Solar panel installation is one of the smartest moves you can make as a homeowner. But if you don’t hire the right company to do the installation, you could put yourself at risk and not get the return on investment that you were hoping for.

Hiring the right solar installation company is critical.

Here is our complete solar installation guide so you can get the best bang for your buck and a return on investment that you will be thrilled with. Read on!

Assessing Your Home for Solar

You’ll need to have a good understanding of the roof structure and space needed to install the solar panels. The location of the solar panels should receive consistent amounts of sunlight throughout the day.

It is also important to assess if there is enough roof space for the number of solar panels needed. The roof should be structurally sound and in good condition.

If not, the solar panels could become unstable due to weather conditions or improper installation. During the assessment, the homeowner should look to identify a shade-free roof area. 

Deciding What Type of Solar System

Homeowners should begin by determining their energy needs and their budget.

Passive systems, such as solar heating, use the sun’s energy to heat air or water but do not use batteries or need an inverter. Thermal systems employ concentrating technology to convert solar energy into heat. It is then used to heat water for domestic or other hot water uses.

Photovoltaic systems convert the sun’s energy into electricity. These systems are made up of the following: 

  • batteries
  • inverters
  • controllers to regulate current
  • charge regulators
  • and mountings

Homeowners should talk to an expert involved in the sales, design, and installation of solar systems to ensure that they get a system that can suit their specific needs. Proper sizing of the system is necessary in order to guarantee the longest savings and service life. 

Choosing a Solar Installer

When selecting a solar installer, research their credentials and customer reviews thoroughly. Make sure that their installers are certified and experienced and that the contractor is licensed and insured. It is also important to consider the following:

  • warranties they offer
  • their solar panel installation process
  • whether they offer to finance

Solar projects require knowledge, skill, and experience. So it is essential to hire a highly qualified installer. 

Preparing Your Home for Solar Installation

Ensure the space you’ve picked is clear of debris, has adequate room to accommodate your solar panels, and won’t be blocked by shade from trees or nearby structures. Next, contact your local jurisdiction and utility provider to get approval for your project. Most times, you will need to have an installer fill out an application for approval.

Once approval has been given, you can proceed with the installation. Reach out to qualified installers and receive multiple quotes in order to get the best deal. Make sure all permits required are filed prior to installation. Once the installation begins, make sure to inspect the work of the installers to make sure that it is done properly and according to the code. 

Obtaining Permits and Inspections for Your Solar System

Obtaining the necessary permits and undergoing inspections can be daunting. It’s important to make sure all permits are acquired before the solar energy installation process begins. This should include any permits necessary from the county, state, or electrical power company.

It’s also important to factor in the specific rules and restrictions that may be applicable to your location, such as whether solar energy systems are allowed to be installed on certain types of buildings. If you are located in Illinois, you can find out here how to get started on your solar panel installation!

Once the permits are acquired, arrange to have a professional inspection done to ensure that the solar installation is done correctly. 

A Step-By-Step Guide to Setting up a Solar Power Unit

A solar installation guide for homeowners is an invaluable resource when the time comes to set up your own solar power unit. Here’s a step-by-step roadmap to the entire solar power installation process:

Gather Solar Power Components

This includes solar panels, charge controllers, power inverters, batteries, and monitoring systems. Different types of solar racks, cabling, and mounting materials must be purchased. 

Calculate Your Power Load

Power load is the amount of energy you use in an hour. This is typically measured in kilowatt-hours. To calculate power load, a homeowner should look at the amount of energy their home uses on a regular basis.

Consider the number of electrical appliances in the home, the size of the home, and other power-demanding uses. 

Select and Charge the Battery

Selecting and charging a battery for a solar installation is a critical component of the installation process and should not be taken lightly. When selecting a battery, homeowners should assess the size, power output, and wattage, as well as budget.

Once the right battery is chosen, it needs to be charged prior to installation, which involves connecting it to an external charger, a solar charge controller, and the main circuit. 

Set up the Inverter

Different inverters power different systems and components, so careful consideration should be taken when making a selection.

The inverter can generally be mounted to a flat outside wall, with caution taken to ensure it will remain cool and exposed to sunlight. The homeowner must ensure all appropriate cables and connections are securely fastened.

Connect the Solar Panels to the Battery

When it comes to connecting the solar panels to the battery, the exact sequence and procedures for wiring the connections may vary.

It is important to follow the manufacturer’s installation guide for the specific products purchased. It is important to ensure that all electrical components are wired correctly and safely before switching on the solar power source. 

Setup Stands for Inverter and Battery

Setup stands for inverter and battery, and these two components are the core of a solar energy system.

Inverters convert direct current (DC) electricity to alternating current (AC), which is what powers the majority of home appliances. Understanding the setup of these components is essential for any successful solar installation.

Plan Your Solar Installation Today

Installing solar panels for your home is not only good for the environment but also a great way to save on energy costs. With this solar installation guide, you now have the knowledge to make the switch.

Go ahead and start planning your solar installation today.

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