As we embrace the winter season, many homeowners and businesses with solar panel installations may notice a dip in their energy production. The colder months bring about unique challenges for solar power generation, leading to lower efficiency levels compared to the sun-drenched days of summer. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind the lower solar power production during winter and discuss how advancements in technology and strategic considerations can help mitigate these effects. 

Why Aren’t My Solar Panels Working in the Winter?

When panels are covered in snow, they may not be getting enough sunlight to turn your microinverters on. With advanced technology, your panels can sense when production is askew; you may see an error code with any amount of snow on your panels. 

What Should I Do If My Solar Panels Are Covered In Snow?

Give the system time, sun, and warmer temps. The system is still operational and producing, but not as much as on a summer day. 

We do not recommend going up on the roof and clearing the snow away. The panels are installed at a tilted angle and the high-reflectivity glass will heat up quicker than you think, melting the snow on its own.    

If you have a ground mount system, we also recommend you let the snow melt naturally. Using incorrect brushes to clear the snow can scratch the glass or damage your solar panels. Tampering with the solar panels without a licensed contractor could lead to a void in your 25-year warranty.  

If I Shouldn’t Clear the Snow, How Long Will It Take to Clear Itself?

This depends on how much snow we get and the angle of your panels. Arch has been installing solar systems in Wisconsin for 20 years, so we plan for the snow.  

If we receive a medium snowfall overnight and the next day has some sun, you should see your panels clearing up by mid-day. This is not a guarantee, since Wisconsin sometimes gets multiple days of snow in a row. More snow would lengthen the time for your panels to clear.  

Is the Snow Melting Off My Panels Dangerous?

Generally, your snow will melt throughout the day and should slide off accordingly. With larger weather events, the snow can fall in larger clumps. If you have a roof-mounted system, we recommend being mindful of where the snow will fall (similar to watching out for icicles from your garage!).  

 One way to reduce dangerous snowfall is to install Alpine Snowguard.  Alpine’s three-component system holds snow and ice in position to allow it to melt and shed gradually, instead of all at once, preventing injuries to pedestrians and property damage.  

 Snowguard can increase safety but keep in mind: it may lower production of your panels, since it will lengthen the time for your snow and ice to slide off naturally.  

Arch’s Energy Consultants are trained on snowguard technology and can discuss the best option for your array. 

Is There Anything I Can Do to Prevent Production Loss in the Winter?

While we can’t control Mother Nature, we can plan accordingly.

1. Plan for correct production. When you receive a customized solar proposal from Arch, we account for 3-6% snow loss every year in our calculations. That means your expected production should match what we show you when you purchase your system. 
2. Use current technology to your advantage. Ongoing advancements in solar technology, such as anti-reflective coatings and more efficient solar cells, contribute to improved performance in low-light conditions. Arch consistently researches and stocks the most reliable panel for our Wisconsin neighbors to brave every season. 

What If There is No Snow on My Solar Panels and I Still See an Error?

If there is no snow on your solar array and you receive an error message, please contact support@archsolar.com  

Arch Solar has a dedicated service and quality management team to make sure we work through any issues with your array. 

While winter may bring a decline in solar power production, understanding the factors influencing this decrease allows us to develop strategies to mitigate its impact. By implementing smart design and leveraging technological innovations, we can continue to harness the power of the sun even in the colder seasons, making solar energy a reliable and sustainable source throughout the year.