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Rabu, 12 Februari 2014

How Do I Get The Snow Off My Solar Panels?

By Jim Thorpe


Solar energy is becoming more popular as a resource for private homeowners. Certain areas of the country are seeing a surge in solar installations on private residential properties. Solar panels can save homeowners lots of money on utility bills, but unless you install them properly and optimize their exposure to the rays of the sun, you may find yourself frustrated with them.

In some areas of the country it just doesn't make sense to utilize solar energy as a resource because the region experiences too much cloud cover through the year. Additionally, there are certain things you want to make sure you do when you do install panels to make sure that you are optimizing the power you can generate.

Climbing up a latter isn't nearly as dangerous as standing atop your snowy roof. Climb up a latter and try to pull the snow off with a large push broom. Do not use too much force with the broom as it may damage the solar panel. Also, never use a rake or something sharp or metal. The surface of your solar panel has a layer of protective glass that you do not want to damage. Damage from the homeowner is probably not covered by the warranty, so be very careful if you decide to try sweeping the snow off of your panels.

In many homes, garage doors are of the most vulnerable points in the home's structure. A weak garage door can let wind enter the home, which will in turn result in the roof being torn off. Once you have installed the right garage door, you should move on to the roof. You need to invest in steel roofing that's reinforced to handle whatever is thrown its way. The garage door has to be reinforced as well. Check with the major garage door companies to see what they can do. Odds are if they are located in parts of the country that have more hurricanes than others, they will have offerings that will get the job done.

Obviously, the sunniest regions will be the best for using solar panels, but even areas that get a mix of cloud cover and sunny days can benefit from using solar panels. In an area where you may experience cloud cover for up to half of your year, there are some tricks and tips you can use to make the most of the sun that you do get.

Let it Melt

To begin with, when placing your solar panels, you want to make sure that they will spend little or no time under the cover of shade from nearby structures or vegetation. Place them on the south or east side of your home, as those are the sides that will get the most sun. If your panels are going to be stationary, you want to tilt them facing south to get the best sun.

Precise placement and the right angle can help you double or triple the energy output of your panels. For detailed information, you can search online or consult a professional for instructions specific to your region. Additionally, if you are able, sun tracking mounts and other solar mounting systems are available that allow your panel to follow the path of the sun, increasing the energy output.

Whatever you decide to do about the snow on your panels, be sure to take all of the necessary safety precautions. You don't want to damage the panels but, more importantly, you don't want to hurt yourself in an effort to earn a few more watts of energy. Usually, the safest place on a snowy day is sitting by your fireplace with a mug of hot chocolate. Stay safe!




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