How to Install Solar Panels

To power your home or business with solar electricity, you will need to know how to install solar panels. You can get started here with information about the components of a solar PV system, and the questions to answer before installation. You can choose a professional solar installer or do-it-yourself, but these basics still apply.

The major components of a grid-connected solar electric system are the solar panels to produce power from the Sun, the inverter to convert DC power generated by the panels into AC power used in your home, and the racking or mounting to secure the system to your roof or other structure. if you choose to go off-the-grid, you will need to spend about 40% more because you will need rechargeable solar batteries to store energy, and a charge controller to regulate the flow of juice to the batteries. Solar panel installation also requires a basic system design and a permit from your city, town or county.

Here are the top 10 questions to ask about solar panel installation before getting started.

1) Will the system be on-grid or off-grid?

2) Is it a roof-top or ground mounted solar installation?

3) If a roof-top installation, what is the foof pitch, measured in degrees; how many stories is the building?

4) How much electricity is being used today, measured in kWh or kilo-watt hours? Check your utility bills.

5) How many solar panels will be included in the installation to generate the needed electriity?

6) What racking system will be used for the solar installation?

7) Is there a central inverter or many micro-inverters?

8) Is there a battery backup system?

9) Does the local authority have a streamlined or a manual permitting process for solar panels?

10) Is the utility rebate paperwork going to be handled by the installer or the homeowner?

11) How many hours will the solar panel installation require; What is the hourly labor cost for solar installation?

These questions cover the essesntials before getting started. But don't worrry because solar panels, inverters and all the components come with easy, do-it-yourself step-by-step instructions so you will know how to install solar panels like a pro.

You should shop around and compare home solar kits with all the components needed to DIY and save a bundle.