When it comes to maximizing the efficiency of solar panels, the angle at which they are installed plays a pivotal role. In Maitland, Florida, where the sun is a generous source of energy for most of the year, setting up your solar panels at the optimal angle can significantly enhance your system’s energy production. Best Solar Company in Maitland, FL, is here to guide you through understanding the best angle for your solar panels to ensure you get the most out of your solar investment.
Because the angle of the sun changes depending on the time of day and season of the year, you’ll need to vertically tilt your panels to be perpendicular to the sun’s incoming rays to maximize electricity production.
Why Solar Panels Need a Tilt Angle
During the summer, the sun is higher up in the sky compared to during the winter. Positioning your photovoltaic panels at an average position between the two seasons will maximize your electricity production. This position has a close relationship with the latitude of the location where you are going to house the panels. When you establish this position, you can get the maximum electricity from the sun all year round.
How to Calculate the Tilt Angle for Solar Panels
You can calculate your solar panel’s tilt for each season using the following methods.
- Summer angle – When calculating the tilt angle for your solar panel during summer, subtract 15 degrees from your latitude.
- Winter angle – Add 15 degrees to your latitude when calculating the angle during winter.
- Autumn/Spring angle – Subtract 2.5 degrees to get the angle during fall or spring.
A second method of calculating your solar panel’s tilt accounts for changes in season and midday sun when it is hottest during the day. This method involves multiplying your latitude by 0.9 and adding 29 degrees for winter. For summer, you subtract 23.5 degrees after you have increased your latitude by 0.9. The results from the second method have a variance of plus or minus 10 degrees from those of the first.
Optimal Tilt for Solar-Powered Homes in Florida
By understanding the correct angle for your solar panels, you will get the most out of your investment. For maximum year-round production, the optimal angle for solar panels in Florida homes is 28 degrees from the horizontal, facing to the south. Homeowners can, however, adjust their solar panels to optimize power production based on the demand for electricity in their homes.
Central Florida Solar Power Installation Experts
Investing in renewable, green energy of solar power is a smart decision for any home. Not only will it significantly reduce your home’s energy costs by saving you money on your electric bills, but it also helps protect the environment. To select the best solar panel system for your needs and budget, contact the A+ rated professionals at PES Solar today and ask out our zero-down financing pending credit approval.
