Wall-Mount Solar Panels: What You Need To Know

Wall-mounted solar panels are a great way to add solar power to your home or office.

HOW DO YOU INSTALL WALL-MOUNTED SOLAR PANEL SYSTEMS?

Wall-mounted solar panels are typically installed in modules at a south-facing windows.

Wall-mounted solar panels are not suitable for mounting on walls that face south because of their slopes. Because wall-mounted solar panels are either vertical or steep, they absorb more energy when the sun shines at its lowest.

Wall-mounted systems should be strategically placed to maximize energy absorption. You can place your solar panel modules parallel to or away from a wall. A canopy could be installed to cover the panels that are above them. These positions will give solar panels a natural slope that is much greater than a roof or ground-mounted system.

Wall-mounted solar panels can only be installed securely and with special hardware if there is a steep slope. Wall-mounted solar panel installation is more challenging than roof-mounted and ground-mounted panels. Wall-mounted solar panels should be secured well to avoid damage or displacement.

ARE WALL-MOUNTED SOLAR PANELS EASY TO MAINTAIN?

Wall-mounted solar panels are easier to clean than roof- or ground-mounted. Rain is capable of washing away dirt and snow, and gravity keeps leaves from building up making it virtually impossible to build up debris or other problems. It is much easier to clean.

Wall-mounted systems are easier to see and require no climbing up to inspect their condition. Many solar panel system owners find it difficult and dangerous to climb onto rooftops. You can see the panels from a wall so you are able to keep track of any cleaning and maintenance tasks.

In the event of a malfunction or breakdown, technicians, usually professionals, can build scaffolding from the top of a wall-mounted structure. It’s much easier to replace or troubleshoot wall mounted panels than with roof or ground systems.

DO WALL-MOUNTED SOLAR PANEL SYSTEMS PRODUCE LESS ELECTRICITY?

Wall-mounted solar panels can produce less energy depending on where you live. In winter, wall-mounted solar panels generate more electricity than in summer. Wall-mounted solar panels are able to receive more sunlight because the sun is lower in the sky.

Because the sun shines higher into the sky, ground-mounted and roof-mounted panels produce more energy in summer. This allows more sunlight to reach panels that are slightly inclined during the day than panels that are vertically sloped.

For those who live further from the Equator, wall-mounted systems can be more beneficial. Winter is when the sun shines lower than summer. This holds true no matter how far you live from zero degrees latitude.

ARE WALL-MOUNTED SOLAR PANELS CHEAPER?

Special mounting hardware is required for vertical wall-mounted solar panel installation. Staging can sometimes be necessary due to safety concerns.

Installation costs can be higher if special hardware is needed for a project. If you need to install solar panels, you will be charged more.

This post was written by Daniel Massaad, owner and expert solar technician at Energy Solutions Direct! ESD is one of the premier Tampa solar companies! Our licensed and certified contractors are masters of their craft; with years of experience servicing the great Tampa Bay area and beyond, the choice is simple. ESD excels at offering you the best in solar value!