Short days and snow make many people think a solar plant sits idle in winter. In fact it works, just less. Here is what to know.
Cold does not hurt panels
Solar modules work more efficiently at low temperatures than in the heat, so a clear frosty day can be quite productive. Winter output is lower because of short days and a low sun, not because of the cold.
What to do about snow
On tilted panels snow usually slides off on its own once the sun warms them a little. If you want to clean them, use a soft brush on a long handle.
- Do not scrape ice with metal tools: you can scratch the glass.
- Do not pour hot water on panels: a sudden temperature change can damage the glass.
- Do not climb onto the roof in frost or ice. Safety matters more than a few kilowatt-hours.
Batteries like warmth
The lithium iron phosphate batteries we install should not be charged below zero. That is why they go in a warm room: a boiler room, garage or utility room. Modern management systems protect the battery from charging in the cold automatically.
Check the plant before winter
In autumn it is worth inspecting mounts, cables and connections and reviewing monitoring data. Our clients get this check as part of their service plan.