If you have solar panels and winters get snowy, a snow rake is an indispensable tool in your garage.When choosing a rake for solar panels, you should pay attention not only to their type and features, but also to the quality of materials from which the product is made.
Looking for a rake for solar panels? We can help you choose the right snow rake for solar panels. We will tell you about the features and tips on the proper use of rakes for solar panels. Furthermore, we have also collected the best rakes for solar panels and rated them based on customer feedback.
If you need to choose portable solar panels, read this article.
Best snow rakes for solar panels
When it comes to snow removal, having the right tools can make all the difference. Five popular roof snow removal rake options are the EVERSPROUT Extendable Roof Rake for Snow Removal, Avalanche Rake Snow Multi Roof, Extreme Max Roof Snow Rake, True Temper Roof Rake for Snow and Ohuhu Telescoping Snow Roof Rake. In this comparison chart, we’ll take an in-depth look at these products to help you make an informed decision.
| Feature | EVERSPROUT Extendable Roof Rake for Snow Removal | Avalanche Rake Snow Multi Roof | Extreme Max Roof Snow Rake | True Temper Roof Rake for Snow | Ohuhu Telescoping Snow Roof Rake |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rake Head Material | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Rake Head Size | 25″ wide | 24″ wide | 24″ wide | 24″ wide | 17″ wide |
| Handle Material | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Handle Length | Extendable up to 16 feet | Extendable up to 24 feet | Extendable up to 17 feet | Extendable up to 17 feet | Extendable up to 20 feet |
| Weight | 4.5 pounds | 5.5 pounds | 5.6 pounds | 5.2 pounds | 5 pounds |
| Additional Features | Twist Locking Mechanism | Twist Locking Mechanism | Twist Locking Mechanism | Twist Locking Mechanism | Adjustable Angle Head |
The EVERSPROUT retractable roof snow rake features lightweight aluminum construction and a retractable handle that can be up to 16 feet long. The rake head is 25 inches wide and made of aluminum, making it a sturdy and effective tool for shoveling snow from roofs.
A valance Rake Snow Multi Roof also has a lightweight aluminum construction and a locking mechanism with a twist lock for easy assembly. It has a 24-inch wide rake and an extendable handle that can reach up to 24 feet.
The Extreme Max Roof Snow Rake is another aluminum option with a 24-inch wide rake and a retractable handle that can reach up to 17 feet. The True Temper roof snow rake also has a 24-inch wide aluminum head and a retractable handle that can reach up to 17 feet.
The Ohuhu Telescopic Roof Snow Rake is a more compact version with a 17-inch-wide aluminum rake head and a retractable handle that can reach up to 20 feet. It also has an adjustable head angle, making it easy to switch between pushing and pulling snow.
When choosing between these five options, consider the size and slope of your roof, as well as your personal preferences for weight, handle length and additional features. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific snow removal needs and requirements.
Best Snow Rake with Soft Foam Pad
Avalanche Rake Snow Multi Roof
Features:
- Easy snap-together assembly.
- Lightweight 16 ft fiberglass handle in four sections.
- Snap coupler system for easy handle storage.
EVERSPROUT Extendable Roof Rake for Snow Removal
Features:
- Exclusive s-shape design for push/pull snow removal action.
- It extends up to 18 feet long, when standing reach up to 24 feet high.
Best for Low Pitched Roofs
Extreme Max Roof Snow Rake
Features:
- Angled blade offers more use in less space and is effective on low-pitched roofs and two-story houses.
- Easy snap-button handle assembly and disassembly
Best Telescoping Snow Roof Rake
True Temper Roof Rake for Snow
Features:
- Blade width 24 in, blade height 6 1/2 in, handle length 17 ft.
- Handle type Telescoping, handle material aluminum
Best Rake for Snow with Large Poly Blade
Ohuhu Telescoping Snow Roof Rake
Features:
- Twist-n-Lock telescoping pole that easily adjusts to a whopping 21 feet for even greater overhead reach.
- Large Poly Blade: measuring 6*25 inches.
Relate posts:
What is a rake for solar panels?
They are soft, rubberized rakes attached to a long telescoping pole that helps you easily and safely reach your roof panels from the ground. The soft head allows you to quickly brush snow off the solar panels without fear of scratching or damaging the surface.
Please note that snow rakes are good if your solar panels are easy to reach from the ground. If you have a very high roof or your solar panels are installed in hard-to-reach places, a snow rake won’t do you much good. If this is your case, you may need to call in the professionals.
In a nutshell
- A snow rake is a useful tool for clearing snow from solar panels quickly and safely.
- Snow rakes are ideal for removing snow from solar panels, roofs, windows, RVs, trailers, semi-trailers, etc.
How to choose the Best Snow Rake for Solar Panels?
What types of Snow Rake for Solar Panels are Available and Which One is Right for You?
While choosing a snow rake for solar panels, you will find the following option: the blade is made of polypropylene, and the handle is made of fiberglass or aluminum. The only differences may be in the width of the blade and the length of the telescopic handle.
How to choose Rake for Solar Panels?
Solar panels have become a popular choice for powering homes and businesses, but in regions with heavy snowfall, it’s important to have the right tools to remove snow buildup. A snow rake for solar panels can help prevent damage to solar panels and ensure optimal performance. In this article, we’ll look at some key factors to consider when choosing the best snow rake for your solar panels.
