Before making the switch to solar, there are a few things to consider. Apart from the number of panels, size, and design, determining the best direction to install the system is crucial. Positioning solar panels behind a large tree or on the side of the roof away from the sun means they will not be able to charge as efficiently. We want the PV cells to capture as much solar energy as possible, but how do we know where the optimal facing direction is on your property?
South Facing Solar Panels in the US
If you live in the US, your panels should face south. The northern hemisphere has sunlight from the sun hitting its surface from the north to the south. Panels in this region do best with southern exposure because they collect more direct sunlight rays that are most efficient for charging.
If you are wondering where you should install your solar panels, it’s actually pretty simple! All you have to do is pinpoint the hottest and most sun-filled side of your home that is facing due south.
Solar Power and Astronomy 101
When installing solar panels it pays to know a bit about astronomy. In the US, we are in the Northern Hemisphere, which is north of the equator. The equator is the imaginary belt around the planet that separates the hemispheres at 0 degree latitude.
When the earth rotates on its axis, whatever hemisphere is facing the sun requires the other hemisphere to be away from the sun. This makes the seasons. If the sun is coming into the US from the south, it is going to shine to the north of Australians. It will always be the opposite according to the hemisphere.
In the US months of June and July, there will be more sun, whereas Australia will be seeing snow pile up. That is also why the Southern Hemisphere has a tropical, hot December and a cold, frigid July. This makes for a confusing Christmas for Aussies! After all, the holiday showcases songs like “White Christmas” and characters like Frosty the Snowman–not things you see in the heat of summer.
To sum up, in the Northern Hemisphere, the most sun exposure happens in the southern direction the majority of the time. We install solar panels to face the southern direction, so they will receive sun all year in the US and Canada. If you lived in New Zealand, Peru, or Chile, we would install your solar panels to the north.
Choose Vinyasun for Solar Panel Installation
We are a trusted solar installer that provides superior installations for homeowners in Florida.
If you are interested in installing your solar panels for your home, you can get a free quote now and consultation by clicking here! Our process is simple and convenient, schedule a virtual appointment with one of our team members to learn more about going solar.
Further Reading & Resources
[1] What is Net Metering? Everything you need to know 2021
[2] How To Tell If Your Solar Panels Are Working
[3] Generators vs. Solar Batteries: Which Power Backup System is Better?
