Installing solar panels for homes could be the best way to reduce your home power bill. Since solar power system is an expensive investment, we need to positioning solar panels for maximum efficiency. With read this easy guide, you will be able to determine the best place to mounting the panel.
Solar panels can place anywhere, but where to place solar panels can be getting for maximum efficiency? There are three main choices you can be mount your PV panels: flush mount, roof and ground mount. Though each type of panel is highly beneficial, and you should choose whichever is best for your location while still being aesthetically pleasing.
Positioning PV panels require an understanding of a few factors. However, most of what you need to know does not require extensive education or skill. An understanding of the affects of shade, wind, temperature, and solar mount type allows us to mount solar panels in the best spot.
Shade
Solar panels work best when exposed to the maximum amounts of sun possible. Shaded areas will reduce the output of even the best solar arrays. If you cannot find a treeless area, at least try to find an area that is not shaded during peak hours. For most families, peak hours will be from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Creating an area with adequate sunlight does not require large amounts of time or energy. Trimming trees back will often replace the need to remove them. If you are debating removing a tree, be sure and think about wind loads.
Wind loads
The wind conditions in the area you are considering for your solar array will affect their placement. Spacing the panels at least a few inches apart will reduce the wind load considerably. The trees that block some sun from reaching your arrays might make up for the lower efficiency by acting as a wind break during stormy weather.
Temperature
Keep in mind that solar panels work by using the light from the sun and not the heat generated by the sun. Heat decreases the solar panel efficiency. A cold sunny day are preferable than a hot day.
One way to keep the solar panels cooling even on warm days is to spacing the panels apart. This spacing allows the circulating air to cool the panels.
Solar Array Types:
The type of solar array that you purchase also affects positioning. There are three basic types: fixed mount, adjustable mount, and tracking mounts.
- Fixed mounts should be pointed towards the equator. Use an angle of inclination that matches your home’s latitude. A slightly higher inclination will favor winter sunlight and the opposite will favor summer lighting. Fixed mounts are your cheapest option but might lack enough flexibility for your location.
- Adjustable mounts can be changed with seasonal variations. (An angle of inclination of +15 in the winter and -15 in the summer), that should be suitable for most parts of the United States. Adjustable mounts increase efficiency over fixed mounts by about 25%. They are usually a great compromise between fixed mounts and more expensive tracking mounts.
- Tracking mounts allow the user to follow the sun on a single or double axis. Single axis mounts travel east to west. Double axis mounts include east to west and seasonal efficiency up to 30% over fixed mounts and increase your options for positioning.
Positioning your solar panel array does not have to be complicated. Just remember to check for areas with ample sun exposure and protection from wind. Then, position the arrays far enough apart to reduce heat buildup. Be sure and buy the solar array mount that gives the best options for your property.
Choosing the right location for your solar panels will vastly improve their efficiency. They are immensely crucial things you need to consider before mounting solar panels.
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Hello everyone, I'm an engineer from San Francisco in the USA. I’m very passionate about all types of renewable energy, including solar and wind power. Anything that’s good for mother earth, then I’m all for it.
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