It is generally not recommended to try removing snow from solar panels yourself, as climbing on the roof or using a ladder in icy or slippery conditions can be dangerous.
Instead, it is best to wait for the snow to melt or to hire a professional to do it for you.
If you do decide to try to remove the snow yourself, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Wear proper clothing and equipment, including warm clothing, gloves, and a hat to protect yourself from the cold.
- Use a long-handled broom or roof rake to brush the snow off the panels gently. Avoid using a metal tool, as it can scratch the panels or cause damage.
- Be careful not to damage the panels or the mounting system while removing the snow.
- Avoid standing on the panels while trying to remove the snow, as this can cause them to break or become damaged.
- If the panels are covered in a thick layer of snow, it is best to wait for the snow to melt rather than trying to remove it manually.
- If you cannot safely remove the snow, it is best to wait for it to melt or hire a professional to do it for you.
Alternatively, you can buy a specialized brush to remove the snow on the panels. The downside to this is that it is quite expensive.
This video shows a DIY brush to clean the snow from the solar panels.
How to Automatically remove snow from solar panels
There are a few methods that can be used to remove snow from solar panels automatically:
- Heated panels: Some solar panels are equipped with heating elements that can melt snow and ice on the panels. These panels typically have a higher upfront cost but may be more effective at maintaining high levels of solar energy production in areas with frequent snowfall.
- Automatic panel tilting: Some solar panel systems are designed to tilt automatically in response to snow accumulation. As the panels tilt, the snow will slide off, allowing the panels to continue producing electricity.
- Snow melting cables: Snow melting cables can be installed under the panels to melt snow and ice as it accumulates. These cables typically use electricity to generate heat and are more effective in smaller areas or for use on select panels in a larger solar array.
- Roof de-icing systems: Roof de-icing systems use heating elements or chemical de-icers to prevent snow and ice from accumulating on the roof. These systems can be combined with solar panels to help maintain consistent energy production during winter.
It’s important to note that any method used to remove snow from solar panels should be carefully designed and installed to avoid damaging the panels or the system. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations and local building codes when installing and using these systems is also important.
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I’m an off-grid enthusiast. I created this website to give clear and straight-to-the-point advice about solar power. I’m also the author of the book ‘Off-grid solar power simplified‘. Read more about me on my about page, check out my Youtube channel, or send me a message.