Solar panels use solar energy, which is a more clean and cost-effective long-term source of electricity. Many homes and industries are rapidly shifting to solar energy as their major source of electricity.
Can I Install My Solar Panels Myself?
Yes, but due to the hassles and technicalities involved, you should contact professionals from a good solar installation company to do the job for you. However, whether you are seeking to DIY or you are curious about what the entire process will look like, we have ten easy-to-follow steps to guide you through this.
STEP ONE: Ensure to Choose a Good Solar Installation Provider
This is where it all starts. Various factors must be considered in choosing a provider. Always confirm quality, customization, licensing/certification, and cost of a solar installation company before choosing one. Additionally, it would be best if you go through the reviews left by other customers.
STEP TWO: Roof Accessibility and Suitability
Most solar panels are installed on the rooftops; this ensures direct exposure to sunlight. Additionally, it prevents the panels from being tampered with.
There are certain roof conditions that aren’t suitable for solar panels and you might be wondering, is my roof suitable for solar panels? Well, your roof will be ideally suitable if:
- The angle of your roof is about 30 degrees
- Your roof is made of durable materials and is not worn out
- There are no shades from trees or nearby buildings and structures over your roof
- It has a large surface area
STEP THREE: Scaffolding
Structures will be put in place around the roof temporarily especially when multiple panels are to be installed. Though this may take time, it is a protective measure for the workers.
STEP FOUR: Installing the Solar Panels’ mounts
The bolts and mounts to securely hold the panels are attached to the rooftops. They provide stability.
STEP FIVE: Fix on the Solar Panels
Install your solar panels onto the mounts. Adjusting them properly to the best position, secure the solar panels tightly using bolts.
STEP SIX: Wiring
Now you are done with putting the panels in place, it is time to make them functional. Solar panels can either be connected in series or in parallel based on your desired output current and voltages. This step is best carried out by an expert in wiring alternating and direct current.
STEP SEVEN: Connecting the Solar Inverter
Unlike the solar panels, the inverter requires a cool environment to function and as such is not installed on the rooftop but within the house. The inverter converts the direct current electricity from the solar energy to alternating current.
STEP EIGHT: Bond the Solar Batteries
You can decide whether or not to add solar batteries. However solar batteries are highly useful as they store up energy which can be used to still generate electricity in the absence of sunlight. The inverter is then connected to the solar battery which in turn can be connected in series or parallel.
STEP NINE: Connect the Inverter to the Consumer units and a generation meter
The consumer unit regulates the distribution of solar energy in your space while the generation meter monitors the performance of each panel in generating electricity.
STEP TEN: Test Run!
The best part- confirm that your solar panels and the installations are working accurately.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Install Solar Panels?
This will be determined by the number of solar panels to be installed, the complexity of the electrical wiring, technical know-how, and the number of professionals involved in the process. However, for a home setup, with professionals at work, 12 hours or less will suffice.
How Can Solar Panels Be Maintained?
Solar panels do not require much maintenance asides from periodic cleaning, about three to four times a year using long soft-brittle end brushes. Annual checks with a solar technician would be a good idea too.
