Rooftop solar arrays may be the most popular type of residential solar systems, however, rooftop solar panels can have their limitations. Understanding the problems associated with rooftop solar systems and how ground mount solar panels are different can help you decide whether or not ground mount solar panels are right for you.

Easy Maintenance

Ground-mounted solar panels are easier to access than rooftop mounted solar panels. When it’s time to perform routine maintenance on your ground-mounted solar panels, contractors and repair people need only walk up to the panels and begin to work. This ease of access can result in lower overall maintenance costs, because contractors can do their work more quickly.

In addition, roof maintenance needs are affected by the solar panels. Often, repairs and inspections of the roof cannot be conducted unless the solar panels are removed. If a roof needs to be replaced, the solar panels must be taken off and stored while work is occurring. When the work is done, the solar panels are put back in their place. This can add to the overall costs of roof maintenance. By contrast, ground-mounted solar panels have none of these problems.

Reduced Chances of Property Damage

Rooftop solar panels put extra holes in the roof. Although solar panels may be installed carefully, the potential for damaging the roof is always greater when extra holes are drilled into the structure of the roof. This may require additional roof repairs or inspections to ensure your home is still in good condition. Ground-mounted solar panels are only mounted in the ground and are not mounted on the home. Therefore, the chances that ground-mounted solar panels will do damage to property is much lower.

Easy Angling

The pitch of the roof influences the angle of rooftop solar panels. If the pitch of the roof is not ideal for the angling of the solar panels, this can reduce the efficiency of the system. Ground mounted systems can be angled in whatever way is right for capturing energy from the sun.

More Airflow

Airflow is important for cooling down solar systems. When solar systems become too hot, they work less efficiently and in an age where energy efficient upgrades are very popular, efficiency is key. Since rooftop systems get less air flow and rooftops tend to be very hot through much of the year, rooftop panels are naturally less efficient than ground mounted systems.

Place Ground-Mounted Almost Anywhere On the Property

Ground-mounted solar panels can be placed almost anywhere on the property, which gives solar panel installation professionals their choice of locations for the panels. Ground mount systems can easily be placed in the sunniest location possible.

By contrast, rooftop solar panels are very limited in the location where they can be placed. Often overhanging trees and nearby structures cast part of the roof in shade for portions of the day. This shade reduces the overall efficiency of the system. Unfortunately, homeowners who plan to install solar panels on their rooftop have little choice but to accept these inefficiencies.

Making Your Decision

Ground-mounted solar panels are not for everyone. Solar panels take up space in the yard, and can get in the way of everyday activities. Many homeowners who put their solar panels on their roof do so because they want to preserve their grass and do not wish to have their solar panels take up yard space.

However, if space is not a consideration on your Ham Lake property, ground mounted solar panels have far more benefits than downsides. If you’re having a hard time deciding which is best for your home, talk to your solar panel installation contractor. He or she can help you decide which type of solar panels are best for your needs.