The Perfect Locations For Solar Installation
When installing solar panels at home, it is essential to place them at the most optimal location to get the most exposure to the sun. This can not only affect the production of energy. However, it can also impact the amount you can save on your electric bill. If you're interested in learning how you can get the most value from the investment you make, read on to find out:
- Solar panel orientation is crucial.
- The optimal angle to install solar panels
- The factors that determine the ideal tilt angle
Delaware is not an exception when embracing solar energy in the United States. The installation of solar panels in Delaware has grown in popularity because of the state's commitment to renewable energy and the incentives it provides. Delawareans have realized the environmental and economic advantages of solar energy, which has led to a rise in adoption.
Why are solar Panels installed at an Angle?
Solar panels are most effective when they receive the maximum amount of sunlight. The more sunlight they receive, the more energy they can generate. Ideally, it would help if you placed the solar panel directly toward the sun and then followed the sun's movement across the sky.
Unfortunately, solar trackers that track the sun are prohibitively expensive for most home applications. It's generally cheaper to purchase a few more solar panels than a solar tracker's price; therefore, a compromise must be considered.
The sun should be at 90 degrees on solar panels for as long as possible at the time of day. In the US, most solar panels are located towards the equator (south) and at an angle between 30 and 45 degrees.
- For homes in the northern hemisphere, solar panels should be facing south.
- For homes in the southern hemisphere, solar panels should be facing north.
A solar panel not installed correctly isn't producing the right amount of energy, so you may miss the opportunity to save money.
They can increase their power production by tilting their solar panels during the day. In the case of direct sunlight in the summer, they get the most exposure.
What is the best angle for Solar Panels at Home?
The best tilt angle isn't something everyone should attempt by themselves, especially when you are not an expert in the field. Since the sun's position changes location throughout the day, and solar panels on rooftops aren't designed to be moved after installation, it can be challenging to determine the proper solar panel's tilt angle. Most calculations are best left to professional solar panel designers and installers.
Tilt Angle vs Azimuth Angle
When it comes time to position solar panels, there are two angles to think about:
- "Tilt Angle" - This is the angle vertical of solar panels. It is also referred to as the "Elevation Angle." The more slender the angle, the more "up" towards the sky they look.
- "Azimuth Angle" is the horizontal angle solar panels have around the equator.
Solar panels located in the northern part of the hemisphere need to be facing south, and you might think that calculating the azimuth angle is easy - point them south! However, it's crucial to understand that solar panels should be angled toward the true south, not the reading of a magnetic south compass. Depending on the region of the United States you live in, the ideal azimuth angle can be at least 20 degrees from the magnetic south.
3 important Factors that Determine the best angle for solar Panels
Your roof, your location, and your weather determine the best angle for solar panels for your roof:
1. Your Location
Your latitude and longitude are vital in determining the best position for solar panels. The equator is where the sun shines directly overhead most of the year. Therefore, it is critical to direct your discussions toward that point.
- The closer you are to the equator, the narrower the angle. If you lived near the equator, you could direct your solar panels upwards and be optimized to generate solar power.
- The further you are away from the equator, the steeper angle is required. If you were living on the Poles. In that scenario, you'd need to position your solar panels towards the sky to maximize your power from solar.
Your location also affects how many sun-beam hours your home is exposed to. We're not talking about the time between sunset and sunrise. Consider the peak sun's hours as the period every day when the sun shines at its brightest.
2. Your Roof
To maximize the amount of energy you produce, your home's roof must meet a few essential specifications. Experts from a reputable solar power company will examine your roof and advise you which of these three elements could influence the ideal angle of your solar panels.
- The angle of your roof
- The Shape of Your Roof
- The Shading on Your Roof
Every home is unique, as is each roof. From the steep roofs on a snow-covered cabin to the flat roofs of a modern desert house, many angles for roofs are to be considered. Based on the roof's angle, the solar installer might require extra support structures to alter the angle of the solar panels. These calculations could become more complex if the roof has multiple angles, corners, or forms.
The form of your roof is a crucial aspect of solar panel installation. Gable or hip roofs are typically considered the best for solar panels, offering optimal sunlight exposure. However, the more decorative elements are on your roof, the more challenging it will be to determine the best place for your solar panels and the angle they should be. This should be left to skilled solar experts.
Solar panels generate electricity by absorbing sunlight; anything that blocks them from the sun's rays will drastically reduce their power generation. Positioning your solar panels so that the slightest shade can be reflected on them is essential, as even minor dye can harm the solar system. To avoid shading, you must consider every hour of the day and throughout the seasons to ensure that no object in the vicinity could cause shadows to your roof when the sun moves from east to west.
3. Your Seasonal Weather
Your position on the Earth will determine the sunlight you will likely receive during a particular season. Because the sun's height varies from one location to another and season to season, solar seasonality significantly influences the optimal angles of solar panels. For instance, suppose your area is subject to fog in the morning. In that scenario, you should angle the panels to maximize later afternoon production.
No matter where you are and what circumstance, Working with a professional solar company such as Arise Solar will get your solar array at the right angle to ensure the highest efficiency.
The Most Optimal angle for solar panel installation
To maximize the power of your solar panels, they should be installed at the right angle to generate the most efficient amount of energy to power your house. The "ideal" angle is contingent on many factors, including the location, the roof's form, and the season of sunlight. The angle that will work for you may not be ideal for a friend who lives across the block, in a different country region, or in the opposite part of the globe.
It would help if you worked with a reputable solar company such as Arise Solar to install your panels at the right angle. We consider all the factors determining the best angle to place your solar panels. We also manage each aspect of installation. We will ensure that the solar panels produce the power you require to satisfy your family's energy requirements regardless of time no matter the season.
Conclusion
The ideal spot for solar panels is determined by the angle, orientation, and the best location for harnessing the sun's energy. Solar energy production has a huge potential in areas with plenty of sunlight. Installing solar panels through Arise Solar Servicescontributes to the movement towards sustainable energy in Delaware. Solar panels can be an innovative and environmentally friendly option, regardless of your location.