Solar panels offer invaluable benefits for homeowners. In fact, it’s reported that homeowners can save as much as $30,000 in utility costs throughout the year when they install solar panels for their homes.
If you’re considering installing solar panels for your home, you may be wondering how difficult or time-consuming the job is. As you will find out, a solar panel installation project is a relatively straightforward process.
In this article, you’ll learn how to install solar panels and if you’ll need to hire a professional for help.
Step #1: Create the Framework on Your Roof
Before you begin, you’ll first need to lay out where your solar panels will rest on your roof. This also involves marking where the stanchions will go, which are the support systems for your panels.
Once you make these marks, screw each stanchion into your roof through a rafter. Finally, make sure the flashing fits snugly beneath your roof shingles to stop any future leaks.
Step #2: Install the Rails
This is one of the easiest parts of installing solar panels, especially if you’ve already marked where they are going to be located on your roof. The aluminum rails will ensure that your solar panels will stay firm and secure on your roof.
First, tighten the upper and lower rails to their corresponding stanchions. You should always use stainless steel bolts and an impact driver for maximum security.
Next, measure your rails diagonally from one end to the other. If all of your diagonal measurements are the same, this means that your frames are square. If not, adjust your rails until your measurements are equal.
Finally, install the middle rail and make sure it’s aligned with both the lower and upper rails before moving forward.
Step #3: Attach the Electrical Components
Once your rails have been installed, it’s time to hook up your solar panels. Start by wiring up each electrical conduit to each of your solar panels.
Next, you should install a micro inverter under your solar panels, as this will keep your products hooked up parallel to each other rather than in series.
Then, attach a 6-gauge bare copper grounding wire to all your inverters. This will ground your entire solar panel system and give you the opportunity attach your wires from one panel to the next.
Step #4: Put Your Solar Panels in Place
Now that your stanchions are locked in, place your solar panels inside and attach the plug connections. Finally, screw the remaining clips to the rails to make sure they are fully secure.
Finally, you’ll need to enter your basement to complete the remaining electrical work. This simply involves connecting the solar panels to an external meter and its own electrical panel.
Need More Help in How to Install Solar Panels
Now that you know how to install solar panels, it’s up to you to determine whether or not you want to hire a professional for the job. To work with a premier residential solar company, contact us today to speak to a member of our sales team.
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