Location, location, location No, real estate is not the topic. The positioning of solar panels affects both their effectiveness and general functionality. This quick guide can assist you in choosing the ideal location to put panels so you receive the greatest return on your investment if you consider joining the hundreds of thousands of homeowners who use rooftop solar energy panels.
How Modern Technology Has Affected Solar Panel Positioning
Before getting into site specifics, it’s crucial to remember that solar technology has advanced significantly over time, giving homeowners considerably more freedom in where to instal their panels. In the past, solar panels could only generate enough electricity when they faced true south and were located in areas with consistent, year-round sunlight. Therefore, you weren’t advised to invest in solar panels if your property wasn’t facing south or lived in a rainy, overcast region because the savings might not have outweighed the cost.
Direction and location are less important now. Panels can be positioned on the ground or Roof, facing east or west, and still, gather a sizable amount of energy — more than enough to lower overall energy use and save money on monthly electricity bills. Californians don’t need to worry about whether their environment is favourable for solar energy because the Golden State just topped the U.S. rankings for the number of residences with solar panels and the total megawatts of solar capacity produced.
On the Roof, facing True South
Solar panels should be mounted on the Roof for optimum sunlight absorption and face true south. Magnetic south differs somewhat from true south, the direction a compass will show you. A solar installer will determine the exact direction to aim your panels in line with your land, so you won’t have to worry about doing any calculations or locating true south yourself. The Roof receives unbroken sunlight throughout the day, making it the ideal location for solar panels. You’re only out of luck if your Roof faces south. The following are some options for roofs without a southern face:
- To make up for it, increase the size of the panels on the east or west sides.
- Install the panels on racks so they may be positioned optimally.
- Put the panels on a wall, garage, or storage building that faces south.
- Only facing the panels north is prohibited. You must consider other options if it is your only choice on the Roof.
A Backyard
Although the Roof is frequently chosen for solar panel installation since it receives the most sunshine, your yard can occasionally be almost as efficient. For instance, placing panels in your yard to face south would be simple if you didn’t have a south-facing roof option. Because the panels are simpler to access for cleaning and maintenance, many people find this alternative more appealing.
Window Angle
Your panels must also be suitably slanted about the latitude of your land, whether you want to install them on your Roof or in your backyard. As a result, there needs to be a universal angle that is advised. A professional installer will calculate the precise tilt of your panels. Simply put, your tilt will flatter the closer you are to the equator and vice versa.
After that, you must choose between fixed and adjustable panels. Some individuals choose adjustable panels to capture as much sunlight as they can year-round because the sun is higher in the summer and lower in the winter. Fixed panels are typically less expensive to install and require less upkeep. Learn about solar power now to start saving money on your energy costs.
Finding the ideal location for your solar panels in your home is just the start of an exciting process. Work with household solar specialists to guarantee your solar PV panels are installed, calibrated, and in the best location if you’re ready to transition to more affordable and energy-efficient solar panels. Energy Saving Pros offers professional installation services all around the Sacramento region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the positioning of solar panels is critical for their effectiveness and functionality. Thanks to advances in solar technology, homeowners have more flexibility in where to install their panels. While facing true south on the roof is still the optimal location, panels can be installed on racks or walls facing south, in the backyard, or even facing east or west, providing a considerable amount of energy. Additionally, the universal angle recommended for the tilt of the panels is determined by the latitude of the land. Therefore, it is crucial to work with a professional solar installer to ensure the solar panels are installed in the best location and calibrated for optimal performance. With the right placement, solar panels can help homeowners reduce their overall energy use and save money on monthly electricity bills.