Hello World! Welcome Friends! Solar power is a great way to reduce your electricity bill and help save the environment. However, a lot of paperwork involves getting the right system for your home.
Get familiar with the basics of solar installation and how it can transform your energy usage. Learn how you can harness the power of the sun and make a significant impact on your energy consumption while reducing your carbon footprint.
The first step is the site survey. A representative from the solar company will visit your home to examine the roof, attic, and electrical panel. They will also provide expert recommendations and discuss financing options and tax incentives.
Installation of the Mounting System
The first step in the solar panel installation process is to set up the mounting system. This will support the base of your solar panels and ensure that they are tilted at an angle of 18 to 36 degrees for maximum exposure to sunlight. This part of the process can take a day or two, depending on the size and complexity of your roof.
A solar installer will then install the electric wiring. They will ensure all connections are tightened and secured and meet high standards. They will also connect your new meter (if applicable). It is important to note that the electrician will need to shut off the power to your house during this part of the installation process.
You can also choose to have your solar panels ground mounted. This option allows you to use various solar incentives like the federal ITC, rebates, and other local programs. There are several options for ground mounting, including solar PV trackers that follow the sun for optimum energy production and ballasted mounts that don’t require drilling into the ground.
With a foundation mount, excavation is needed to put vertical pipes or mechanical tubing surrounded by a concrete foundation. In the case of a ballast mount, a pre-cast concrete block is anchored into the ground.
Installation of the Battery
If you’re getting a grid-tied solar panel system, the last step is to install the battery. This is only necessary if your home is net-metered, and it allows you to send excess energy back to the electricity grid. It also means that the electric grid will supply electricity during nighttime or when your panels aren’t producing power.
Before beginning this part of the solar installation, it’s important to wear recommended safety gear (eye protection, gloves, closed-toe boots) and shut off your main breaker panel. Then, remove the existing breaker, clean the box with a solvent, and reinstall a new, properly-sized breaker. It’s a good idea to write down where each wire is headed and check terminals or busbars for voltage with a voltmeter.
Most solar systems use micro-inverters and power optimizers, requiring additional wiring to make the system functional. It’s essential to plan your electrical run and use wire clips to secure factory wire leads so they don’t interfere with access to the solar panel array. It’s also a good idea to keep any documentation with the units, such as stickers or QR codes, and make an array map to tell which unit controls which panel. It’s also a good idea for the installer to place batteries on a charger immediately because they’ll fail if they sit for an extended period without charging.
Installation of the Panels
Once the solar panel installation team has established a suitable place to mount your system, they will begin installing the panels. This step usually takes a day or two. They will need to remove any obstructions that obstruct sunlight from reaching your roof and may set up scaffolding to make the work easier for them. This is also the time to repair or upgrade the roof as needed.
At this point, the installer will turn off your house’s electricity supply while they install the electric wiring that will connect the solar panels to your home. They will also install the solar inverter and, if your system is grid-tied, a meter that tracks how much electricity your panels produce and use.
The meter will also connect to the grid so that you can sell excess energy back to your local utility company. This will require a final inspection from the town and your utility company. Once this process is completed, the system will be turned on, and you’ll start to generate your power!
It’s essential to keep in mind that solar is a long-term investment. That’s why it’s so crucial to understand what steps you need to take to qualify for state and federal tax credits and financing options. If you’re serious about going solar, it is best to research and speak with a qualified professional.
Installation of the Inverter
Depending on your solar panel installation company, this step may be taken care of for you. If it still needs to be, take the time to fill out any paperwork regarding state and federal tax credits and rebates. You will also want to learn about your financing options for solar leasing or loan packages.
Your installer will now begin to order the equipment for your solar power system. This usually happens before you sign the contract that details your total costs for the system.
Once the equipment has arrived, your installer will schedule a day to install it. Removing any decorations or outdoor furniture before they come to your home is a good idea so the crew can access your roof. They will also need much space to maneuver the equipment around your house.
After installing the equipment, the solar panels will be attached using screws and bolts. Then, your installer will begin laying out and installing the electrical wiring that will connect the solar energy system to your home’s power system. This can be a lengthy process if there is a lot of electrical work involved in your solar panel installation.
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Toodles,
Discover the power of the sun with leading solar companies in Australia. Embrace clean, sustainable energy solutions for your home or business. Go solar, go green!