NASA Mars Rover proves why Solar Panel orientation is important

One of the most important questions you'll be asked when you're discussing a solar panel installation on your home with the installation company (or even before that when you're getting your title="online solar panel quotes">solar panel quote), is in which direction does your roof point?

To make the most of what a solar panel can offer in terms of its output, the panel/s need to be in full sunshine for as long as possible. Overhanging trees and neighbouring tall buildings can shade a panel to much, to make it effective.

If shading is a problem, you're installation company may be able to offer an alternative panel design which incorporates single cells -if one cell is shaded, the others still continue to work etc.

Shading isn't just restricted to trees and buildings 'overhanging'. Accumulations of dirt, fallen leaves etc will also reduce your solar panels efficiency - read our previous post on solar panel maintenance.

Even high-tech space probes can fall foul of the all important orientation to the Sun as NASA announced last week they'd finally given up trying to free the Mars Spirit rover from it's 'sand bunker' and have conceded that, although as a stationary scientific station, it will still continue to function, because of it's position, it's own solar arrays won't collect enough Sun to power it until the Martian Summer arrives.

You can read more about the Mars Spirit mission here.

photo credit: chadica

How to keep solar panels working efficiently during Winter

When looking out at the dark mornings and dark evenings, you could be forgiven for thinking solar panels don't work in the Winter at all.

However, there's still plenty of daylight to be had and whilst the shorter hours mean you won't generate much, you should still be able to generate a little.

So, if you've got solar panels already fitted and installed, then there are one or two 'housekeeping' chores you can carry out to keep your solar panels working at their most efficient.

Basically, anything that stops light reaching the panels is going to have an adverse effect so it's a good idea to give your solar panels surface a clean to remove any accumulation of dirt or grime.

Probably best not to attempt climbing on the roof for this one, try an extendable handle mounted squeegee with a little soapy water.

The panel should generate enough heat to melt a few snow flakes but for heavier snowfalls, consider clearing the snow off of the panel section.

There are also a number of specialist cleaners available for solar panels that work with a hose pipe attachment - a bit like a car cleaner system - so ask your local installer - they have details of what's recommended for your solar panel brand. Don't forget to follow the manufacturers instructions.

That's it. Keeping your solar panels clean or free from heavy snowfalls will make a big difference to how they perform for you during the winter.

photo credit: brian kusler