Solar Under Different Weather Conditions

When considering the addition of solar panels to your home, understanding how they operate in different conditions is important. Factors that affect solar production include the angle of the sun, length of the day, temperature, and obstructions such as dust and debris. Solar technology has improved dramatically over the last decade, and panels are much more efficient under various seasonal conditions.

The Power of the Sun

Two important factors that affect your solar panels’ output are the sun’s angle in the sky and the length of the day. During the summer, days are longer and the sun is higher in the sky, leading to higher electricity generation. The higher solar generation, in many cases, offsets the higher electricity bills households typically have during the summer months.

In the winter, the sun is lower and days are shorter, meaning there is less time for your panels to generate electricity. And though your system would produce slightly less electricity in the winter, your bill would also typically be lower.

Temperature

The optimal temperature for solar power production is about 77℉. Above that, efficiency begins to degrade. This means that while the sun might be lower in the sky and days are shorter, the temperature in the fall and winter can be more favorable for solar power generation than the ever-increasing summer temperatures. The added efficiency in cooler weather helps mitigate the lower number of daylight hours.

Precipitation

There is a common misconception that precipitation can hinder solar production. In fact, it is quite the opposite. Rain can aid the productivity of your panels by washing away dust and debris. Even in snowy conditions, most snow will melt and slide off your panels without intervention.

Solar panels produce clean and renewable energy under myriad conditions. Installing a system will help you take control of your energy needs and help lower your electricity bill no matter the time of the year. Contact a US Solar Energy specialist today to learn how a home solar system will work under your regional climate.