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How to Clean Snow Off Solar Systems: Solar Panel Snow Removal

Writer's picture: Sarah LozanovaSarah Lozanova

solar panel snow rake

While winter weather can challenge solar panel efficiency, a light dusting of snow typically isn’t a major concern—especially with shorter daylight hours during the season. But, snow accumulation can significantly hinder performance in areas with heavy snowfall. 


Snow on your solar panels blocks sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic (PV) cells, reducing energy production. Although modern PV systems are designed to handle cold conditions, significant snow buildup can cause a noticeable dip in performance, even on sunny days.


In regions with lighter snowfall, the impact is often minimal, and removing small amounts of snow may not be necessary. But, in areas prone to more frequent or heavier snowfall, regularly cleaning snow off solar panels is essential to maintaining efficiency and maximizing energy production. Using a solar panel snow rake, along with general system maintenance and timely repairs, helps keep your system running smoothly. This prevents costly issues and ensures continued savings on electricity bills.


With over 12 years of experience in the solar industry, GreenLancer is here to guide homeowners on how to clean snow off solar panels safely and effectively. Whether you need advice on solar panel snow removal or ongoing system maintenance, we’re here to help you get the most from your solar investment—regardless of the weather.


Dos and Don’ts of Solar Panel Snow Removal

Prioritize safety and not damaging your array when determining how to clean snow off solar panels.


Do

  • Use Soft, Non-Metal Tools: When determining how to clean snow, choose tools like a solar panel snow rake with a rubber or foam head to avoid scratches or damage.

  • Clean Snow Off Solar Panels After Heavy Storms: Promptly remove snow from solar panels after storms if you can do so safely.

  • Monitor Weather Conditions: Plan solar panel snow removal during safe weather conditions to reduce risks.

  • Work Safely From the Ground: Use tools with extendable poles, such as a solar panel snow rake, to reach your array without climbing, prioritizing safety.


Don’t

  • Don’t Climb Onto Roofs Without Safety Measures: Accessing your roof can be dangerous without proper safety gear and precautions.

  • Avoid Using Hot Water or Chemicals: These can damage your panels and leave residues that reduce efficiency.

  • Never Use Sharp Tools or Metal Scrapers: These can harm your panels, wiring, or mounting structure.

  • Don’t Walk on Solar Panels or Wiring: Walking on panels can cause cracks or damage to your system’s performance.


How to Clean Snow Off Solar Panels

Here are some effective methods to consider for solar panel snow removal.


Using a Solar Panel Snow Rake

One of the safest approaches for solar panel snow removal is by using a solar panel snow rake designed specifically for this purpose. These lightweight rakes feature non-abrasive materials, ensuring your panels won't get scratched or damaged.


Many solar panel snow rakes come with long, extendable poles, allowing you to access the solar array from the ground without needing a ladder. Removing snow from solar panels with a solar panel snow rake from the ground reduces the risk of slipping or falling, especially on icy rooftops.


However, always be cautious during the snow removal process. Snow can suddenly slide off the panels in large chunks, creating potential safety hazards. Stand to the side of the array whenever possible, and never place yourself directly under a panel while clearing snow.


Installing a Solar Panel Snow Guard

If you live in a snowy area, a solar panel snow guard can be a game-changer. These guards are designed to keep heavy snow from piling up on your panels by allowing snow to slide off in smaller, safer amounts. This helps prevent damage to both your solar panels and their mounting structures.


Snow guards are a smart investment for homeowners in snow-prone regions. They reduce the stress that snow and ice can put on your system, helping maintain its performance and minimizing the need for constant snow removal. By reducing snow buildup and preventing ice formation, snow guards can extend the life of your solar panels and ensure they stay efficient all winter long.


Alpine SnowGuards offers effective snow management products designed specifically for solar panels. Their Solar SnowMax-Universal and Solar Snow Dog models are tailored to prevent snow buildup while protecting your solar system.


  • Solar SnowMax-Universal: This versatile snow guard is designed to fit a variety of roof types and helps reduce snow accumulation, preventing large snowfalls from sliding off too quickly and potentially damaging your solar panels.

  • Solar Snow Dog: Known for its durability and ease of installation, this model keeps snow from building up on your solar array, allowing it to slide off safely in smaller amounts.


solar panel snow rake

Letting Snow Melt Naturally

Sometimes, you don’t need to worry about clearing snow off your solar panels—it can take care of itself. Since most solar panels are installed at an angle, snow often slides off naturally as it melts. 


When the sun shines on your panels, they generate a small amount of heat, which helps speed up the melting process, especially with light, powdery snow that doesn’t stick much.


However, this depends on the weather. It might take longer to melt if temperatures are consistently freezing or the snow is wet and heavy. Ice can also form, making it harder for the snow to slide off, which can be frustrating.


