Snowy winter often means less solar energy production, but with effective solar panel snow removal, you can maintain good efficiency.
Did you know that even during cold months, solar panels can still generate about 50 to 80 percent of their maximum output? How can you ensure they perform at their best? Removing snow is key.
While the efficiency of solar panels drops in winter, proper snow removal techniques can help keep this loss to a minimum.
That being said, handling panels carefully during maintenance is crucial to avoid voiding warranties or insurance coverage. Are you using the safest methods to protect your panels?
This blog will explore the essential dos and don’ts of solar panel snow removal. Optimize your solar investment, regardless of the weather. Let’s dive in!
The Dos and Don’ts of Solar Panel Snow Removal
Dos:
- Inspect the Area: Ensure no hazards like power lines or sharp objects are near the panels. This preparation reduces the risk of accidents or equipment damage during snow removal.
- Use the Right Tools: Utilize a soft brush or a foam-headed roof rake designed for solar panels to gently remove snow, avoiding scratches or damage to delicate panel surfaces.
- Work from the Ground: Whenever possible, use an extension pole to clear snow from the ground, minimizing the risk of slipping or falling from the roof, and ensuring personal safety.
- Monitor Snow Load: Regularly check the snow accumulation on your panels and clear them promptly to prevent long-term damage or efficiency loss due to blocked panels.
- Wear Safety Gear: If you must climb onto the roof, wear non-slip shoes and consider using a safety harness secured to an anchor point to prevent accidents.
Don’ts:
- Avoid Hot Water: Never use hot water or chemical de-icers to remove snow from solar panels, as they can cause thermal stress and damage the panels.
- Don’t Use Hard Tools: Avoid using hard or sharp tools such as standard roof rakes, shovels, or metallic objects that could scratch and damage the solar panels.
- Don’t Apply Excessive Force: Be gentle while removing snow to avoid physically stressing the panels, which can lead to cracks or other structural damage.
- Avoid Chipping Ice: Never attempt to remove ice by chipping at it. This method can cause severe damage to the solar panels, potentially voiding warranties.
- Don’t Ignore Heavy Snow: Do not let heavy snow accumulate on your solar panels for too long, as it can significantly reduce efficiency and potentially cause damage.
Why Solar Panel Snow Removal Is Important
Your solar panels rely on photovoltaic (PV) cells, located in the front layers, to capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. These cells, sensitive to light, collectively generate power for homes, businesses, and even the electrical grid.
Snow, on the other hand, makes it difficult for these cells to function effectively. Even a light dusting of snow can significantly reduce the panels’ power output. The longer the snow remains, the more it impacts energy production.
Additionally, heavy snow accumulation risks physical damage to the panels and their supporting structures. As a result, adding excessive weight can cause bending or cracking.
To prevent these issues, removing snow from solar panels is crucial. It ensures that the panels can resume optimal operation quickly and maximize energy production, especially during the limited sunlight hours of winter.
This is vital for maintaining a steady and reliable energy supply for homes and businesses that depend on solar power.
Proper snow management not only protects the physical integrity of the solar system but also ensures it continues to provide maximum output throughout snowy months.
FAQs
How often should I check my solar panels for snow accumulation?
Regular checks are recommended, especially after snowfall. Monitoring your panels frequently during winter helps prevent efficiency losses and physical damage due to snow build-up.
Can snow accumulation affect the warranty on my solar panels?
Yes, failing to maintain your panels, including proper snow removal, can sometimes void warranties. Always check with your manufacturer or installer for specific warranty conditions related to snow and maintenance.
What are the risks of using salt or chemical melters on solar panels?
Using salt or chemical melters is not recommended. These chemicals can cause corrosion or other damage to the solar panels and their components.
Are there automated tools or technology available to help with solar panel snow removal?
Yes, automatic solar panel snow removal devices such as heated panels are available. These systems reduce the need for manual labor and lower the risk of damaging your solar panels.
How does the angle of solar panel installation affect snow accumulation?
Steeper angles help reduce snow accumulation as gravity helps in sliding the snow off the panels. Adjusting the angle can be a strategic decision in snowy regions.
What should I do if the snow is frozen and hard to remove?
In cases of hard, icy snow, it might be safer to let it melt naturally. You may also call professionals who have the right tools and techniques to safely remove ice without damaging the panels.
Is it necessary to completely clear all snow from the panels, or is partial cleaning effective?
The sun often melts snow on solar panels faster than you might expect, quicker than on the ground or roofs. Even partially clearing the panels can improve their efficiency, particularly when they’re heavily covered.
Check out this blog to learn more about how solar panels work in the winter:
DO RESIDENTIAL SOLAR PANELS WORK IN WINTER?
Can snow removal from solar panels be a DIY activity?
Even though DIY is possible, large or complex installations are best handled by professionals, especially if safety or difficult access are issues.
Final Thoughts
In this dos and don’ts of solar panel snow removal blog, you’ve learned that with the right tools, snow clearing is possible. However, professional help is crucial for large installations, and to guarantee a system that can withstand snow load.
Ready to invest in premium commercial and residential solar panels? Gridworks Energy can help you.
Our solar panels are designed to perform exceptionally well in challenging conditions like winter. Key features include:
- Robust materials for heavy snow endurance
- Advanced low-light optimization technologies
- Strong frames supporting additional weight
- Higher efficiency in cold weather
- Superior temperature coefficients
With extended warranties, we promise reliability and substantial energy savings, lowering the total cost over time.
We can also install your solar array with an optimal tilt for shedding snow and capturing more sunlight in Alberta locales.
Choose our industry-rated panels for enduring harsh winters. Contact us today to experience unparalleled service and prepare for winter.
