Winter is coming.

But, no, seriously, winter is actually coming.

And whether you have already switched to solar or are considering it, you might be wondering how solar panels work in the colder months. Plus, can snow and less sunlight damage or make them less efficient? 

So the short answer is your panels will be just fine in the winter. If anything, they may actually work more efficiently. Now if you’re sitting there trying to figure out how that works, let’s go over it in more detail. 

How do Solar Panels work better in the Winter? 

Turns out that solar panels’ proficiency increases when they are cold, which means it will convert energy much faster for you and continue to save you money. Plus with the winter sun shining at a more indirect angle, the light can reflect off of snow and ice. This will expose the panels to additional rays of sun. 

Will my Solar Panels work with snow?

Generally, yes your solar panels should work fine with snow on them. However, if you live in an area that experiences extremely heavy snowfall, talk to your installer ahead of time. They’ll be able to  calculate the best position and angle to install your panels. This will allow your panels to be angled properly so snow won’t be able to build up on it. 

Will snow damage my Solar Panels?

Most snow or ice will not damage your solar panels. Keep in mind that these devices are designed to be outside and are crafted purposefully for that. However, if you are concerned about your panels withstanding the winter, we would highly recommend contacting your installer to have your system inspected prior to heavy winter months. That way any damage, even the smallest bit, can be detected and fixed immediately. Here at Solar Me we work with certified, local installers to make sure your solar panels are installed correctly and maintained with no stress.

Can I remove snow off my solar panels myself?

No. Do not ever remove built-up snow from solar panels by yourself. Solar panels are generally installed in spots that could be dangerous to get to (ie your roof) and the top layers of glass can be damaged if not handled properly. A small amount of snow should have little to no effect on your panels’ efficiency and generally, the sun will quickly melt off excess snow. If you have a particularly large amount of snow on your panels or are worried that snowfall has recently decreased the amount of electricity you are receiving, immediately contact your installer so they can check it for you. 

So, to sum it all up, generally, you have nothing to worry about when it comes to winter weather and your solar panels. Continue to maintain your system and communicate any concerns with your installer just like you would at any other time of the year. Your panels will continue performing just fine and you’ll continue to save no matter the weather. 

If you have questions about maintaining your system for the upcoming winter, contact us at Solar Me today. Thinking about switching to solar? Let us know and we’ll offer you a free quote!

Written by Mikaela Klimovitz | December 1, 2021