days, like in the winter, be aware of battery discharge and consider investing in a backup generator.
bottom line
The good news is that your solar panels can still capture sunlight and create energy for your home during the winter months. They may just need more care and maintenance before and during winter.
