3 Factors That Will Affect Your Solar Panel Placement

Solar panels are, without a doubt, one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make to your home. Unlike other home improvements, you won't have to wait to sell your home to see a financial return on your panels. Instead, your solar panels will save you money immediately, helping you climb toward that all-important break-even point.

However, solar panels can be far less forgiving than other home improvements. Unlike putting on an addition or renovating your kitchen, numerous environmental factors will dictate how many panels you can install or where you can place them. Understanding these three critical factors influencing your solar panel placement can help you plan for the perfect installation.

1. Direction and Sunlight

If you're not into astronomy, the movement of the Earth throughout the year and how it impacts the sun's position in the sky can be confusing. However, this movement is a crucial factor when placing your solar panels. The sun's position doesn't just vary throughout the day but also changes through the seasons, with the sun appearing lower in the sky during the winter months.

In the Northern hemisphere, south-facing portions of your home will receive the most direct sunlight year-round, while north-facing portions will receive the least. When placing your solar panels, your installer will want to maximize the number of panels that can face north or, at a minimum, face east or west.

2. Shading

Shading is another major consideration, and some surprising factors can influence the shade your solar panels receive. For example, the height of your home can substantially impact how much light your panels will receive throughout the day. For roof installations, taller homes will more easily clear surrounding obstructions, minimizing the impact of nearby trees or structures.

Your installer will perform a detailed analysis of the shade around your home, helping you to understand the best placement for your panels to achieve maximum efficiency. You'll also need to take your goals into account during this process. If your roof receives too much shade, you may need to consider alternative panel placements if you want to generate a specific amount of energy for your home.

3. Roof Pitch

Roof pitch is another factor that can impact how you place your solar panels, how many panels you need, and what additional work is required to install them. In general, both flat roofs and roofs with steep angles may pose some challenges for installers. Flat roofs may require extra structures to support and angle the panels, and steep roofs usually make installation slower and more difficult.

Fortunately, none of these issues will prevent you from enjoying the benefits of solar panels. A skilled installer can develop an effective plan for nearly any location or roof style. Understanding the factors influencing this plan can help you manage your expectations to get the perfect solar panel installation for your needs.  

For more info about solar panel installation, contact a local company.