Solar panels have been selling like hot cakes throughout the U.S., mainly because switching to solar energy saves people tons of money, while allowing them to do good for the planet. But while we’re speaking of things that are hot, let’s talk about how heat affects solar panels. Does the amount of sunlight and the strength of the sun’s rays in your region affect the performance of solar panels? The answer is yes: solar panels get hot, and excess heat does affect them, but fortunately not too much, because they are built to withstand high temperatures.
How Hot Do Solar Panels Get?
When it is hot out, your roof gets hot, as well – and if you have solar panels on your roof, they will also get very hot, because the sun beats directly on them all day long. In fact, your solar panels are around 20 degrees hotter than the air temperature!
How Does Heat Affect Solar Panels?
Solar panels come into their own during the day when the sun is shining directly on them. But what about on super hot days, when that extra 20 degrees can make them hit temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit? ? Well, the good news is that solar panels are thoroughly tested and put through extreme temperatures as high as 185 degrees Fahrenheit. That being said, solar panels are at maximum efficiency between 59 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning when it gets too hot, their efficiency decreases. Don’t worry, though, the decrease in efficiency is actually very slight and depends on the type of solar panel you have. The more durable and highly efficient ones will take less of a hit, while cheaper ones will lose more efficiency. The formula used to calculate efficiency is:
Efficiency = (Max current x Max voltage) / input power from the sun
One of our trained agents can do this calculation for you, so that you receive the best solar panels for your climate.
Preventing/Reducing Heat On Solar Panels
There are a number of ways to make sure your solar panels stay as efficient as possible even on the hottest of days:
- Have installers install the panels a few inches above the roof so air can flow through and help cool down the panels.
- Add a ventilation fan.
- Install a thermometer to monitor your solar panels.
- Avoid black solar panels because they absorb more heat. Stick to lighter colored solar panels.
Finding An Affordable Solar Panel System
Solar panels go through some intense testing before they hit the market, but nothing is invincible, including solar panels. Too much heat can begin to affect their efficiency, so you’ll need some guidance on finding the right panels for your part of the country. The best way to get the most out of your solar panels is to compare panels from different companies to find the best, most affordable ones. Go Solar Energy can compare all plans in your area in minutes, and will find you affordable, highly efficient solar panels for your home or business. It’s getting hot out, but you can still save more money on your energy bills with Go Solar Energy! To get free instant quotes, simply enter your zip code in the bar on our homepage, or to speak with an agent, call 888-290-3112.