The disadvantages of snow on solar panels
Snow on solar panels blocks sunlight. As a result, output can temporarily decrease or even almost disappear while the panels remain covered. The extent of the effect depends on the thickness of the snow layer, the angle of the panels, the temperature and the amount of daylight.
On sloping solar panels, snow sometimes slides down by itself. On a flat roof, snow often remains in place for longer, especially when the panels are installed at a shallower angle or when the snow freezes. In that situation, many people look for a safe way to remove snow from solar panels.
Work carefully. Do not use a hard shovel, metal squeegee or other aggressive method on the glass of solar panels, as this increases the risk of scratches or damage. Want to maintain your panels properly outside winter too? Read our page about cleaning solar panels.
Suitable products
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Telescopic pole 3K full carbon with Super Snow Remover
From 4 218,00 krUnit price /UnavailableIn stock -
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Telescopic pole Aluminium with Super Snow Remover
From 1 221,00 krUnit price /UnavailableIn stock -
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Telescopic pole Carbon Fiber with Super Snow Remover
From 2 775,00 krUnit price /UnavailableIn stock -
Completely clear solar panels of snow with the Super Snow Remover
The safest way to remove snow from solar panels is with soft, suitable tools and sufficient reach. The Super Snow Remover is designed to pull or push snow away without moving hard material directly across the panel.
Combined with a High-Clean telescopic pole, it allows you to clear snow from solar panels while staying on the ground. This is particularly useful for panels on a sloping roof, canopy, garage or lower building that you can comfortably reach with the correct working length.
The pole you need depends on the height of and distance to the panels. Aluminium is suitable for many standard jobs, Carbon Fiber is lighter during longer periods of work, and 3K Full Carbon is especially useful at greater lengths. Unsure which length you need? Use the telescopic pole selection guide.
How to clear snow from solar panels step by step
Clearing snow from solar panels starts with safely assessing whether removal is both necessary and responsible. Do not go onto the roof in snow, icy conditions or strong winds. Work only from stable ground and use a telescopic pole that is long enough.
- From the ground, check how much snow is lying on the solar panels.
- Check whether the panels can be reached safely without a ladder or roof work.
- Choose a telescopic pole with sufficient length and, where possible, keep the sections partially retracted for greater stability.
- Securely attach the Super Snow Remover to the telescopic pole.
- Start at the top of the panel and move calmly in the direction of the slope.
- Pull or push the snow away in strips without pressing hard on the glass.
- Leave ice or frozen snow alone if it does not come loose easily.
- Afterwards, check that snow has not been left in gutters, passageways or vulnerable areas.
Do not use hot water on cold solar panels. A sudden temperature difference can place unnecessary stress on the material. Is the snow frozen solid, or can you not reach the panels safely? Wait for a thaw or call in a professional.
Want to clear snow from your solar panels while staying on the ground? View the Super Snow Remover, compare High-Clean snow-removal products, or choose a suitable telescopic pole for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need to remove snow from solar panels?
Do you need to remove snow from solar panels?
Removing snow from solar panels is not always necessary. A thin layer of snow may disappear by itself. With a thicker layer, prolonged cold or panels on a flat roof, removal can be worthwhile if you can do it safely from the ground.
Do solar panels generate electricity when there is snow on them?
Do solar panels generate electricity when there is snow on them?
Solar panels generate less electricity when they are covered with snow because less light reaches the panels. When they are completely covered, output can temporarily fall sharply.
How can you remove snow from solar panels?
How can you remove snow from solar panels?
Remove snow from solar panels using soft, suitable tools and sufficient reach. For example, use a Super Snow Remover on a telescopic pole and work calmly from the ground.
How do you remove snow from solar panels on a flat roof?
How do you remove snow from solar panels on a flat roof?
Snow often remains on solar panels on a flat roof for longer. Remove snow only if you can work safely, and avoid walking on slippery sections of the roof. If the roof cannot be reached safely, call in a professional.
Can you use a broom or hard squeegee?
Can you use a broom or hard squeegee?
Avoid using a hard broom, metal squeegee or sharp shovel on solar panels, as these can cause scratches or damage. Choose a soft snow remover such as the Super Snow Remover, which is designed for use on solar panels.
When is it better to leave the snow in place?
When is it better to leave the snow in place?
It is better to leave snow in place if it is frozen solid, if you cannot reach the panels from the ground, or if the ground is slippery and unsafe. Safety always comes before temporary energy output.