Angled Solar Panels: Why Tilt Matters
Understanding the optimal positioning of solar panels is key to maximizing their efficiency and output. Tilting solar panels slightly, which may seem like a minor detail, is one way to do so.
Our team at Solar Bear Orlando explains why the angle of a solar panel is important and how you can use this tilt to your advantage to make the most of your solar panel system.
Why Solar Panel Tilt Matters
By adjusting the angle of your solar panels to match your geographical location’s latitude, you can ensure that they capture more sunlight throughout the day, especially during peak daylight hours.
Plus, panel tilt impacts seasonal variations in sunlight. By adjusting the tilt of the panels seasonally, homeowners can maximize their system’s production all year round, especially when the sun’s trajectory varies in the fall and winter months.
Roof Tilt
It is important to consider the tilt of your roof before installing a solar system. If your roof has a steep tilt, you likely won’t be able to get optimal energy production with a traditional racking system. In this case, it may be better to install panels flat against your roof.
If your roof has a low angle, we may need to install specialized racking if you want to ensure that they are tilted at the right angle. We don’t recommend mounting solar panels flat against a low-angled roof, as they will often produce less electricity.
Read More > How Much Roof Space Do I Realistically Need for Solar?
What is the Optimal Solar Panel Tilt?
When determining the angle of panel tilt for your solar system, it is important to consider the geographical location of your installation. In general, for systems closer to the equator, a tilt angle that is equal to the latitude is likely sufficient. For those living farther from the equator, changing the angle based on seasonal changes in solar altitude can enhance the energy production of the system.
Generally, we like to recommend a 45-degree angle in the spring, and a 20-degree angle when the sun is high in the sky during the summer months.
Some solar pros suggest that a fixed tilt angle that is slightly steeper than the latitude can result in higher annual energy production by capturing more sunlight when the sun angles are lower in the winter months. In areas where it is often cloudy, a shallow tilt angle can help maximize energy output in these less-than-ideal lighting conditions.
Angles Vs. Orientation
Many factors play into the efficiency of a solar panel system, including the tilt or angle of the solar system, as well as the orientation of the panels. Improper panel orientation will mean that your solar system won’t get enough sun exposure, thus reducing the system’s electricity output.
Believe it or not, the wrong angle or tilt on the correct panel orientation will produce more energy than the correct angle or tilt on the wrong panel orientation.
Ready to Go Solar?
Ready to install a solar system at your Central Florida home or business? We’re excited to help! Before we begin the installation, we will calculate the optimal tilt and orientation for your solar panels based on your home’s location and any shading from trees in the area.
We are here to ensure that your solar panel installation is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Contact Solar Bear Orlando for a no-hassle quote today at (727) 471-7442!