How To Install Solar Panels In 7 Easy Steps?

Solar panel installation is a process which requires much planning and attention. The solar panels need to be installed in a way that will not only save electricity but also provide you with a continuous energy supply for many years, and require almost no maintenance. They also require installation at places where it gets ample sunlight.

However, this does not mean that you will have to be an expert to install solar panels. Today, I will share information with you on how to install solar panels in 7 easy steps?

Let’s dig into it!

Step 1: Check If Your Roof Is Suitable

Finding a good location to deploy solar panels is the first stage in the installation process. Sadly, not everybody has a roof that can handle the job.

Consider the following inquiries for yourself:

Does the roof receive sufficient sunlight? Solar panels should receive lots of sunlight, especially in the middle of the day when it is the hottest. Any area that will be shaded for a long time should be avoided. For the best results, the roof should also be angled appropriately toward the South.

Is there sufficient room? The solar panels must be placed on a surface that is at least moderately sized. The typical surface area needed for home installations is between 280 and 351, though if your energy usage is particularly high, you might need more.

Can solar panels be supported on the roof? Your roof needs to be sturdy enough to support the combined weight of the installation team, the solar panels, and the racking equipment. Before putting in a solar system, make any necessary structural improvements.

How old is your roof? It is recommended to replace your roof if it needs to be replaced before switching to solar. While it is possible to take down and reinstall solar panels, doing so is time-consuming and costly.

Exists a preferable substitute? You might be able to place the panels somewhere else if your roof isn’t suitable. Put them on a carport, barn, shed, or any other structure with a suitable surface.

You might also think about a ground-mounted installation if you have the room. All of these elements will be taken into account when a solar installation company performs the initial site evaluation at your house.

Step 2: Select A Type Of Solar Panel System

 

 

What do you truly want from solar panels—aside from pure, renewable energy—financial savings or comfort and energy independence?

Before you begin your installation, select the kind of solar panel system that would best serve your objectives. If you’re unsure, a reputable solar installation firm can assist you in determining this.

Grid-Tied Systems Are The Best For Reducing Energy Costs

Are you hoping to maximize your savings and boost your return on investment (ROI)? If so, you’re not alone; homeowners most frequently choose solar energy for this reason.

You should put in a grid-tied solar power system to accomplish this. The electrical grid and net metering are used by these solar systems to handle power surpluses and shortages.

Grid solar panel installation can reduce your electricity expenses by $20,000 to $80,000 over a 25-year period, depending on your circumstances.

Best For Energy Independence And Backup Power: Solar With Storage

Are you trying to find a solar power system that can store energy and give you power when the grid goes down? Then you should incorporate a solar + storage solution, which combines your solar panels with a battery reserve.

Be mindful that solar batteries are pricey. At most, you’ll break even with a daily-use solar battery that is eligible for incentives. With installation, a single Tesla Powerwall costs around $13,000; depending on your needs, you might even need two.

Step 3: Calculate The Price Of Installation

Now that you’ve decided on the type of system you want, you can calculate installation charges!

Costs for grid-tied systems typically range from $15,000 to $25,000. Systems that combine solar energy with storage typically cost between $25,000 and $50,000. Remember to just use these numbers as a guide. The price of installing solar panels can vary based on your location, the firm you select, and the number of solar panels you require.

Solar rebates and incentives that reduce installation costs must also be taken into consideration. Considering the federal tax credit, which can help you save 30% on your purchasing costs, is the most crucial thing you can do. A $20,000 installation may only cost $14,000 thanks to the tax benefit!

Many states provide extra assistance to homes that go solar. For instance, New York offers a 25% state tax credit as well as exemptions from property and sales taxes. Don’t forget to look into any programs your local utility and government may be offering. The types of discounts and subsidies available could surprise you!

Step 4. Purchase The Equipment

We advise you to purchase your system from a business that offers full-service solar installation.

They will create a system that meets your needs, take care of the necessary paperwork and approvals, and finish the installation. They may also advise you on how to take full advantage of the discounts and incentives that are offered.

There are, of course, more options to purchase solar panels. For instance, you can decide to acquire the necessary supplies from a wholesale solar equipment supplier if you’re interested in DIY solar panel installation.

There are, of course, more options to purchase solar panels. For instance, you can decide to acquire the necessary supplies from a wholesale solar equipment supplier if you’re interested in DIY solar panel installation.

