We are in the middle of Winter and snow is on the ground- which prompted me to consider the concerns that you may have about the effect of snow on your solar panel array
Will snow affect my solar panels?
Will the weight of heavy snow damage them?
Most solar panels are rated for a load of 5000 or more Pascals (Pa- pressure rating) ) which equates to 2-4 feet of snow depending on snow density. So in most cases the answer is no.
Should I clear the snow off my panels to improve power production?
Usually snow will melt quicker than you think- generally thawing quicker than on the ground or even your roof. In order to maximise sun exposure solar arrays are mounted at an angle which, combined with the slick glass surface of the panel, means that the snow cannot stick for long. Once any portion of the panel is exposed to the sun a small amount of heat spreads through the panel and starts to melt the snow, spreading quickly to the rest of the panel.
It is recommended that you do not attempt to clear the snow yourself. You may void the warranty if you inadvertently cause damage to the panels, or worse you could injure yourself.
Snowfall can actually be good for your panels!
As the snow melts off your array it actually provides a free cleaning service! Dust and dirt can build up in the drier summer months which can affect the array’s efficiency, meaning less production. Dust and dirt will be removed as the snow slides off the panels.
SO NO NEED TO WORRY- AS LONG AS YOUR ARRAY HAS BEEN PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED YOUR ARRAY HAS BEEN BUILT TO HANDLE SOME OF THE WORST WEATHER IT MAY ENCOUNTER
If you have any further queries or concerns on the subject please do not hesitate to email the Ace Solar Energy team at info@acesolarenergy.co.uk
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