If your panels get plenty of sunlight and your area only sees light or occasional snow, letting it melt naturally is usually the easiest option. But if you’re dealing with frequent heavy snow or long periods of freezing weather, you might need to step in to keep your system running efficiently. Adding solar panel snow guards or clearing heavy snow when necessary can make sure your panels stay productive all winter.


Safety Tips for Solar Panel Snow Removal

When deciding how to clean snow off solar panels, safety should always come first. Snow and ice make rooftops slippery, increasing the risk of accidents during solar panel snow removal. Here are some key safety tips to protect yourself while ensuring your solar system stays efficient:


1. Wear Non-Slip Boots

Snowy and icy surfaces are treacherous, especially on rooftops. Wear boots with excellent traction to prevent slips and falls. Look for boots with rubber soles and deep treads designed for winter conditions.


2. Use a Safety Harness if Climbing

If you must access your roof to remove snow from solar panels, a safety harness is essential. Secure the harness to a stable anchor point to reduce the risk of injury. However, working from the ground is the safest option whenever possible.


3. Work From the Ground

Using tools with long, extendable poles lets you clear snow from your panels while staying safely on the ground. A solar panel snow rake is lightweight and non-abrasive, making it ideal.


4. Clear Snow in Good Weather

Avoid working in high winds, heavy snowfall, or icy conditions. Choose a calm, clear day for solar panel snow removal to minimize the risk of accidents.


5. Be Aware of Falling Snow

As you remove snow, it can slide off in large, heavy chunks. Always stand to the side of the panels to avoid being struck. Also, ensure no one is standing below the area where you’re working.


6. Avoid Damaging Your Panels

Never use sharp tools, metal scrapers, or hot water to remove snow. These can crack or scratch your panels, reducing their efficiency. Stick to soft, non-metal tools designed specifically for solar panel snow removal.


solar panel snow removal

Why Solar Panel Snow Removal is Important in Some Climates

Winter snowstorms can significantly impact the performance and longevity of solar panel systems. Addressing snow accumulation can help achieve optimal energy production. Here's why.


Snow Blocks Sunlight, Reducing Solar Energy Generation

When snow covers your solar panels, it blocks sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells, preventing them from generating electricity. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), even partial shading of solar panels can reduce solar energy output by as much as 20-25%. With heavy snow accumulation, production can drop to nearly zero.


Snow on Solar Panels Can Stress Mounting Structures

Accumulated snow often melts unevenly, leading to weight imbalances across your solar panels. Over time, this can strain the mounting system, increasing the risk of damage. For regions with frequent snowstorms, installing a solar panel snow guard can help prevent excessive buildup and reduce wear and tear.


Ice Can Affect Solar Panel Longevity

When snow melts and refreezes, it can create ice on the surface of solar panels or within their frames. Ice buildup can cause microcracks in the glass or damage the mounting hardware. Prompt and safe solar panel snow removal helps prevent ice formation, preserving the longevity and efficiency of your system.


FAQs on Solar Panel Snow Removal

Get answers to some of your questions about snow and winter solar energy production.


What are the best approaches for solar panel snow removal?

Use a solar panel snow rake specifically designed for this purpose to safely clear snow without causing damage. These lightweight, non-abrasive tools are perfect for solar panel snow rake use in winter maintenance. Steer clear of sharp tools like metal rakes or heavy equipment to protect your system.


Do solar panels work in snow?

Yes, solar panels can work in snow, but snow accumulation reduces energy generation. To maximize efficiency, it's helpful to remove snow from solar panels. Snow guards can help prevent heavy buildup, ensuring your system stays productive during snowy conditions.


Do solar panels work in winter?

Solar panels still work in winter, but their output decreases with shorter days and with snow coverage. Regular maintenance and removing snow from solar panels after heavy snowfall help maintain performance. With proper care, your solar system will continue to produce energy during cold months.


How does a solar panel snow guard work?

Solar panel snow guards are typically made from durable materials and are installed along the edges of your panels. They help distribute the weight of snow evenly, protecting your system during winter storms and enhancing its longevity.


Is it all right to let snow melt from solar panels?

Yes, in many cases. Solar panels are angled to help snow slide off as it melts. Light snow usually clears by itself quickly. But, heavy buildup in cold climates may need attention with a solar panel snow rake to maintain optimum energy production.


Maximizing Winter Energy Production

Solar panel snow removal is key to getting the most energy out of your system during snowy winters. By using safe practices like non-abrasive tools or letting the snow melt naturally, and adding preventative measures like solar panel snow guards, you can protect your panels and cut down on extra work. Make winter maintenance a regular part of caring for your system to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. 


How to clean snow off solar panels

For expert support, GreenLancer offers professional maintenance and repair services, ensuring your solar system stays in top shape no matter the season. Complete the form below if your solar system needs repair or maintenance.




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