7
Angle of Inclination
The angle of inclination for a solar system is
the angle between the roof/ground and that of
the collector. As the angle of the sun relative
to the horizon varies between summer and
winter, the optimum angle for a solar collector
to be installed is between 20˚ and 45˚. However
all Firebird solar collector systems have been
tested to various tilt angles with permitted
angles of between 15˚ to 75˚.
Shading
Shading reduces the performance of a solar
system. When undertaking the site survey,
it is essential that consideration is given to the
proposed location of the collector and likely
obstacles. For larger systems installed in series
of parallel, it is essential that sufficient distance
is allowed between the collectors.
Wind Loads
The collectors and fixing bracket systems are
designed to cover all Irish and the UK wind
zones. However in high wind load areas, e.g.
at excessive heights or very exposed areas,
additional roof fixing brackets may be required.
To minimise the effect of wind load on the
collectors, it is recommended that collectors
are not installed within 0.5m of the roof edge,
ridge, eaves or projections such as parapets,
chimneys or dormer windows.
Please contact Firebird’s technical office if you
require further advice on determining wind
loading.
Summer
Winter
Winter
Summer
Chart Extracted from
BS6399: Part 2: 1997
Wind speed chart for Ireland and UK
(mean wind speed in m/s)
SOLAR ENERGY EXPLAINED
