Installing rooftop PV panels can lead to significant savings on your electric bill. However, if you reside in an area with heavy snowfall, there’s a risk of snow sliding off the panels, causing property damage. This article explores solar panel snow guards, their purpose, and why you should consider having them installed by your solar provider.
What is a Solar Panel Snow Guard?
It is a barrier placed between or on the edges of solar panels to stop small avalanches that happen with rooftop solar.
These snow guards catch sliding snow, preventing it from falling all at once. They release snow gradually or let it melt on the roof. They’re easy to install with screw-on clamps.
Solar Panel Snow Guard Options
When selecting your PV panels, you should discuss snow guard options with your provider to safely remove snow. Two main types are available: Clamp-on guards and snow fences.
1. Alpine SnowGuards
They are attached to the solar panel frame using screw-on clamps to keep them secure. Alpine SnowGuards are eco-friendly, made from recycled materials, and come in two models.
The Solar SnowMax fits both portrait and landscape solar panels, blending in to let panels collect energy. It can hold up to 50 pounds of snow per square foot, ideal for regions with moderate snowfall.
2. The Solar Snow Pad
It lets snow and ice gather, then slide off panels gradually. Solar Snow Pad stops shading on solar panels and is installed with a T-nut clamp between closely spaced panels. It’s great for big solar setups and tiered roofs.
3. ColorGuard
It employs round-point screws for a clamp that holds solar panels without penetrating them. ColorGuard by S-5 matches your roof’s color and finish perfectly, ensuring an appealing appearance that lasts for over 30 years without fading.
Also, check out the Types of Solar PV Modules Mounting Structure
4. SnowBreaker by SnoBlox
It is specially crafted to break down snow and ice into smaller fragments before it slides off the solar panel. The SnoBlox guards are positioned forward to lessen roof stress, failures, and leaks. They can be mechanically installed with clamps or using snow-safe adhesive. Each SnowBreaker guard can support up to 3,456 pounds when clamped and up to 1,379 pounds when adhered.
5. Snow Fence Snow Guards
They are meant to be attached to the roof independently from the solar panels, reducing their impact on the panels. Snow Fence Snow Guards can be easily installed after the panels are in place or on roofs that haven’t yet had solar panels installed.
Moreover, the snow fence is a widely used snow fence option. It’s placed at the edge of your roof and fastened to gather snow as it comes off the solar panels. To work effectively, it needs 18-24 inches of space between the lowest panel and the roof edge.
6. Clamp-on Snow Guards
You can install them on the edges or between your panels. Clamp-on snow guards for solar panels either release snow slowly or let it melt naturally on the panels. If you pick the type that holds snow for melting, remember that it may reduce your solar energy production in snowy months.
Cross-reference: Are these Snow Guards Necessary for you?
Solar Panel Snow Guard Price
The cost of a solar panel snow guard can vary based on your chosen style, roof size, and the number of panels. On average, it ranges from around $4 to $18, with additional charges for installation. For instance, a Minneapolis homeowner paid $10 per linear foot after setting up panels.
While mounting snow guards during panel installation increases initial costs, it prevents additional expenses from future installations and potential damage. Therefore, before finalizing your solar panel purchase, inquire about adding snow guards.
How Do I Keep Snow Off My Solar Panels?
To keep snow off your solar panels, you can try the following tips:
- Removing Snow Manually: You can clear snow from rooftop panels by using a soft brush, cloth, or telescoping pole with a brush.
- Heating Wires: You can put electric wires on your roof that warm up and melt snow or ice on the PV panels.
- Using Panel Covers: Covering your panels can prevent snow buildup. These covers can be made of different materials like plastic or glass and should be resistant to weather damage.
- Using Wind Fans: They can circulate air around your panels, helping to melt snow and prevent accumulation.
- Heating Mats: Special mats installed around panels produce heat to melt snow and keep the panels clear.
- Using Automated Roof Plows: Roof plows automatically move along your roof to clear snow from your solar panels.
- Opting for Snow Guards: Metal spikes placed around panels prevent snow from sliding off and piling up.
- Utilizing Roof Rake: A roof rake with a long telescopic handle lets you safely remove snow from panels while on the ground. Start from the top and gently pull the rake down the roof to clear the snow without causing damage.
- Trying Soft-Bristled Outdoor Broom: You can choose one with soft bristles and a telescoping handle to reach high spots. Be careful not to scratch the surface.
- Using Leaf Blower: For light, fluffy snow, a leaf blower on a low setting can be effective. Keep a safe distance and angle the blower carefully to avoid damage.
- Spraying with a Hose: On warmer days, use a garden hose to spray water on the panels. The gentle stream helps melt and remove the snow. Moreover, to prevent any damage, make sure the water isn’t too hot.
- Trying a Softball: For very light snow, gently toss a soft, lightweight ball onto the panels to create vibrations that loosen the snow.
- Trimming Tree Branches: This reduces snow buildup on panels.
- Adjusting Panel Angle: Check and adjust the angle of your PV panels to allow snow to slide off more easily.
- Installing a Pulley-Operated Tarp: A tarp system above your panels can be pulled over during snowfall to protect them.
- Considering a Heating System: Install a heating system designed for solar panels to melt snow and ensure optimal performance in winter.
Prioritize safety and consult professionals for assistance. Regular maintenance will help panels work well even in snow.
Also Read: How to Install Solar Panels on Car Roof
What Happens When Snow Gets on Solar Panels?
When snow accumulates on rooftop panels, it can have several effects on solar energy production. Let’s explore these effects one by one.
1. Snowfall and Safety: During extreme winter conditions, snow accumulation on solar panels can lead to various safety hazards. It can potentially damage pipes, pull apart gutters, and in severe cases, pose risks to pets or loved ones.
2. Blockage of Solar Panels: In regions with frequent snowfall, snow can quickly accumulate on the surface of panels. This accumulation can obstruct the panels’ ability to produce solar energy effectively. Additionally, the mass of snow on panels can increase the risk of dangerous snow slides.
3. Irregular Shedding: Unlike traditional roofing materials that naturally shed snow, solar panels’ smooth surfaces can lead to irregular shedding of snow. This can result in compacted snow sheets sliding off the panels, leading to potential hazards.
4. Avalanche Risk: Compacted snow sheets sliding off solar panels can form dangerous avalanches. The weight of snow accumulation can exceed the designed load capacity of solar panels, leading to various risks such as damage to property, landscape, and potential injuries to individuals or animals.
5. Potential Damages: Large sheets of compacted snow sliding off roofs can block doors and bend or block rain gutters and downspouts, posing further risks to property and safety.
Therefore, proper precautions, such as installing snow guards, are essential to mitigate these risks effectively.
If you live in a snowy area and want solar panels, you can consider using this guard option. Not all installers suggest them at first because they raise upfront costs and might make the payback time seem longer. But getting snow guards when you install panels can save you money and keep you safe from accidents. To access more such interesting topics, keep reading our blog posts.
Recommended: How to Remove Solar panels from Roof
