Solar Panels Installation on Roof: Step-By-Step Guide
The popularity of solar panels is increasing day by day due to their innumerable benefits. They are preferred by many homeowners and business owners to reduce their energy bills and reliance on the grid. The efficiency of the solar panels lies in the process of installation; the better the installation, the higher the output will be. This blog will explain all the steps involved in the solar panels installation.
Steps to Install Solar Panels on Roof
Solar panel installation on roofs involves the following steps:
Scaffolding Set Up
The first step is to install scaffolding around the building where you want to install solar panels. Usually, this step takes the most time than all other steps involved in the procedure, taking from 12 hours to a complete day. The scaffolding is installed to ensure the installer can reach the roof and work there safely and securely.
Installing Brackets
The next stage involves installing anchoring brackets on the roof’s rafters to support the solar panels. Installing these brackets requires removing some roof tiles, which creates a stable foundation for the solar panels and ensures that they won’t get damaged in stormy climates.
Mounting System Set Up
To support the solar panels, a framework called a mounting system is installed across the roof in a criss-cross pattern. This framework is also responsible for placing the solar panels at the optimum angle so they can absorb the maximum sunlight.
Solar Panels Placement
Here comes the big moment: the solar panels are placed on the sturdy frame and adjusted to the optimum angle. Once the installer is satisfied with the angle and the placement of the solar panels, they will be anchored to the frame.
Inverter Placement
An inverter is required to convert the DC voltage generated by solar cells into useable Alternating voltage. This component of the solar system is installed inside your house, usually inside the loft. The inverter installation commonly takes around 5 to 6 hours but may vary depending on the size of the solar system.
Consumer Unit
When your solar panel installation is finished, the entire system is linked to the consumer unit, which is located in your fuse box. This allows you to check the quantity of electricity generated by the solar panels. In many circumstances, you’ll be able to remotely monitor your panels using an additional meter.
Testing of Solar System
After the installation has been completed, the final stage is to ensure that the system is working efficiently. It’s simply a matter of turning the power back on and monitoring each component of the system to ensure everything is working properly.
How are the Solar Panels Linked to the House?
There are two types of connections that link the solar panels to the house, i.e. electrical and mechanical.
Electrical Connection
To connect the system electrically, the installer will run a number of wires through your roof to link the solar panels to the inverter. From the inverter, the cables will be taken to the fuse board. Your technician will place an additional circuit breaker on it so that you may manage the flow of solar power.
Mechanical Connection
The solar panels will be mechanically connected to your home by the installer using aluminium or steel hooks that are fixed to the rafters in your loft. This connection will be simple if your roof tiles are composed of clay. In the case of slate tiles, it is equally manageable, but the installer will need to take extra precautions.
How to Determine the Suitability of the Roof?
Before beginning with a solar panel installation, the installer should always ensure that the roof is robust enough.
Generally, most modern roofs have trussed rafters and can support much heavier objects, making them perfect for solar panel installation.
How Long Does It Take to Install Solar Panels?
Solar panel installations are normally completed in two days. The majority of this time is spent building the scaffolding, so if you’re not installing your panels on your property’s roof, it will take significantly less time. After the scaffolding is placed, it will normally take one day to install the solar panels.
However, the overall duration can be influenced by the size and the type of property and any unforeseen, hazardous weather conditions.
Can You Install Solar Panels by Yourself?
Technically yes, but it is strongly advised to hire a certified installer to ensure a seamless installation. Installing solar panels by yourself is associated with many risks, such as you may fall and injuring yourself or, worse, starting a home fire.