Thinking of getting solar panels installed on your roof?
Well, you’re 100% right. Solar power is a clean, renewable source of energy that can help you save money and feel good about finding a more sustainable way to power your home.
But whenever you’re taking on a large project like this, there will always be a chance for errors.
When it comes to residential solar installations, there are a few potential mistakes you need to know about before your team goes ahead with the installation.
Here are the most common errors with residential solar installations to watch out for and how you can avoid them. Read on!
1. Choosing the Wrong Size System
Solar panel systems installed on homes range in solar panel design and size. The size of these systems’ capabilities will depend on what is needed. If a home doesn’t have a large enough system, they risk not being able to power their entire home or generate enough electricity to make the investment worth it.
If a home has an oversized system, it could have higher upfront costs, and the amount of renewable energy being produced may not be enough to offset the high installation costs.
To avoid these errors with residential solar installations, it is essential to have a professional conduct a thorough energy audit of the home, including an assessment of current and future energy usage. When done correctly, solar can be a great way to save money, but improper sizing of the system can lead to big financial and environmental losses for a homeowner.
2. Poor Placement of Solar Panels
If solar panels are not mounted in an area where the amount of sunlight is maximized, households can suffer from lower-than-average returns for their investment.
To ensure optimal placement, solar installers should measure the sun’s angle at different times of the day, study the local climate and weather conditions, and finally check the rooftops of surrounding homes to avoid shaded areas.
Knowing the roof orientation is also important, as the angle at which the panels are mounted can often lead to varying returns. With the right approach and by avoiding common placement issues, households can benefit from increased solar energy yields and a faster return on their investment.
3. Neglecting Roof Condition
Many people fail to recognize that the roof must be in good condition to ensure the successful, long-term operation of their solar system. If the roof is damaged or too weak to support the additional weight of the solar panels, installation could be impossible, or the system could be damaged during the installation process.
It is important to check the condition of the roof before installation. It is also a good idea to have a professional inspect the roof for any existing issues that must be addressed prior to installation. By doing this, it will be easier to avoid costly mistakes due to weak or damaged roofs.
4. Poor Quality Components
The quality of the components used in a solar installation can have a significant impact on its performance and longevity. Cheaper components may save money in the short term, but they are more likely to fail and require replacement. This can range from:
- Aberrations in the size
- Shape and position of the modules
- Inaccuracies in the electrical connections
- Ineffective grounding
To avoid this, components should be chosen carefully according to the manufacturer’s specifications and trusted industry sources. Contractors must be certified and experienced in the installation of solar components and systems.
Components should be inspected for quality and operation, and regular maintenance should be done to test for any irregularities that may cause future problems.
5. Inadequate Wiring
Inadequate wiring is one of the most common errors made in residential solar installations. Poor wiring can lead to the following:
- Unstable voltage
- Over-heating
- Electrical Fires
Only experienced and qualified electrical workers are allowed to handle tasks relating to wiring, and manufacturers’ specifications should be followed.
Thick wires should be used, and all joints need to be soldered and taped securely. Inspections of the installation should be carried out regularly to check signals and readings are operating correctly.
6. Failure to Obtain Permits
Most municipalities require permits for the installation of solar panels. Knowing which permits are needed and where to acquire them often requires professional help and is critical to a successful installation. Without the proper permits, homeowners can incur the following:
- Penalties and fines
- Delays
- Have their installation uninstalled
A professional solar installation team can help identify any needs for permits and provide assurance that the project will be done with all necessary permits in place. Respecting the laws of the land is essential to a successful installation, as well as protecting the safety of the people living in and around the residence.
7. Not Considering Maintenance
Like any other system, the cost of residential solar panels installation includes regular maintenance. The life expectancy of solar systems is typically 25 years; however, over time, dust and humidity can reduce the efficiency of the module’s energy output if not regularly cleaned. Regular maintenance includes:
- Cleaning of the panels
- Inspecting the wiring and electrical connections
- Inspect the mounting system
- Check for shading
Regular solar panel maintenance reviews should be conducted to identify any inefficiencies due to the effects of weather and study the energy output of the modules.
Taking the necessary steps to incorporate a maintenance plan into your solar installation ensures a long-term, sustainable output.
Avoid These Errors With Residential Solar Installations Today
Overall, properly installed solar power systems have the potential to save you a significant amount of money on your energy bill. To ensure that you obtain the greatest benefit from a solar power system, take the time to do your research and find a certified installer.
By properly educating yourself and following safe installation procedures, you can avoid costly errors with residential solar installations.
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