 

 

Step 5: Organize Approvals And Permits

Before beginning construction, like with any significant home improvement job, you must secure the necessary permits and approvals.

You should typically consider applying for the following positions:

• Building licence (s)
• electrical licence (s)
• authorization from your electrical provider
• Program applications for incentives
• inspection following installation

Generally speaking, you must submit the code-compliant design for your solar panel installation. Where you live and the restrictions imposed by the local government with jurisdiction will determine the specific criteria (AHJ).

All permits and approvals pertaining to the installation can be managed by your solar provider.

 

Step 6: Begin The Installation Task

Finally, you’re prepared to begin the installation procedure!

The installation process should only take one or two days if you’re working with a reputable solar firm. If there is even a slight chance of rain, it is recommended to avoid doing electrical work on rooftops as the work can only be done in clear weather.

Prepare for safety first: Risks associated with installing solar panels include working at heights, slipping on wet surfaces, handling high-voltage equipment, and moving heavy machinery. Before an installation begins, it’s crucial to have all personal safety gear and fall protection measures in place.

Install racking for solar panels: The panels must be mounted directly on the roof using racking equipment. Due to the fact that the racking is drilled directly into the roof, extreme caution must be used when installing it. If done incorrectly, it may result in electricity lines being destroyed or roof leaks.

Connect electronics at the module level: Microinverters and power optimizers are examples of module-level power electronics (MLPE) that you attach to each solar module separately (panel). In addition to being necessary for the quick shutdown of solar panels, they are also helpful for enhancing panel performance. Additionally, microinverters will change the direct current (DC) electricity coming from the solar panels into usable alternating current (AC) electricity for your home.

Attach the solar Panels: Make sure the wiring is in order before putting the solar panels to the mounting rail. A negative and positive DC cable is already linked to each solar panel; clip or zip-tie them to the panel before connecting them to the MLPE and the microinverters. The mid-clamps and end-clamps should then be inserted into the railing to secure the panels.

The system’s wiring: Solar panel wires are fed into a junction box on the roof. They will then proceed down a conduit to the external junction box from there. The main electrical panel is reached through the emergency disconnect, which is connected to the junction box in turn. Make that the emergency disconnect box and exterior junction box are accessible and weatherproof.

This is how a rooftop solar system is typically installed. You might see the procedure differently, particularly if you’re installing solar panels that are ground-mounted.

Step 7: Power On Your System

Although your solar panels are installed, they are not yet fully functional. Before you can finally switch them on, there are a few more hurdles to clear.

Although they are installed, your solar panels are not quite ready to use. Before you can switch them on, you still have a few more hurdles to clear.

Last Examination

Contact the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) in your area to schedule an inspection. An inspector will be dispatched to your location to verify that your system complies with all local laws and regulations as well as the design blueprints that were previously submitted.

Obtain Permission To Operate (PTO)

You can link your solar power system to the utility grid to import and export electricity thanks to the PTO’s utility connectivity provision.

In order to track your solar power exports, the utility provider will either install a second meter or replace your existing one with a bi-directional (or net) metre. To activate the system:

• Turn the breakers: On your electrical panel, there will be breakers for the solar panels that are likely labelled “PV system” or “Solar PV” (PV is short for photovoltaic solar panel system). Turn them!
• Turn on the battery and the inverter: Some battery storage systems and inverters have their own “ON” buttons, which you should also press.
• Turn on Disconnect: Close the system circuit by turning on the emergency disconnect, allowing power to flow from the panels. You ought to be generating solar energy right now!
• Inverter app check: As a final step, use your solar monitoring app to confirm that everything is operating as it should. These apps connect to your solar inverter(s) to show the performance of your solar panels and your energy use in real time.

A solar installation provider will take care of all system activation needs, including obtaining the PTO. Choosing a local solar business is advised because they will be most knowledgeable about the laws and regulations in your area.

 

Following Installation

All things considered; it will take you two to six months to install solar panels. Your solar panels will produce electricity for at least 25 years after installation, giving you important protection against growing energy prices.

Once the panels are installed, you won’t need to bother about continuing upkeep either. If the rain doesn’t take care of it for you, solar panels typically only need to be cleaned twice a year. You can ask your installer to check your system if any problems do occur.

So, these are the basic 7 steps for solar panel installation. The cost of solar panels is constantly decreasing, but the installation process is still a complicated and confusing one. But with these easy steps, you will have the best experience of solar panel installation.