The global climate emergency is a serious issue, but the sun provides clean, free energy 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and you can easily convert this energy into electricity for your home. This is one of the reasons why so many people are interested in installing
solar systems for their homes. However, there are several factors that must be considered when deciding how to install your solar panels. One of the biggest considerations is the positioning of your solar panels. Once you know where to place them, you can continue with the installation task.
1. Understand how your solar panels will work
Solar panels harness the sun's rays to generate the electricity you can use to power your home's appliances. They do this by converting light energy into electrical energy. Because of this, the closer your solar panels are to the source of light, the more efficient they become. It's worth bearing in mind that panels will need to be cleaned from time to time, so if you have access to them, that is much better. Our reliance on fossil fuels needs to be reduced, and solar installation can be the way forward.
2. Try to get your panels facing south
As a general rule, solar panels should be positioned facing the sun to maximise their effectiveness, and if possible, they should be on the building's roof as you don't want shadows falling across your panels as the sun moves throughout the day. If you want the absolute, very best sunlight, it might be worth trying to position them, so they face the equator.
3. Get the angle right for your panels
The optimum angle for the panels depends on several factors, such as where you live, how big your house is, and the angle of your rooftop. You must have your panel pointed at the sun at noon during summertime, so make sure this happens if you can. However, this can make them a little less effective during winter. Many people don't pay enough attention to the angles involved, so if you're not sure, it's a good idea to speak to an expert.
4. Do some research on the ideal panels for you
The type of solar panel you buy depends on what you want to do with it. If you want some extra power on hand during times of peak demand, then a smaller system - such as one that generates up to 10kW - could suffice. On the other hand, if you want to reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and help save money on your bills, larger systems - such as those generating up to 150kW - could be better suited to your needs.
5. Think outside the box if necessary
Most solar panel owners elect to ask for their PV panels to be affixed to the roof. But this has led to something of a misconception among some people that they must be installed on the roof. Although most people believe that, it isn't always the case. While roof-mounting does have several benefits, including being able to avoid shading from nearby trees, as well as protecting against high winds, there are drawbacks, too. Chief among them is having access to the PV panels to clean them.
Free-standing solar cells can also be useful if you'd rather not use the roof. You can, of course, place them anywhere you like, even at the front of your house. They can be angled towards the sun and provide power throughout the day. You may also have areas in the back garden that would be ideal for free-standing panels. Alternatively, integrated solutions such as façade and flat-roof panels can be used to reduce energy consumption.
6. Always maximise the value you get from the panels
Solar power systems are often expensive; however, there are some things you can do to make sure you're getting your money's worth. One of those things is making sure your system lasts longer. After all, you'll be paying for a lifetime of energy production. So how long do solar panels typically last? Solar panel warranties vary widely, but most manufacturers give you anywhere from 15 to 30 years of coverage. However, you shouldn't count on that warranty being around forever. As technology improves, so will your solar panels' efficiency and performance.
A solar panel installation represents an opportunity to sign up for renewable energy and save money on energy bills. Carbon footprints are becoming increasingly important these days, so it makes sense to become as energy efficient as possible. Your PV panels can be extremely beneficial as long as they're positioned correctly. Solar energy suppliers can showcase products and offer any advice you might need. Powering appliances such as the air conditioner, the washing machine, and the light bulbs may never be the same again.