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What Is the Best Angle for Solar Panels?

Though the sun’s movements might seem straightforward—it rises in the east and sets in the west—the path taken by the sun is a bit more complex than that. Due to the earth’s natural tilt and its elliptical orbit around the sun, the sun moves across the sky differently depending on where you live and the time of year.

Yes, the sun’s changing position can impact your solar power generation, which is why it is important to tilt your solar system at an optimal angle, known as solar panel tilt.

What solar panel tilt is best for your solar system? Keep reading to find out!

What Does Solar Panel Angle Mean?

Solar panel angle is another way to describe the vertical tilt of your solar panel system. This angle can affect the amount of solar power that your system generates and is based on two factors, latitude, and the season.

To maximize your solar power production, you should adjust your solar panel title according to these two factors.

What is the Best Solar Tilt for Your Latitude?

The further your home is from the equator, the higher your solar tilt should be. For example, in states such as Arizona and Hawaii that sit at lower latitudes, the sun is higher in the sky. In these lower latitude states, solar panels require a lower tilt to capture direct sunlight.

For states in higher latitudes like Oregon and Montana, the sun is lower in the sky, so solar panels should be installed at a higher tilt to receive maximum sunlight throughout the day.

There is a simple calculation to calculate the best tilt angle for fixed-mount solar systems: Subtract 15 degrees from your latitude during the summer and add 15 degrees to your latitude during winter. Simple!

These angles will give you the best overall solar output over a year if you have a fixed installation on your roof. Adjusting solar panels based on the season is another option, which we explain next!

What is the Best Solar Tilt Based on Season?

The angle of the sun not only changes due to different latitudes but also along with the changing seasons. The sun is lower during winter and higher in the summer.

This means that if you want to ensure that your solar system is receiving the maximum amount of sunlight, its tilt should be adjusted for each season.

For example, in Orlando, Florida the best solar tilt based on the seasons is as follows:

• Winter: 40°
• Spring/Fall: 64°
• Summer: 88°

Of course, adjusting your solar panels a few times a year is not a straightforward task as most solar panels are mounted to your roof at a fixed angle that cannot be adjusted. The only way to adjust solar panels easily is to install a ground-mount system and axis-tracking solar panels.

While this can increase solar output, it can greatly increase your upfront installation costs.

Keep Reading> Does Cooler Weather Affect My Solar Panel System?

How Does the Angle of a Roof Affect Solar Production?

You might be wondering if the pitch of your roof will impact your solar energy production. The good news is that there is little difference between panels installed on a shallow roof compared to one with a steeper pitch.

While solar panels on a shallow roof might capture more sunlight during the summer, solar panels on a steep roof produce more power in the winter—so generally, it balances out across the seasons.

In solar-friendly states like Florida, most homeowners find that solar systems are worth the investment, at whatever angle they are installed at.

Learn More> Sun Number Meaning: What Is it?

Achieve Optimal Solar Production

Florida is one of the best states for solar installations due to our beautiful weather and ample sunlight. If you are ready to install a solar panel system on your home, our team at Solar Bear Orlando will ensure that your panels are optimally tilted to generate the most power from our bright Florida sun year-round.

Ready to get started? Call Solar Bear Orlando for a quote today; 407-904-7585!

Top 5 FAQ Homeowners Ask About Solar, Answered

You have questions? We have answers! Solar Bear knows that adding a solar system to your home is an important decision, not an impulse buy, so we take pride in providing access to the information that you need to make an informed choice. Read on to see the top 5 frequently asked questions that homeowners ask about going solar.

1. How do solar panels work?

Once installed, solar panels work by absorbing sunlight, generating direct current (DC) energy, and then converting it to usable alternating current (AC) energy. The AC energy runs from an inverter to your home’s electrical panel (breaker box) and is distributed accordingly. Electricity flows throughout the home, powering energy-dependent items like the HVAC system, water heater, appliances, etc.

2. What financial incentives are available with solar?

There are a number of local and federal tax incentives that may reduce or eliminate your monthly utility bill. The Solar Bear team will recommend all applicable options that may include net metering, the federal solar investment tax credit and Florida’s Solar and CHP sales tax exemption that could save 6% of what you would otherwise owe in taxes.

3. Is solar financing available?

Yes! During the initial consultation, our team will recommend the best financing options available for your situation.

4. How long will my solar panels last?

Solar panels are incredibly durable, usually lasting anywhere between 25 to 30 years. As part of our holistic approach to energy-saving solutions, Solar Bear also offers a larger overall home energy plan that will help extend the life of your system.

5. How much can I save with solar?

This can vary from house to house but on average, you can expect to save 40-80% on your electric bill. For a better look at your annual savings, there are a few factors like electricity consumed, the size of your solar system and how much direct sunlight your panels receive that contribute to how much energy and money you can save on your utility bill.

