When preparing for a solar panel installation, many people wonder whether they should tilt the panels or keep them flat. “What’s the best angle for solar panels?” is a common question, and here’s a detailed explanation by Solar Secure.
Why Is the Angle of Solar Panels Important?
The angle at which you install your solar panels significantly impacts their efficiency for generating solar energy. Capturing more sun at the ideal angle means your solar system produces more energy, which can power your home and potentially generate more feed-in tariff credits.
Aside from the angle, some general rules for maximizing solar panel output include positioning them on a north-facing roof and aligning them perpendicular to the sun. At Solar Secure, our certified installers always take care of this, as it’s important to have an idea on the perfect tilt while installing Solar panels on the roof.
The Best Angle for Solar Panels
The best angle for solar panels varies depending on your location. The ideal angle is equal to the latitude of your home’s location. Here are the optimal angles for Australia’s capital cities
- Sydney: 33.9 degrees
- Melbourne: 37.8 degrees
- Perth: 31.9 degrees
- Brisbane: 27.5 degrees
- Hobart: 42.9 degrees
- Adelaide: 34.9 degrees
- Darwin: 12.5 degrees
If you’re building a new home, consider constructing your roof with a pitch equal to your latitude angle for optimal solar conditions. For existing homes, you may need professional mounting to achieve the ideal angle.
Seasonal Adjustments
The optimal angle for solar panels changes during winter. To maximize sun exposure in winter, add 15 degrees to your latitude angle of your solar panels. This adjustment to the solar panels can affect year-round benefits. While complex mounting structures allowing manual angle changes are available, they are often cost-prohibitive for most homeowners.
For sunny states like Queensland, the angle might not be as crucial in summer due to abundant sunlight, but it can make a difference in winter. Therefore, consider installing with winter conditions in mind.
Using Your Natural Roof Pitch
For existing homes, using the natural pitch of your roof is the most cost-effective option. The angle of household roofs varies, so installation outcomes will differ. The alternative is mounting solar panels to achieve the optimal angle. If your roof pitch is close to your latitude angle, mounting might be unnecessary. However, if your roof’s orientation is inefficient, mounting could be beneficial.
Consider The Expense of Mounting
Mounting solar panels to achieve the optimal angle adds to the initial installation cost. It’s important to weigh the financial benefits of increased efficiency against the cost of mounting. While more power can be generated over the lifespan of the solar panels, the financial payoff might not always justify the expense.
Efficiency Losses from Incorrect Angling
If you use your roof’s natural pitch, expect a slight efficiency decrease. A deviation of 10-15 degrees from the optimal angle results in about 1-1.5% efficiency loss. With any roof pitch, efficiency loss is minimal. However, flat roofs experience more significant losses, especially in southern locations. For example, in Sydney, a flat roof can result in up to 13% efficiency loss, while in Darwin, the loss is minimal.
Additional Considerations
- Maintenance and Durability : When installing solar panels, consider their maintenance and durability. Panels tilted at the optimal angle can help with natural cleaning by rain, reducing dust and debris accumulation. Properly mounted panels also ensure better ventilation, preventing overheating and prolonging their lifespan.
- Energy Goals and Future Expansion : Your energy goals and potential for future expansion should influence your decision. If you plan to add more solar panels later, ensure your current setup can accommodate this. A well-thought-out initial installation can save costs and simplify future upgrades.
- Environmental Impact : Installing solar panels at the correct angle not only maximizes energy production but also enhances your contribution to environmental sustainability. Efficient solar panels reduce reliance on fossil fuels and decrease your carbon footprint, promoting a greener future.
- Expert Solar Installation : If you’re uncertain about the best angle for your solar panels, don’t worry. Solar Secure’s team are experts in solar panel installation in Australia and can handle everything for you. We’ll help you decide between using your existing roof pitch or mounting the panels. Additionally, we analyze your energy usage patterns to recommend the perfect solar system for your home. For a free quote, contact Solar Secure today and we’ll be happy to assist you.
Conclusion
Choosing the optimal angle for your solar panels is crucial for maximizing energy production and ensuring long-term benefits. While using your roof’s natural pitch is cost-effective, considering professional mounting for the ideal angle can enhance efficiency, especially in regions with significant seasonal variations. By weighing the costs, benefits, and potential energy savings, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your energy goals and financial considerations.
If you’re uncertain about the best angle for your solar panels, don’t worry. Solar Secure’s team are experts in solar panel installation in Australia and can handle everything for you. We’ll help you decide between using your existing roof pitch or mounting the panels. Additionally, we analyze your energy usage patterns to recommend the perfect solar system for your home.