- Rake head material: The material from which the rake head is made is an important factor. Look for rakes made of a lightweight and durable material, such as aluminum, that will withstand the weight of the snow and prevent damage to your solar panels.
- Rake tip size: The size of the rake tip is another factor to consider. A smaller rake may be more maneuverable, but it may require more passes to clear the same amount of snow. A larger rake may cover a larger area at one time, but may be heavier and more difficult to maneuver.
- Handle Material: The handle material is another important consideration. Look for a handle made of a lightweight and durable material, such as aluminum or fiberglass, that provides the necessary strength without the extra weight.
- Handle length: The length of the handle is also crucial because it determines how far you can reach with the rake. Look for a snow rake with an adjustable or extendable handle to ensure you can reach all areas of the solar panels.
- Weight: The weight of the snow rake is another factor. Lighter rakes may be easier to use, but may not be as sturdy. Heavier rakes may be more durable, but they will also be harder to maneuver for long periods of time.
- Blade Design: Pay attention to the blade design of your snow rake. A flat blade can be effective at clearing snow, but it can also damage solar panels. Look for a rake with a curved or sloped blade so the snow can be removed without damage.
- Additional features: Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Locking swivel mechanisms can make assembly and disassembly easier, and a tilt-adjustable head will allow you to switch between pushing and pulling snow.
With these factors in mind when choosing a solar snow rake, you can be sure you’ve chosen the best tool for your specific needs. It is important to choose a rake that is lightweight, durable, and designed to prevent damage to the solar panels. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on the size and slope of your solar panels, as well as your personal preferences for weight, handle length, and additional features.
Snow Rakes for Solar Panels – Buying Criteria
Next, we’ll show you what aspects you can use to choose between the many possible snow rakes for solar panels.
Criteria you can use to compare different snow rakes for solar panels include:
- Material.
- Width.
- Handle.
In the following paragraphs, we will explain what the individual criteria are.
More info: Rake: what are there, what are they made of, and how to choose?
Material
The snow rake blade is made of polypropylene and the handle is made of fiberglass or aluminum. This type of rake has a telescopic handle that extends in one motion.
Width
Snow rakes for solar panels vary in width from 16″ to 25″ for removing snow, wet leaves, and other debris from the roof.
The wider the blade of the snow rake, the greater the angle of snow capture when clearing solar panels.
When choosing a snow rake, you should pay attention not only to the width of the blade but also to the length of the handle.
Handle
The main thing to consider when choosing a rake handle is its length. This is usually between 16 ft and 24 ft .
The longer the handle, the farther the rake will reach the snow or leaves. Such rakes can be effective on low roofs and two-story houses.
Best Brands of Snow Rake for Solar Panels:
- Extreme Max;
- Ohuhu.
How much does a snow rake for solar panels cost?
The cost of a solar snow rake can vary depending on the specific brand, model, and seller. Typically, the price of a basic solar snow rake ranges from $20 to $50, while more powerful options can cost from $50 to $150 or more. Some of the more affordable options include the Garelick 89421 aluminum rooftop snow rake and the Snow Joe RJ204M telescopic snow rake.
More expensive options may include additional features, such as adjustable angle heads or retractable handles, and may be made from higher-quality materials. When shopping for a solar snow rake, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Snow Rake for Solar Panels Price:
Snow rakes for solar panels under $250:
- Avalanche Rake Snow Multi Roof.
Snow rakes for solar panels under $100:
- EVERSPROUT Extendable Roof Rake for Snow Removal;
- True Temper Roof Rake for Snow.
Snow rakes for solar panels under $50:
- Extreme Max Roof Snow Rake;
- Ohuhu Telescoping Snow Roof Rake.
FAQ
Can you brush snow off solar panels?
For ground or pole-mounted solar PV panels or most commercial solar applications, you’re on the ground or a flat surface, so it is safer to remove snow with a soft brush.
Can snow damage solar panels?
Snow will not damage properly installed and maintained solar panels. But you’re bound to run into a couple of problems if snow covers the panels. You’ll likely be left in the dark because they won’t produce any power in that state (or they produce negligible electricity). You may have reason to be more concerned if water seeps into any small holes/weak spots, because it can interfere with the operation of the equipment itself.
How long do solar panels last?
But the solar panels generating that power don’t last forever. The industry standard life span is about 25 to 30 years.
Solar Panel Snow Rake – Video
Sources
Sources used to write this article about choosing a roof rake:
- How to Choose a Roof Snow Rake: This Old House article talks about different types of roof snow rakes.
- The Best Roof Rakes for Clearing Snow: This article by Bob Vila lists the best roof rakes on the market, along with tips on choosing the right rakes.
- Roof Rakes for Snow Removal: In this article, Acme Tools offers a guide to choosing the right roof rakes, including factors such as blade design, handle length and weight.
- A Guide to Buying a Roof Rake for Snow Removal: This Midwest Rake guide offers details on choosing the right snow roof rakes, including factors such as blade material, handle length, and additional features.
- Choosing a Roof Rake: This Family Handyman article provides an overview of the different types of roof rakes, as well as tips for choosing the right one for your needs.
Referring to these and other reputable sources will give you a better understanding of the features and factors to consider when choosing the best roof rake for your needs.
