A Step-By-Step Guide to Install Solar Panels
According to statistics published by the SEIA, one in every 600 Americans installed residential solar power during every quarter of 2022.
That’s because using energy from the sun is the only way forward if we want to save our environment while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle. Solar energy is currently one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S. as we hasten to meet our sustainable energy targets.
Are you keen to join the trend, but not sure what it entails? Here’s what to expect when you decide to install solar panels.
You Enjoy Benefits When You Install Solar Panels
When you add a solar energy system to your home, you’ll enjoy savings on your electricity bill.
An off-grid installation means you can kiss your electricity bills goodbye, while a grid-tied installation means you can save via net-metering, a solar PPA, or a solar lease agreement.
You can take advantage of tax incentives when you install solar, and you’ll also increase the value of your home. In many states, you won’t pay the higher property tax associated with this new value, either.
Finally, you won’t experience the inconvenience of power outages when you have solar panels with battery backup and you can use electricity guilt-free, without worries about increasing carbon emissions.
Steps for Installing Solar Panels
Going green by installing solar panels isn’t for every homeowner, it’s certainly not a DIY job. It’s vital to work with an installer who knows how solar works.
Their knowledge of solar design, technology, and engineering will ensure you enjoy the best benefits of your installation. To do this, they must complete several preliminary steps before installing your solar panels.
These are:
An Initial Assessment
Your solar company will need some information from you before they can quote on a solar system for your home. They’ll need to know your average electricity consumption, so have your bills ready to answer their questions.
Based on this information, they can advise you whether you’ll benefit from the costs associated with installing solar panels and advise you on any ways you can save in the process.
Depending on your state of residence, you can always ask at least three companies to provide a detailed quote. For instance, those in Massachusetts can reach out to the best solar companies in Massachusetts to compare prices before they decide on the best solution for their needs.
Each company will provide you with a solar proposal highlighting suitable solar panels, batteries, and inverters for your home. They’ll work with you to ensure you make the best choice to achieve your solar energy goals.
All you need to do is figure out which solution works for your budget and sign the appropriate contract.
A Site Survey With a Solar Engineer
Once you’ve decided on a solar installation company, they will send an engineer to your home to conduct a detailed assessment of your circumstances.
This professional will evaluate your current electrical system to ensure it’s compatible with the solar system design you’ve chosen. If your solar system needs more amps than your system can accommodate, you’ll likely need to upgrade or replace it first.
The solar engineer will also look at your roof to ensure it can bear the weight of the solar panels and if you need a specialized mounting system. Usually, flat roofs require one of these customized installations.
They must also determine the best location for your solar panels based on the location of your home and how much shade falls on your roof during the day.
Getting Permits for Your Panels
Regardless of where you live, you’re likely to need permits and documentation entitling you to install your solar panels. This paperwork ensures your installation is legal and meets all local safety and zoning requirements.
You simply cannot undertake a solar installation without crossing these permits off your list.
Fortunately, a good solar installation company will guide you through the process and manage most of the paperwork on your behalf. You’ll simply have to sign where and when required.
These documents include:
- Building and electrical permits
- Your local utility’s interconnection agreement (if relevant)
- Applications for any incentive programs
Incentive programs may include federal, state, and local rebates, tax credits, and financial assistance with installing solar. You’ll need to wait several weeks for the finalization of this process.
Be sure to ask for updates every few days, so you know everything’s on track.
Ordering Your Solar Equipment
When you’ve crossed the T’s and dotted the I’s regarding the paperwork, your solar installer can place an order for the solar equipment you require.
Once they’ve done that, they’ll add your name to the installation list, which is a schedule of pending installations.
Incentive programs may include federal, state, and local rebates, tax credits, and financial assistance with installing solar panels.
Solar Panel Installation
As soon as your solar equipment arrives and you’re next in the queue, your solar installer will make arrangements to visit your home for the installation process.
Their first task is preparing your roof. This process involves inspecting your shingles or tiles to ensure they’re securely attached and placing the wires that will ultimately connect your solar system with your home’s electrical system.
After that, they install the racking which holds the panels in place, attach the PV panels and connect it to your inverter and battery bank.
This process takes between one and three days.
Approving and Connecting Your Solar System
When all the elements of your solar installation are in place, a municipal representative will visit your home to approve your installation. If they’re satisfied, they’ll issue Permission To Operate (PTO).
This procedure is a final safety precaution, as a fresh set of eyes can more easily detect any errors in electrical work or wiring.
If you’re installing a grid-tied system, a representative from your utility company will arrive to hook your system up to the electrical grid.
Finally, your solar installer will flip the switch on your solar installation, so you can start saving right away.
Questions to Ask a Solar Installer
There are a few issues you need to iron out with any solar installer before you sign a contract with them. If you don’t, you’ll never know if you’re getting the best solar installation for your needs.
These are the questions to ask:
What Solar Equipment Will You Install?
Not all solar panels offer the same efficiency, and they aren’t all made the same, either. An installation that suits your neighbor or family member isn’t necessarily right for you.
There are four main types of solar panels available:
Solar Shingles
These smalls solar panels take the place of your roof tiles or shingles. They’re efficient and aesthetically pleasing, but they’re very expensive.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels are cheaper than solar shingles and are also highly efficient. They are attractive black on black panels and most homeowners prefer them.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels are a more affordable, less efficient option. They have a blue veneer, which can look unattractive on some roofs.
Thin-film solar Panels
These lightweight panels are the least efficient of all. Since you need a lot of them to generate significant amounts of electricity, they’re most commonly found in industrial applications.
Apart from the types of solar panels available, you’ll also come across different PV panel manufacturers. Be sure to look at online reviews and warranties to determine the best ones for you.
Cheaper, less efficient panels can work for you if you don’t use a lot of electricity to run your home, and if your roof is ideal for solar panel installation. In most cases, more expensive and efficient panels offer better value for money.
Who Will Install My Solar Panels?
During your initial consultations with a solar company, you’re likely to interact with a client liaison officer, so you’ve no way of telling who will be doing the installation.
Ask if the installers are full-time employees or subcontractors. Solar companies are better able to control the quality of an installation when the installer works for them.
You should also inquire about how long the company has been in business. Ask what qualifications and certifications their installers have.
Finally, ask whether they have all the necessary licenses and insurance to operate in your state.
What’s Included in the Contract?
You’ll never know if you’re getting a good deal unless you understand what you’re signing up for. Go through the solar installer’s contract carefully and ask for clarity about anything you don’t understand.
Some things to look out for include costs, repairs and maintenance, warranties, and payment terms.
The Power Is in Your Hands
When you install solar panels, you’ll enjoy considerable benefits and savings. The best ways to maximize these are by considering all your options and working with an expert, experienced solar installer.
A solar system is an expensive, long-term investment, so take your time finding a solar installer or solar agreement that you’re comfortable with.
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