SOLAR
How to Set Solar Panel Tilt
Preliminary method for finding the best tilt angle for fixed solar panels by latitude and season.
The tilt of a fixed panel sets how much sun it catches through the year. A common rule of thumb ties the best tilt to your latitude, with seasonal adjustments.
THE SHORT ANSWER
How do you set solar panel tilt?
Start at your latitude for a year-round tilt, add 15° for winter and subtract 15° for summer. At latitude 34°, the annual tilt is about 34°, with 49° in winter and 19° in summer.
Find your latitude
The panel tilt tracks your latitude. Higher latitudes need steeper tilts to catch the lower winter sun.
Pick the season to optimize
A year-round tilt equals about your latitude. Winter production improves by adding about 15°, summer by subtracting about 15°.
- Annual
- Winter
- Summer
- Roof pitch
Factor in the roof pitch
If the panels mount flush, the roof pitch sets the tilt. A steep roof already provides some of the angle.
This is a preliminary guide
Use the Solar Panel Tilt Calculator for planning, but a real design needs professional sizing. These figures are guidance only.