Snow Rake Is Gentle On Solar Panels

Snow Rake Is Gentle On Solar Panels Jim Ruen, La Crescent, Minn.: “I highly recommend snow rakes with a Snow Pro head if you have solar panels. The polyethylene foam face safely removes snow without scratching. The Snow Pro head is available on a wide range of poles. We bought ours from RoofRake.com (www.roofrake.com; ph 248-802-2455). “Having a snow rake just makes sense. We installed enough solar panels to generate the electricity we use in a year. With Minnesota’s NetZero pricing, our co-op sends us a check when we produce more than we use. However, that investment doesn’t pay off if sunlight doesn’t hit the panels. “Our snow rake is a 22-ft. aluminum pole with internal locks for adjustable length and a nylon tip. It’s lightweight and easy to control, even at its maximum length. “We have a traditional snow rake we use to prevent ice dams and remove deep snow buildup from roof edges. However, the rake’s metal face isn’t designed for use on solar panels.  “According to the company, the snow rakes are also recommended for use on shingles, awnings and vehicles. They’re certainly gentle enough for all of the above. “One good indicator that a product works is that in early February, most models with a Snow Pro head were sold out. RoofRake sells snow rakes from three different companies. They also offer an alternative to the Snow Pro, the Roof Brum. It retails for $36.95 for the head only, compared with $31.95 for the Snow Pro, head only.”

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