How to Install Solar Panels
Installing solar panels is best left to the pros…
We don’t recommend installing solar panels yourself– it takes experience to place the panels for optimal performance, and you could actually damage your roof (or hurt yourself!). Last but not least, the law requires that only certified electricians can wire up the system. Here, we’ve explained what your solar installers will do in the 2-3 day process of installing solar panels on your home.
The installation process
1. The solar installer performs a home evaluation.
The installer will determine the correct position and alignment for the panels so they’ll be able to soak up as much sunshine as possible. Here’s a video of what to expect:
2. Solar panel mounts (shown below)…
…are aligned on top of your rafters and holes are drilled for each mount. Next, the mounts are attached to the roof with bolts.
3. Metal flashings (thin pieces of sheet metal that help seal out water) are placed over the mounts.
The roof may be hot-mopped (layers of hot asphalt and tile paper are sandwiched to help waterproof the area). Metal rails are bolted to the posts.
4. The solar panels are attached to the rails and connected into an array.
5. Last, the solar panels are connected to your inverter.
At this stage, you’ll be able to start generating electricity to power your home. The whole installation typically takes just a few days, although the planning stage may take a few weeks. The exact process and time for installation will vary depending on your home’s specific situation. Interested in going solar? Sign up with 1BOG here.
