Posted by A lot of homeowners have at least heard about solar energy before. You may think about installing solar panels for your home but balk at the idea of it.
You’ve heard installing these types of energy panels isn’t easy, and you don’t want to waste your money by doing it wrong. So, you’ve set it aside as a future project.
There are common mistakes people make in installing solar panels. Made a few of these that could potentially damage your system. Keep reading to learn how to avoid these mistakes with installing solar panels.
1. Misunderstanding Your Energy Requirements
One of the most common mistakes is misunderstanding your energy requirements. This can create an oversized or undersized system, either not producing enough energy or producing too much and wasting money. To avoid this, it is essential to accurately calculate your energy requirements, considering any seasonal variations or future increases in energy usage.
Additionally, the roof area should be considered to ensure enough space can be allocated for the solar panel system while allowing enough room to access and service the systems.
2. Ignoring Local Regulations
It’s important to research your municipality’s zoning and solar laws before beginning the installation process. Depending on where you live, permits may be needed to install photovoltaic panels, and this should always be taken into account before installation. If you fail to follow local regulations, you may spend valuable time and resources dealing with fines or other stressful problems.
Always check with your city, county, and state government before beginning a solar project to avoid a headache. Hundreds of dollars could be saved by researching local regulations and staying within the boundaries of the law.
3. Failure to Monitor Your System
Not regularly monitoring your system could lead to several issues, including:
- Not accurately tracking energy production
- Not properly troubleshooting system issues
- Not understanding usage patterns
To avoid these mistakes, homeowners should:
- Regularly check the performance
- Keep track of the data
- Ensure regular solar panel maintenance
- Schedule check-ups with a professional
4. Inadequate Roof Maintenance
It is essential to have your roof inspected annually to maintain its structural integrity to secure the solar panels that will be installed properly. One of the most significant issues is the fastener used to connect to the roof deck. If this is inadequate or if the fastener is not reinforced properly, it could end up causing significant damage.
Another issue is the standing water or debris that accumulates on the roof. Any pooling water can cause the roof deck to rot, leading to subsequent panel damage.
Finally, improper flashing can also lead to a leak. To avoid these mistakes, it is essential to have your roof checked each year and ensure that the proper fasteners, flashing, and trenching are accounted for.
5. Selective Purchase of Solar Panels
Considering only the solar panel costs without understanding the additional equipment and associated costs needed for a successful solar installation service can lead to frustration and costly mistakes. Ensure that you purchase all necessary components for a safe and efficient installation. Other common mistakes are failing to check for proper orientation and placement and not considering future energy needs.
Ensure that the solar panel’s angle and location will be suitable to receive the most sunlight. Additionally, consider the necessary panels to support current and future needs. Consulting with an expert or researching the type of system that best suits your area can help you avoid making these costly mistakes.
6. Forgetting to Check for Building Code Compliance
Building codes vary greatly across different regions and states, so failing to properly inspect before installation could potentially lead to costly amendments being enforced. It is wise for individuals to research their state and local codes beforehand or contact a local professional to assist.
Checking for the availability of materials and local incentives are also worth investigating. Ensuring contractors are qualified and experienced in the particular type of system being installed is equally important. By ensuring all the proper steps are taken, costly problems can be avoided, and a successful solar panel installation can be made.
7. Neglecting Electrical Safety Considerations
This not only can harm people involved in the installation but can result in property damage or even severe injury or death. When installing solar panels, one should always ensure that the electrical system is grounded correctly and that the panel is securely bolted to prevent potential shock hazards.
Installing ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) circuitry is also important to protect against potential shocks. If you are unfamiliar with this type of electrical safety, it is strongly recommended to seek help from an experienced electrician. The entire system should also be inspected to make sure that all components are properly connected and secured.
Finally, when working with electricity, one should always wear the right protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses. By following these simple guidelines and checking this service continued on this page, you can help avoid any potential risks.
Avoid These Mistakes with Installing Solar Panels
By understanding these common mistakes with installing solar panels and understanding how to troubleshoot and avoid them, you can be confident you are getting the most out of your solar system. For expert guidance, trust a certified solar installer to install and maintain your solar system.
Choose wisely for a solar system that will bring clean and efficient power for years to come!
Don’t forget to browse our site for advice on technology, products, services, and more.
Related