The days are growing shorter, and a nip is in the air. Frost-covered lawns and rooftops greet us every morning. This is the time of year when our attention is focused on properly heating our home, all the while keeping utility bills as low as possible. For those with solar energy installations, what maintenance is required? How do you care for the solar panels in the winter months? Let's explore those questions and more.
Protect Your Battery -
The brutal cold can affect your solar batteries if exposed in the open. Protecting batteries from freezing is key to getting healthy performance out of them. If you have an outbuilding like a shed or garage, consider installing your batteries here and keep the space well ventilated. Depending on the type of battery you own, now is the time to consult the manufacturer’s manual about routine maintenance and care. Lithium-ion batteries are the most reliable and long-lasting batteries and can withstand cold weather. The top of the line Li-ion solar battery manufacturers are Tesla, Generac, and LG.
Solar Panel Care -
During prolonged periods of snowfall, snow and ice may collect on your solar panels. Usually, the warmth of the sun and the material of solar panels will eventually melt any remaining snow. If need be, snow and ice can be gently removed using a broom. NOTE - this is a safety-first situation and depends on the type and roof style of the home. Do not attempt to clear solar panels in snowy or icy conditions. Adjusting the angle of your solar panels to a 15-degree angle is also recommended during the winter season. Top-of-the-line solar installers install solar panels on such angles that even normal light from the sun will give warmth to solar plates and will melt and slip the snow automatically.
Solar panels can withstand blizzards and still produce electricity on cloudy days. If there is light in the sky, your solar panels will continue to produce electricity.
Save Energy -
If you are producing solar energy smartly, you should also consume it in the same manner. You would be surprised how tiny steps and precautions would make such a huge difference in energy saving. Make the most of your solar energy installation during cold weather by taking the following steps that save energy. The process can be as easy as 1,2,3:
- Poor insulation can cause drafts and warm air to escape your home. Ensuring that your home is sufficiently insulated not only makes rooms more comfortable it also reduces utility costs.
- Consider changing all high-watt light bulbs to energy-efficient LED bulbs. The U.S Department of Energy says, "Lighting accounts for around 15% of an average home's electricity use, and the average household saves about $225 in energy costs per year by using LED lighting."
- The easiest way to save energy in the home is to remember to switch off lights, TVs, fans, and other electronics in empty rooms.
No matter the season, solar energy installations are increasing all over the country. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), In 2020, a new solar project was installed every 75 seconds! Thinking about adding solar panels to your home or business? Find answers here. Yellowlite installs solar panels in residential and commercial buildings. Contact us for more information today! www.yellowlite.com
