Where Should You Place Your Solar Panels at Home?

By: John Garcia | Date Posted: January 27, 2023

Did you know that 12% of all renewable energy consumed in the US in 2021 came from solar energy?

After the first year of the pandemic, more people switched to solar panels. This is to reduce their carbon footprint and ensure their homes are energy efficient. Apart from its environmental benefits, going solar also saves money.

If you’re considering switching to solar panels for your home, you’re likely wondering where to put them. In this solar panel guide, we break down everything you need to know about where to put solar panels at home.

Factors to Consider for Optimal Solar Panel Placement

Solar Power 1

Placing solar panels at home takes careful consideration. There are several factors that should come into play.

This includes direct sunlight and even areas of your roof that are suitable.

For optimal sun exposure, solar panels should ideally be installed facing south in the northern hemisphere. Meanwhile, your solar panels should be facing the north if you are in the southern hemisphere.

Additionally, you may also need to consider other environmental factors. The presence of trees and nearby buildings may cast a shadow on your solar panels.

Before you install your solar panels, observe whether the target area is shaded at certain times or months. Shade reduces the amount of energy the system will need to produce to reach its maximum power output.

Mounting the panels at an optimal angle on the roof can be beneficial to maximize the amount of sunlight they receive. If you are limited in roof space, ground mounting may be an alternative option.

Finally, you may want to maintain a comfortable distance from utility lines to avoid any potential issues. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can ensure the solar panels give optimal energy efficiency.

Analyzing Roof Orientation and Angle of Incidence

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Solar Panels for Your Home

Roof orientation is the direction that your roof faces. The angle of incidence refers to the angle at which the sun’s rays hit your roof. It’s important to properly analyze your roof’s orientation and angle of incidence when it comes to placing solar panels at home.

Depending on your roof’s shape and orientation, you may need to consider adjusting the angles of incidence for your solar panels. The panels should be tilted at an angle to capture the greatest amount of sunlight during the different seasons. It can be 30 to 40 degrees in summer and 70 to 80 degrees in winter.

Your best option is to adjust the angle at which the solar panels are set to receive more direct sunlight. Typically, the southernmost side of your roof is ideal for solar panels. That is because that side receives the most sunlight.

Shared Roofs and Multiple Solar Panels

Shared Roofs and Multiple Solar Panels

The placement of solar panels for a shared roof or multiple solar panels depends on the type of roof. The amount of available space should also be considered.

If you have a flat roof, solar panels should be placed toward the south side. This will help maximize sun exposure and optimize yield.

If you have a sloped roof, solar panel placement should take into account how the panels should be angled to collect energy best. If you have multiple solar panels, they can be staggered on the roof to maximize their collective energy output.

Additionally, you should ensure that the solar panels are spaced far enough apart. You want to avoid their shadows falling over each other.

Taking the size and orientation of the roof into account is vital for ensuring a successful installation and optimal solar energy output. Without proper planning, it’s likely that rooftop solar systems won’t be effective and will result in a lower return on investment.

Addressing Shaded Areas and Trees

Installation of Solar Panels 1

Shades from trees and other objects can reduce the amount of sunlight your panels receive and can cause your system to produce less electricity. You should consider mounting your panels higher if a tree or building does shade part of your house. You can install your solar panels on the roof rather than on the ground.

Trim any branches of a tree near your home that shade it if needed. Trees should also be planted away from the area where your solar panel will be installed in order to avoid future shading.

With the proper placement of solar panels, you can be sure to get maximum sunlight and optimal energy output from your system.

Connecting with Professionals for Successful Installation

If you’re considering using solar panels to power your home, you may want to connect with professionals who are experts in installing solar panel systems. Professionals can help determine where and how you’ll place your solar panels in order to get the most out of them.

Experts in solar panel position and installation would immediately know the best angle for the panels in order to maximize the exposure to sunlight. Professionals can help determine the best spot for your solar panel placement.

Furthermore, you should think about how installing solar panels affects the aesthetic of your home, balancing the advantages of solar energy with the look of your home. Experts in installing solar panels are mindful of your home’s structure when calculating the placement of the solar panels.

Professionals can also help with other details. These details include the angle of the solar panel support, safety measures, and maintenance checks. As a result, it is important to connect with experienced professionals when installing a home solar system to ensure optimal solar production.

Make the Most Out of Your Solar Panels

Installing solar panels can be a great way to reduce your home energy costs, but it’s important to consider where you place them. Many different factors should be considered to ensure efficiency.

Strategically placing your solar panels will ensure they get the most sunlight and generate the most electricity. Talk to an expert to decide the best placement for your solar panels, and get started today!

Like our home tips? Always check our blog for more articles about home improvement!

Thank you for reading!

John
 

John is the founder and chief editor of Homienjoy. With over 15 years of experience in the home improvement industry, John is passionate about helping homeowners confidently tackle their projects. Holding a civil engineering degree and working as a contractor, project manager, and consultant, John brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Homienjoy community.

Click Here to Leave a Comment Below 0 comments