How can you determine the optimal angle and orientation for solar panels?

2 Orientation matters

The second factor to consider is the orientation of your solar panels. The best orientation for solar panels is to face south in the northern hemisphere, and north in the southern hemisphere. This way, they can capture the most sunlight throughout the day. However, depending on your roof shape, size, and shading, you may not be able to install your solar panels exactly facing south or north. In that case, you can still get good results by orienting them within 45 degrees of the optimal direction. For example, if you live in Los Angeles, which has a latitude of about 34 degrees, you can orient your solar panels anywhere between southeast and southwest, and still get about 90% of the optimal output.

3 Climate matters

The third factor to consider is the climate of your location. The amount and type of cloud cover, humidity, temperature, and precipitation can affect the performance of your solar panels. For example, if you live in a cloudy or foggy area, you may want to increase the tilt angle of your solar panels to avoid dust and dirt accumulation, and to capture more diffuse sunlight. If you live in a hot or humid area, you may want to decrease the tilt angle of your solar panels to improve the air circulation and cooling, and to avoid overheating and power loss. If you live in a snowy or rainy area, you may want to install your solar panels at a steeper angle to shed off snow and water, and to prevent ice formation and corrosion.

4 Tools and resources

The fourth factor to consider is the availability of tools and resources to help you determine the optimal angle and orientation for your solar panels. There are many online calculators, apps, and software that can estimate the best settings for your solar panels based on your location, roof characteristics, and energy needs. Some examples are PVWatts, Solar Angle Calculator, and Solmetric SunEye. You can also use a solar pathfinder, a device that shows the sun's path and potential shading on your site, or a solar tracker, a device that automatically adjusts the angle and orientation of your solar panels to follow the sun throughout the day.

5 Experiment and monitor

The fifth factor to consider is the possibility of experimenting and monitoring your solar panels to find the best angle and orientation for your specific situation. You can try different settings and compare the results using a solar meter, a device that measures the solar irradiance and power output of your solar panels. You can also use a data logger, a device that records and stores the performance data of your solar panels over time. By analyzing the data, you can identify the optimal angle and orientation for your solar panels, and make adjustments as needed.

6 Benefits and challenges

The sixth factor to consider is the benefits and challenges of optimizing the angle and orientation of your solar panels. The benefits are obvious: you can increase the efficiency, productivity, and lifespan of your solar panels, and save money and energy in the long run. The challenges are mainly related to the installation, maintenance, and cost of your solar panels. You may need to hire a professional installer, buy additional equipment, and perform regular cleaning and inspection of your solar panels. You may also face some limitations due to your roof design, structure, and orientation, as well as local regulations, codes, and permits.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?