Solar Bear wants to make going solar an easy and seamless experience for you! With our extensive experience and a plethora of fantastic benefits, going solar has never been easier. Get started with your free estimate today!

Can I Install Solar in My Apartment?

If you live in an apartment, you may be wondering if you can take advantage of the solar revolution like homeowners. The short answer is yes, though it can be a little more complicated.

Don’t worry! Even without your own roof, you can still benefit from solar power, and possibly even reduce your electricity bills in the process!

If you are a renter, keep reading this blog for some savvy ways to harness solar energy in your apartment!

Installing Solar Panels as a Renter

You can install solar panels in your apartment, but since you don’t have access to the roof or a large swath of yard, you’ll need a small portable system that can fit on your balcony or patio that receives ample sunlight. Keep in mind these systems have a small power output of about 0.3 to 1.5 kWh per day.

Portable Solar Systems

Portable solar panel systems have become progressively cheaper and more efficient over recent years. They are now a convenient power source for those who live in smaller spaces like a rented apartment, home, or RV.

Since these portable systems can work anywhere that there is sun exposure, they are perfect for apartment dwellers. You can easily set up a small solar system on windowsills, balcony railings, or banisters.

These small portable systems are generally rated between 100-300 watts and can generate between 0.3 kWh to 1.5 kWh of electricity a day. This can be enough to run some small appliances or charge your smartphone or laptop.

Pros of Portable Solar Panels

A great advantage to a portable solar system is that it can easily be connected to a battery storage system. This means you will be able to use the power your system generated any time of day.

Another amazing advantage is that some of these small solar energy systems qualify for the 26% federal tax credit, which could significantly reduce the costs of your system.

The best part is that when you move to a new apartment you can take your solar system with you—which isn’t an option for homeowners with rooftop solar panels!

Cons of Portable Solar Systems

There are a few downsides to portable solar systems that you should consider before investing in one.

Any portable solar system is going to produce less power than rooftop or ground-mounted solar panel systems. This means that you’ll need to continue using grid power to meet your power needs.

Further, portable inverters and storage systems can be quite expensive, especially if you want a quality system that will last. It’s also important to keep in mind that the smaller the solar system, the higher the cost per watt.

Another Option: Community Solar Gardens

Though not available everywhere, community solar gardens can be a great way to use solar energy in an apartment. The community solar model allows renters to subscribe to a solar garden that is off-site.

If you went this route, you wouldn’t need to switch their utilities or put anything on their property so they likely don’t need permission from a landlord to join. The best part? You could expect to save 10% on your monthly energy costs while contributing to clean energy in your community.

Related Reading> Solar Panels & EV Stations-What to Know

Orlando Solar Solutions

Whether you are a homeowner wanting to install a rooftop solar array, or you’re an apartment renter that needs something a little smaller and portable, our team at Solar Bear Orlando can help you find the perfect solar solution for your needs!

Ready to talk solar? Call our team at Solar Bear Orlando today; 407-904-7585!

Save On Your Power Bill This Summer with Solar

Summer in Florida can make you feel like a snowcone in…well, Florida. With kids home from school and more people working from their home office, it’s no wonder that electricity costs skyrocket during those sweltering summer months. If you’re looking for a way to beat the heat with your solar system, Solar Bear has five ways to save this summer.

1. Tis the grilling season

Summer is always a great time for grilling, but did you know that it can save you 2-5% in cooling costs? Ovens can increase your home’s temperature by almost 10 degrees which can send your air conditioner into overdrive. So, bring on the burgers!

2. Save your energy

Large appliances like washers, dryers, dishwashers and more are the biggest energy consumers in your home. If you’re ready to update those appliances, look for models with the Energy Star label. Energy Star products generally consume 10-40% less than other models. This can make a big difference with your electric bill savings!

3. Battery up

Using a solar battery can offset peak electric rates. If your solar system includes battery storage, make the most of your surplus energy by utilizing it during higher use rates. By storing excess renewable energy, you have the freedom to use it whenever you need it.

4. No filter

When was the last time you cleaned your AC filter? Because filters collect dust, mold and grime, it’s important to regularly check and clean the air filter in your AC unit. Dirty filters require more energy to run, which can lead to a higher electricity bill.

5. Shine bright

Make sure your solar system is the best it can be! Solar Bear’s team of solar experts can audit your system and recommend energy-saving solutions, just in time for the summer heatwave. Take advantage of the summer sun’s strong rays and longer days with amazing solar savings!

Don’t make it a cruel summer, call Solar Bear today! Based in Tampa, our team can help you create a solar energy plan that works for your family. Sign up for a free estimate today or give us a call at (813) 922-3735 for more information.