Vertical Or Horizontal, What’s The Correct Way To Install Solar Panels On Your Roof?

Should you decide to go ahead and put in solar panels, there are a few important things to think about. Yet, the need for solar panels is growing rapidly throughout the nation because it’s a sustainable and affordable method of utilizing solar energy.
Finding the correct tilt or orientation is a key issue during the installation of solar panels. The two most suitable orientations are vertical and horizontal. However, if you’re not confident in choosing the right direction, this piece will cover the basics to guide you toward your solar objectives.

What is Vertical Solar Panel Installation?

Installing solar panels at a vertical angle involves placing them upright on a roof or various other buildings.

This method is sometimes referred to as portrait positioning, where the panels are laid flat next to the ground, usually at right angles to the roof. Nonetheless, this setup is not very common in India and is more practical in areas distant from the equator or areas that have extended periods of cold.

Pros:

• Better Winter Performance- It captures more sunlight during winter and ensures better energy production even in low sunlight. 
• Space Efficiency- It’s ideal for irregular roofs or roofs with limited space. It maintains good solar system efficiency even in small spaces. 
• Unique Design Possibilities- With the installation of vertical solar panels, you can enhance the visuals and aesthetics of your home. It comes in modern designs, giving a peachy look to your space. 

Cons:

• Less Sunlight Exposure- Compared to horizontal solar panels, vertical orientation receives less sunlight even in the middle of the day.
• Complex Installation- Installing vertical solar panels is a toilsome process as it requires skilled labour and custom racking systems. 
• Aesthetic Considerations- Usually, people prefer a traditional solar power system for home as they find the vertically designed panels incongruity with their roof. 

People having flat roofs can opt for horizontal solar panel installation. It refers to the placement of solar panels on a surface, such as a rooftop or ground-mounted structure, where the panels are oriented flat and parallel to the ground. It’s the traditional method of installing a solar panel system that directly absorbs the sunlight. 

Pros:

• Maximizes Solar Exposure- This type of orientation is highly efficient in converting sunlight into electricity. It absorbs an abundant amount of sunlight throughout the day. 
• Simple Installation- Installing horizontal solar panels is easy and cost-effective as it requires railings and mountings to fit the panel on your roof. 
• Aesthetically Discreet- These panels sit flush with the roof, blending seamlessly with your home’s design. They are a visually unobtrusive option, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your property.

Cons:

• Less Energy in Winter- During the winter months, when the sun is lower in the sky, horizontal solar panels may receive less sunlight exposure. This can result in a reduction in energy production in cold climates.
• Reduced Space Efficiency- If you have a limited space roof, horizontal solar panels are not ideal for you. It requires more space to produce efficient residential solar power.

Often, solar panels are placed flat to receive the most sunlight directly from the sun. But in some cases, solar energy systems for homes can be set up facing upwards for specific benefits.

• Setting up panels this way requires fewer supports since they’re taller than they are wide, leading to lower costs. Placing them vertically also makes the most of the space on a roof, making it ideal for a lot of setups. It’s great for homes with roofs that are limited in space, as it needs to produce enough solar energy to meet residential needs.
• A lot of solar setup companies often choose this vertical setup for its practicality and efficient use of materials. This approach gives a distinctive appearance to the building’s design, increasing its overall value.
• Homeowners in colder areas often opt for this setup because it performs exceptionally well in cooler temperatures, fulfilling the needs for home solar energy systems.

Selecting solar panels that are mounted horizontally can reduce your maintenance expenses. If your budget is tight, it’s best to go with solar panels that are set at a horizontal angle. There are numerous advantages to choosing a horizontal angle, including the following reasons.

• If your roof is either flat or inclined in such a way that vertically positioned panels would stand out significantly at their 10-40-degree angle, installing your solar panels horizontally is the optimal option.
• This angle matches the local style in places where horizontal panels are commonplace, helping to achieve visual unity.
• Choosing a horizontal direction is a smart move if your roof gets a lot of sunlight, ensuring an even distribution of sunlight all day long, which leads to increased production of energy.
• The costs involved in setting up horizontal solar panels are relatively low since there’s no need for specialized workers, and they need only a few parts to capture solar energy.

1. Budget and Financing

Determine your budget for the solar project and explore financing options like loans, leases, or incentives to understand what installation method aligns with your financial resources. However, vertical solar panel installations are expensive compared to horizontal ones.

2. Panel Type and Efficiency

Choose the right panel technology (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film) and consider panel efficiency to maximize energy output and match your installation method. Horizontal solar panels are more efficient than vertical solar panels as they imbibe solar energy throughout the day. 

3. Orientation and Tilt

Evaluating your location’s solar potential is crucial, considering factors like latitude, shading, and roof orientation. Horizontal or vertical installation depends on optimizing sunlight exposure. If you live in a cold or snowy region, choose vertical solar panels. 

4. Regulatory Compliance

Compliance with the necessary guidelines is essential to make a trouble-free solar panel installation. So, know about the local regulations, permits, and utility requirements to ensure your chosen installation method complies with legal standards. 

5. Consult Solar Professionals

With the support of a professional solar panel provider, you can enjoy long-term solar system efficiency. With an experienced solar installer or consultant, you can assess the best installation method and handle the technical aspects of the project.

6. Long-Term Goals

Installing residential solar power systems helps in reducing electricity bills, environmental impact, or grid independence. With solar panels, you can set long-term solar goals with a sustainable future.

Installing solar panel systems offers advantages to both homeowners and companies. It’s crucial to recognize that both slanted and flat solar panels are great options for reducing your energy expenses and advancing towards a more eco-friendly future.
Whether you’re interested in slanted or flat solar panel installations, Tarpon solar can provide assistance. As a leading company in India for the installation of high-quality solar panels, they can help you achieve a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
Reach out to them today.