Deciding to switch to solar power is a big decision. There are understandably several concerns a homeowner might have when it comes to the reliability of solar energy. One concern many people have is the ability of the sun to provide enough power through the panels on your roof. Living in Florida, it is natural to worry about those common cloudy days. Understanding peak sun hours is key to knowing how the solar panels will handle those less sunny days.
What Are Peak Sun Hours?
A peak sun hour is the amount of time for which your solar panels are receiving the maximum amount of output that the sun has to offer. At these times, the sun is generating 1,000 watts of photovoltaic power per square meter. These hours are not a reflection of how much sunlight you see each day, but rather the amount of time for which your home receives direct, intense sunlight.
Successful Solar Panels
For your home to be successful in switching to solar energy, you must first make sure you will be receiving the required minimum amount of peak sunlight. Each household uses a different amount of power depending on family size, home size, and lifestyle. So, you would need to consider the amount of power required to keep your family going. The typical household requires approximately four hours of peak sunlight to sustain a solar energy-powered home. Four hours may seem like a short amount of time, but keep in mind trees and other obstructions that can have an effect on the exposure.
Does My Home Get Enough Sunlight?
Living in Florida certainly gives you an advantage when it comes to solar power. A typical Florida home receives an average of 5.5 peak sunlight hours per day. Trimming excess tree branches that cast shade over your roof can help extend the number of hours available to your home. Sun exposure hours increase during the warmer seasons, which occur most of the year in the Sunshine State. If anyone can be successful at turning their home into one powered entirely by clean energy, it is a Floridian.
Finding Out If Solar Is Right for You
If you are looking to take the next step in determining your potential success at switching to solar, PES Solar in Dr. Phillips, FL is here to answer any questions you may have. We will come out and discuss your home’s ability to absorb peak sunlight hours and your potential success in using clean energy.
