Common Solar Panel Direction & Angle Mistakes To Avoid
Installing a solar panel system is one of the best ways to reduce energy costs here in Central Florida. But what you might not know is that the performance of your system ultimately depends on the panel’s placement. Two of the most important factors to consider are direction (the way your panels face) and angle (the tilt of the panels).
If you’re considering going solar or want to optimize your solar production in Central Florida, follow these tips from our team at Solar Bear Orlando.
#1. Facing Panels the Wrong Way
One of the most common mistakes that we run into is panels that aren’t facing the optimal direction for sunlight exposure. In the Northern Hemisphere, it is recommended to install panels facing true south. This maximizes sunlight exposure throughout the day, especially during peak hours in the Sunshine State.
Some homeowners mistakenly orient their panels toward the east or west, thinking that it will capture more morning or afternoon sun, but this isn’t always the case.
How to Avoid It: Work with a professional installer from Solar Bear Orlando. We use solar mapping tools to determine the most effective direction for your roof and location.
#2. Ignoring Your Local Climate & Sun Path
Even though south-facing panels are what we recommend, your local conditions also matter. In Orlando, the sun’s high position and year-round sunshine mean that your panels should be adjusted for optimal summer and winter production. If you don’t pay attention to seasonal sun angles, this can lead to less energy production, especially in the winter months when the sun sits lower in the sky.
How to Avoid It: Make sure to account for Orlando’s latitude and seasonal sun patterns to find the ideal year-round compromise. That’s where we come in!
#3. Using the Wrong Tilt Angle
Tilt angle refers to how steeply your panels are positioned. If they’re too flat, they won’t capture enough sunlight during the winter months. If they’re too steep, they may miss optimal summer sun.
In Florida, the ideal fixed tilt angle is often close to your latitude (about 28° for Orlando). That said, it’s important to note that some roofs have fixed slopes that make achieving this angle tricky, leading to lower efficiency.
How to Avoid It: If your roof’s pitch isn’t ideal, specialized mounting systems can adjust the tilt for better performance without major structural changes.
#4. Overlooking Shade Impact
Even if you have your panels pointed in the right direction and at the correct angle, shading from nearby trees or other buildings can reduce output. Many homeowners install panels in the sunniest spot in summer, not realizing that winter’s lower sun angle may cast longer shadows.
How to Avoid It: Ask our team to perform a shade analysis to ensure your panels receive consistent sunlight year-round.
#5. Failing to Plan for Roof Shape & Orientation
Sometimes homeowners want panels installed in the most visible or symmetrical layout for aesthetics—but this can compromise performance. A visually pleasing design that ignores sun direction and tilt can cost you thousands in lost energy over the system’s lifetime.
How to Avoid It: Prioritize performance over aesthetics, and don’t worry! We use design software to balance both.
#6. Skipping Professional Advice
DIYing your solar installation might seem like it will save you money, but it often leads to costly mistakes. Believe it or not, even a 10° misalignment can reduce the system’s efficiency noticeably, and calling in the pros to fix it later can be costly.
How to Avoid It: Partner with a certified solar installation company like Solar Bear Orlando that understands Orlando’s unique sun patterns, weather, and building codes.
Read More > Can Skipping Maintenance Appointments Really Affect My Solar System?
Get the Most from Your Solar System
The right direction and tilt can make a big difference in how much energy your solar panels produce, as well as how quickly you might see a return on your investment. Make sure to avoid the above mistakes, and you’ll be able to maximize your savings and produce reliable, clean energy for years to come!
At Solar Bear Orlando, we are ready to design a system perfectly matched to your home and Florida’s sunshine. Contact us today at (727) 353-3886 for a free solar evaluation!