For many property owners, solar panel installation is a win-win situation. Specifically, using these panels not only reduces your building’s energy expenses dramatically but also helps minimize your carbon footprint. With installation costs declining significantly in recent years, this improvement has never been more affordable. However, these systems don’t always deliver a consistent level of performance. To help you maximize the use of this energy resource, here are factors that can influence the effectiveness of solar panels.

What Influences Solar Panel Performance?

1. Placement

To produce more power, place panels on areas of the roof that get the most sun, such as the south- and west-facing sides. If you have to place them on the east- or north-facing roofs, increasing the number of panels or opting for a ground-mounted system may help you collect more energy in these areas of limited light.

2. Climate

Although the summer may seem to be the sunniest time of year, the heat of the season may cause solar panels to work less efficiently. In the winter, colder weather allows the cells to produce more energy. While you may not have control over the climate, knowing these effects can help you figure out what to expect each season in terms of solar energy production.

3. Tilt

Adjust the angle of the panels every season so that they catch the most amount of light. In the summer, when the sun is higher, the tilt should equal your latitude minus 15 degrees. In the winter, the sun is lower, so the slope should be the latitude plus 15 degrees.

4. Shading

When solar panels are in the shade, they have a harder time collecting sunlight to produce energy. That’s why you should consider all the barriers around your home or business that may end up casting shadows on the roof, such as other buildings and tall trees. The shaded area changes throughout the year, depending on the position of the sun.

5. Cleanliness

While modern solar panels can withstand the elements relatively well, they can still get dirty over time. When this happens, the photovoltaic cells may not be able to receive all incoming sunlight. To prevent problems, follow your system’s cleaning recommendations to keep dirt and other contaminants off the surface.

 

If you’re considering solar panels for your home or business, let Star City Solar in Miamisburg, OH, help you harness the power of the sun. Star City Solar serves Dayton, Cincinnati, and the rest of south-central Ohio. Their trusted technicians will help you choose between ground or roof panels so that you find the perfect renewable energy solution for your home. They can even estimate your annual utility savings beforehand. Learn more about their services online, or call (937) 572-5497 today to schedule an appointment.