Calculate Optimal Angle For Solar Panels

Solar panel angle by zip code.

Calculate optimal angle for solar panels.

The next question is at what angle from horizontal should the panels be tilted. The angle of your solar array is an important factor in maximizing your energy production. This solar angle calculator tells you the optimum angle to get the best out of your system. As a general rule of thumb keep in mind that the panels need to be more vertical during winter to face the lower sun directly and more tilted towards the ground during summer to face the higher sun.

For instance if your latitude is 34 the optimum tilt angle for your solar panels during winter will be 34 15 49. The summer optimum tilt angle on the other hand will be 34 15 19. This means that for best results the roof pitch of your property should ideally be equal to the latitude angle with the panels mounted at the same angle as the roof. Most solar arrays are installed at a tilt.

It turns out that you can do better than this about 4 better. Depending on where you live the best angle at which you should install solar panels will change. This is because it s based on the average position of the sun over your property. Books and articles on solar energy often give the advice that the tilt should be equal to your latitude plus 15 degrees in winter or minus 15 degrees in summer.

The optimum tilt angle is calculated by adding 15 degrees to your latitude during winter and subtracting 15 degrees from your latitude during summer. Calculating the ideal angle for your solar panels is not that difficult. To get the best out of your photovoltaic panels you need to angle them towards the sun.