A residential solar power system is installed to generate power from the sun to be able to run self-sustained and off-grid. Solar technology is not rocket science but there are crucial steps to learn when you want to install your solar panel on your own or to make sure that the professionals you hired are installing your system the proper way.
The goal of this residential solar panel installation guide is to define the step by step process of installation to make solar an easier DIY project if that is your goal. Familiarize yourself with the technical terms and standards that every individual who wants to make a change in their energy infrastructure should know.
Essential Equipment Needed to Efficiently Deliver Power
A residential solar panel system is designed to meet the energy demands of a household. To ensure power at all times for all appliances in the home, the following pieces of equipment are used:
- Converters
- Energy Storage
- Controllers
- Local Backup
Step by Step Process of Residential Solar Panel Installation
- Planning
Create a clear constructed plan with precautionary measures to ensure that everyone involved in the installation will be safe in the process. Do not forget to review the safety guidelines for installing your system which is included in the product guide.
- Prepare All Materials Needed
Before you unpack your solar panel system, there are certain preparatory steps you will have to take. We also included certain things you have to check when unboxing your residential solar panel system.
- Purchase materials needed that are not included in the package like:
- Wiring
- Junction boxes and splices
- AC breakers and sub-panels
- AC disconnects and fuses
- PV meters
- Conduits and meters
- Mounting materials
- Roof mounting sealant
- Stay organized while unboxing all parts of the system. To do this, you may consider doing the following:
- Unbox in a clean and open space where you can inspect your equipment.
- Place loose parts in resealable plastic bags and label them.
- Check the continents of the shipment against the packing list.
- Verify if there are any missing or damaged parts.
- Place batteries on a charger ASAP if you are not going to install the system right away.
- Keep documentation with stickers or QR codes for micro-inverters or power optimizers. This will prevent confusion later on as to which unit controls which panel.
- Mounting the Solar Panels
Houses have different roof systems so contractors use different mounting systems on each roof type. The most common roof mounting solution for residential roofs is the Direct Mounted solution. For households that do not have a suitable roof for a solar panel installation, the Ground Framework installation is used. These two mounting solutions are described below:
Direct Mounted
For this type of installation, the solar panels are installed directly on the roof. The solar panels are tilted to a certain degree for them to work better during winter months when solar energy is limited. The tilt should likewise not allow wind to rip the panels off the roof.
The basic steps for a residential solar panel installation on a roof include:
- Place mounts four feet apart on rafters
- Drill holes into rafters
- Secure the mount with steel bolts
- Seal the surrounding area
- Fasten the solar panel to the mount
- Connect the solar panel to the electricity supply
Ground Framework
If your roof is not suitable for direct mounted solar panels and you have a lot of wide space with the view of the horizon where your panels can capture maximum solar energy from the rising of the sun to its setting, the ground framework is the best option for you.
Solar panels are installed into the ground in two ways:
- Can track or follow the sun for optimum power generation
- Can remain fixed like Direct Mounted solar panels
Getting the Job Right
Residential solar panel installation is a complex project that involves a lot of details. It is recommended that you hire a certified professional team to get the job done right.
It will be more cost-effective in the long run because they have the necessary tools needed for the whole process and their experience and expertise will allow the completion of the project safely and in a timely manner. Use the residential solar panel installation guide for reference so you know if your solar panels are installed to perform at optimum capacity and maximum efficiency.