Do Solar Panels Work in the Winter?
November 17, 2022
Many people believe that warm, sunny days are the only time solar panels are effective. While they perform at peak levels when exposed to direct sunlight, they can still work very well during the winter.
Performance in Cold Weather
Although it may seem odd, cold weather can actually help with the production of energy that solar panels give off. Since solar panels operate like many other electronic devices, they typically function better in cooler temperatures rather than warmer ones. Colder months can also be a great time to install solar panels since the demand for them is at its lowest and they tend to be less expensive.
Impact of Snowfall on Solar Panels
Cold weather won’t have an impact on your solar panel’s performance, but snow can affect the overall level of energy produced by them. Even if you live in an area where snowfall is common in the winter, that doesn’t mean that solar panels are not a good option for you. The overall impact will be dependent on how much snow accumulates on top of your panels. Light dustings won’t cause much of a disturbance, but heavier snow can decrease production levels.
The good news is that solar panels are installed at an angle in order to help them soak up UV rays. This also helps with reducing the buildup of snow and other debris because most of it can slide off relatively easily as long as you choose solar panels that do not include frames along the edges.
Energy Production During Shorter Days
The amount of daylight during winter months is much shorter than it is in the summer. This can reduce the total time your solar panels are working at optimal efficiency, but the amount of sunlight they receive in the winter months is more than enough to keep them operational. It’s important to consider the total amount of time your panels are exposed to the sun throughout the year as opposed to one specific day.
Solar panels can be a great investment even during the winter months. If you live in Show Low, Arizona or the surrounding area and are ready to learn more, the professionals at Rim Country Mechanical, Inc. can help. In addition to providing solar solutions, our team of trusted professionals can help with HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair, as well as refrigeration and indoor air quality services. Contact us today for more information.