September 18, 2024
Living in Reno, winter brings images of skis slicing through powdery slopes, crisp winds, and the sparkle of fresh snow under the sun.
Like it or not, snow is a big part of life here. On average, Reno sees a decent amount of snowfall each year, with a record high of 63.8 inches.
If you've invested in solar power in Reno, you might be wondering how all this snow affects your energy production. When your panels are covered, they can't generate as much electricity, which may cut into your output with the shorter winter days. Hence, you'll want to start thinking about ways to keep your panels efficient all season long.
However, removing snow from solar panels isn't as easy as it sounds. Improper techniques can lead to costly damage and even safety hazards.
In this post, our roofing company in Reno will guide you through the importance of proper solar panel snow removal, how to do it safely, and the risks of getting it wrong.
If you live somewhere that only gets light snow, you won't need to worry much about cleaning snow off solar panels. A light dusting usually isn't enough to block sunlight completely, so your solar panels can still produce some energy.
But in Reno, the snow is heavier and doesn't always slide off as easily. Given the cold temperatures, it can build up and stay put on your solar panels, especially if they're not installed at a steep enough angle.
Ice buildup is another significant problem. When the snow melts and refreezes on your panels, it adds extra weight that can cause damage. You could end up with scratches, cracks, or even broken glass - costly repairs you could easily avoid with proper snow management.
Now that we know how snow can affect how your solar panels work let's explore some of the best methods to safely remove it:
Manual snow removal is one of the most common approaches to keeping your panels clear. Here's what you'll need:
Also, remember to use light sweeping motions; avoid applying too much pressure. Wear gloves with a good grip to keep your hands warm and safe.
If manual work sounds like too much hassle, you can opt for an automated snow removal system.
It's best to hire an experienced technician if you go this route.
Not everyone is comfortable removing snow from solar panels on their own and that's okay! Hiring professionals can save you time and prevent accidents.
Consider hiring experts if your solar panel system is difficult to access or if you're concerned about safety. Professional services use the right tools and techniques to remove snow efficiently without risking damage to your solar energy system.
Make sure the service you choose specializes in solar panel cleaning and maintenance. Ask them about their experience working with solar panels, what kind of equipment they use, and whether they're insured.
Instead of constantly worrying about clearing snow, wouldn't it be easier to prevent it from building up in the first place? As such, we've compiled some simple, effective ways to keep your solar panels in Reno snow-free:
A good tilt can help the heavy snow shed faster and reduce the need for manual removal. If your panels are too flat, you're more likely to have snow sit on top and block sunlight.
Talk to your installer about the best tilt and orientation for snowy weather. If you already have panels installed, and they're too flat, you might want to consider adjusting their angle to improve snow shedding.
Clean your solar panels as regularly as possible. Dirt, leaves, and debris can pile up on your solar panels and make it harder for snow to slide off smoothly.
A quick wipe down a few times a year will go a long way in preventing buildup. Use soft tools to avoid scratches and stay safe by working from the ground or hiring professionals for the job.
If snow buildup is a recurring issue in your area, we recommend installing snow-melting systems designed for solar panels. While they do require an upfront investment, they can save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
Improper snow removal can do more harm than good. Let's dive into some of the major risks associated with it and why it's important to handle the job carefully:
The biggest risk when you remove snow from solar panels is damaging them. If you're using the wrong tools like a metal shovel or something rough you could scratch the glass.
In the worst case, you might crack or even break snow-covered panels, and that's going to cost you money.
To avoid this, stick with soft tools like a foam-headed snow roof rake or a soft-bristled broom. Take your time, and don't rush it being careful goes a long way!
Always turn off the solar panels before you start to remove snow and be sure to avoid touching any wires or connections. Use insulated gloves to protect yourself from electric shocks. If you're unsure about what's safe to handle, call a pro who knows how to safely deal with solar panel systems. Better safe than sorry!
As snow melts, the water needs somewhere to go. If your roof or panels don't have proper drainage, water can pool around them or even seep into your home. And before you know it, you're looking at roof repairs in Reno.
Clear any debris from gutters and downspouts so the water can flow away easily when the snow melts. Proper drainage will protect both your panels and your home.
The key to solar panel snow removal is to use safe and effective methods to keep your energy savings up. By taking the right steps and staying on top of maintenance, you'll make sure your panels keep performing at their best even in the dead of winter.
At Mountain Vista Roof Systems, we specialize in solar panel installations designed to withstand the harsh winter months in Nevada. With us, you can ensure that your solar panels remain clear and efficient all year long.
Contact us for a consultation today!
