BLOG
search

A Guide for Solar Panel Installation

Anastasia KravchukAugust 14, 2017 2124 0

A Guide to a Solar Panel Installation

How are Solar Panels Installed?

Today, solar panel installation seems simpler than ever.  With YouTube tutorials, design software, and the multitude of online information available, it is no wonder that some homeowners may not feel the need to hire an installer.

While many DIY-minded people think they can simply install solar panels onto their home by themselves, this job is certainly not a typical DIY project. Even a professional electrician needs some experience with installation techniques, permits, and fire code requirements before attempting a solar PV installation.

If you are a contractor interested in becoming a licensed solar installer, visit the solar training network on the Department of Energy’s website. However, if you just want to learn more about the solar installation process, here is a step-by-step guide for a home solar installation.

Step 1: Get an Estimate from a Solar Installer

While different solar equipment options can have varying costs/benefits that can be objectively compared, choosing an installer is mostly a question of personal preference. Your installer should be someone you feel comfortable inviting into your home and should have all the necessary licenses and qualifications required for the profession.  You can get multiple installation quotes from verified, pre-screened installers in your area through HahaSmart.com

Before giving you an installation quote, most installers will ask you a series of questions about your home. These questions are intended to verify the condition and angle of your roof, your monthly electric bill, potential financing options, and any federal or local incentives for which you may qualify.

Once you choose an installer and secure your financing method, the solar system installation process can begin.  

Step 2: Home and Site Evaluation

Your chosen solar installer will make an appointment to visit your home in order to evaluate your property and determine the best solar equipment options for you. During the site evaluation, the installer will inspect your roof and attic, as well as your home’s electrical system. This inspection helps the installer determine the best locations for your solar panels, inverter, and your monitoring equipment. If you have an older home, your installer may recommend an electrical panel upgrade or require a roof repair before your system can be installed.

After the site evaluation is completed, your installer will discuss the different solar equipment options available to you. Installers within the HahaSmart network are able to provide multiple quotes with various product combinations and warranties, depending on your needs.

Step 3: Design and Permitting

Once all of the information has been gathered and the appropriate measurements have been made, you solar installer will create a solar engineering and site design plan. 

The design plan will include the number of solar panels that will be installed, where the panels will be placed on your roof, system wiring details, and a description of how your system will be connected to the utility. The plans are then submitted to your city/county permitting departments as well as your utility company and your installer will await the permit. Depending on the jurisdiction the design and permitting phase can last anywhere from a couple of weeks to almost 3 months. After the permit has been issued your installer will schedule an installation date.

Step 4: Solar Installation

The actual installation is the usually the fastest part of the entire process of switching to solar.  Today, residential solar installations are typically completed in one to three days.  Though you do not need to be present during the installation, if you plan on being absent, make sure your installers have access to your roof and electrical system when they arrive.

After the solar panels are attached to the roof and all the electrical and monitoring equipment is mounted, the installer will clean up the work area and notify the city/county that the installation has been completed.

Step 5: Inspection and Interconnection

Each city, county, and utility has its own final inspection and approval requirements for solar system installations.  A regional inspector will visit your property to make sure that your installation was completed as planned in the granted permit.

The utility will also inspect and sign off on the installation before it’s officially connected to the grid. The interconnection waiting period may take days or weeks, and while you are waiting, your installer will keep you personally informed about how things are progressing.

After all the necessary approvals are obtained, your installer will have the green light to flip the switch and connect your system.  Congratulations - your system is officially up and running! Get ready to enjoy your savings!

 

Solar system price checker

Comments

Design Your Solar Home

START

12 3

Input your address to see if it is solar friendly and how much you can save with solar.

Great. Your address is perfect for solar. Solar incentive is still available. Select monthly utility cost and calculate the size of solar system you will need now.

Whoa ! Going solar is definitely a smart decision.

kw System size years Payback period Lifetime savings

No money down, 100% finance is available.