Solar Power Blog
How To Remove Snow From Solar Panels on a Roof
Winter is coming, and that means snow will soon be on the ground.
If you live in an area where there is a lot of snow, this can be quite a big problem, as solar panels and snow don’t get along too well.
But how do you remove snow from solar panels on a roof?
If you don't know how to get rid of the snow, your solar panels may not work properly or at all.
Don't worry! We are here to help you.
In this article, we will provide you with five tips that will help you to clear away the pesky white stuff from your solar panels, so you can power up your home with clean energy again!
1. Use Foam Headed Snow Broom
One great way to remove the snow from your solar panels is by using a foam headed broom.
This type of brush has long fibers that are shaped into balls, making them perfect for getting rid of slippery ice or heavy accumulations.
While it may take some elbow grease on your part, this tool will do the trick!
2. Spray Some Water
Another tip on how to remove snow from solar panels on a roof is by using water.
You may have heard of the method where you pour hot or boiling water over your rooftop, but this technique requires special attention and shouldn't be attempted when it's freezing out.
However, there are other ways to melt away stubborn ice without any heat, which is by using a water spray or a garden hose.
Simply spray or hose down your roof until the ice is gone!
An added bonus of this method is that you won't need any special equipment.
Just make sure to be careful not to damage your panels with the water, and also avoid spraying any gutter guards or screens that are present on your roof.
3. Shovel It
The third tip to remove snow from solar panels is by using a plastic shovel.
Plastic shovels are ideal for removing snow from solar panels and can be easily found at your local hardware store.
Most plastic shovels have a malleable blade that can be bent into different angles depending on how you want to use it, which makes them great for getting snow from between solar panels.
Just keep in mind that many plastic shovels aren't built for heavy duty work, so it's important to get rid of ice and protect your roof by using an appropriate tool that can do the job.
It's important to mention that you should never use a metal shovel or use any metal poles to clean the solar panels or you might get electrocuted.
4. Blow The Snow Off
Another way to remove snow from solar panels on a roof technique you can try is by using a leaf blower.
If you have to clear away the white stuff from your rooftop and don't want to clean it with any equipment, just grab your trusty electric or gas-powered leaf blower.
The blowing action will cause some of the snow to blow away, leaving you with snowless panels.
Just keep in mind that this method is not 100% effective because some of it can stay stuck onto the panels if there's too much buildup.
5. Install A Roof Heating Device
If removing snow from solar panels is a problem you face every winter, then it's recommended to purchase a roof heating device.
Not only will this technology protect your investment in solar energy by minimizing ice with each storm that rolls through town, but most models are simple and easy to install under your shingles.
Just make sure installing a heating device is covered by your warranty before you go through with this installation since not all companies support roof heating products.
The best part about these devices?
They can easily be disconnected when there's no more snow on the panels, which means removing snow from solar panels is never an issue you'll have to deal with again.
