Due to alarming levels of pollution, an increasing number of people are looking to switch to sustainable energy sources. Whether their primary goal is to save on electricity bills or protect the environment, solar energy seems to be the best option for those wanting to make a shift to renewable resources.
If you want to get the greatest benefits from going solar, you first need to learn how to fully utilize solar technology. Unbeknownst to some, solar panels placement plays a crucial role in how efficient energy production will be. Simply put, the panels work at optimum capacity when they can get maximum sunlight exposure.
Optimum Position of the Solar Panels
As mentioned, to get the best out of solar energy, solar panels need to be getting as much direct sunlight as possible. Since the sun is not a fixed object and moves during the day, this can be tricky. You want to ensure that the sun’s rays hit the panel at a perpendicular angle at most times because that way, the panels harness most of the sun’s energy.
Also, the sun is in different positions during the winter and summer months, which also affects the optimal position of the panels. For example, during the winter months, solar panels placement should be vertical because the sun is lower in the sky. However, during summer, it should be horizontal since the sun rises higher and the sun rays are stronger.
The Best Direction of the Solar Panels
If you live in the Northern hemisphere, a widely accepted rule is that the panels should be facing true south. Alternatively, those living in the Southern hemisphere will have their panels turned towards true north. This type of placement will allow for most light to reach solar panels during the day.
It’s important to mention that there is a difference between magnetic south and true south. Magnetic south is the direction a compass shows, whereas true south is a geographic direction. It is also referred to as solar south or geographic south, and it is the direction of the South Pole.
Depending on your daily needs for energy, you can adjust the direction slightly. For example, if your household needs more energy later in the day, you will rotate the panels to face southwest. This will result in increased energy supply in the evening for those who are more active at night. At this time, most people usually come home from work and use more household appliances, thus using up more energy.
The Angle of Solar Panels
The efficiency of panels also depends on the angle used to place them. A rule of thumb is that the angle the panel is set at corresponds to the geographical latitude. For instance, if your geographical latitude is 50°, the angle or a tilt of the solar array will be at 50°, as well.
The tilt of the panels also depends on the distance from the equator or the poles. Namely, the closer a solar panel is located to the equator, the more it should be pointing straight up. In contrast, the closer it is to the poles, the more they should turn to the equator.
The angle of the panels can be crucial in determining their effectiveness. This is especially true if you live in an area where there is snow or dirt build-up. Placing the solar panels at a sharper angle will significantly improve the efficacy of the system.
To Sum Up
Switching to renewable energy sources such as solar energy can notably help improve your family budget. In addition, you will help preserve the environment and reduce the overall harmful impact of burning fossil fuels. Once you’ve decided to take this step, you want to make sure you are using solar panels most efficiently.
To obtain maximum energy when you need it most, you should ensure you have placed your solar panels correctly. Solar panels placement should be done thoughtfully, minding that the panels are facing the right direction, and are placed at an optimal angle.
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