Installing solar panels will have an impact on reducing your electricity bill and generating clean, renewable energy for your home. We’ve put together a guide with critical steps on installing solar panels that will help you decide if this is the right choice for your home.
When it comes to a significant change in your home, especially around solar power, it’s essential to keep in mind how much you currently use, the impact of switching to solar, budgeting for the additional cost, and the total cost of ownership or ROI. As we dive into each step, our goal is to assure your investment will either reduce your electricity bill or provide intrinsic value later on, such as the increased value of your home.
Solar power is an essential source of renewable energy. Before installing a solar system, you should consider several factors such as your budget, location, climate, and the type of material. Of course, this is only a tiny piece, so to truly receive a total return on your investment, you will want to plan and follow this guide for a best practices approach.
Electricity generation is an integral part of any household. Energy demand depends on how many people live in the house, what appliances you use, and how much daily energy you use. Offsetting some or all of your monthly energy bills is a great goal that you can quickly achieve. Let’s get started!
Your Solar Power Needs
Before we jump right into the 7-Requirements, let’s also briefly review these 7-critical points to help get you moving in the right direction and provide a solid foundation for your strategy:
- Estimate Your Solar Electricity Needs
- Understand Your Energy Consumption and Your Electricity Bill
- What is The Impact of Your Home Size and Solar Design
- Where Should You Install Solar Panels
- Are There Any Ground-Mounted Solar Panels Installation Strategies
- What Are The Costs Associated To Install Solar Panels
- Is Leasing Right For Me?
Estimate Your Solar Electricity Needs
Solar panels are one of the essential investments in your home, and it is a great way to reduce household energy costs and save money right away.
However, many factors can affect how much solar power you produce. The size of your roof, the orientation of your house, the number and type of windows on your home, and even when the sun shines during daylight hours will all determine what kind of energy output you get from your solar panel system.
Knowing these factors ahead of time helps you make an educated decision about which solar technology is best for your home. And if your roof isn’t big enough or your home doesn’t have a southern-facing orientation, then there may be other options available to you.
Understand Your Energy Consumption and Your Electricity Bill
Although solar energy looks like free energy, it costs money to purchase, and it takes several years for the upfront investment in panels and installations to pay back. Also, depending on where you live, local taxes and utility rates can impact your overall monthly bill. To avoid surprises and maximize the benefits of your system, it’s essential to know precisely how much power you will consume, so you can budget accordingly and calculate how much money you will end up paying overtime.
The first step is to measure the amount of energy consumed by common appliances in your home. These numbers will help you determine whether a solar installation makes sense financially for your family. For example, if at least half of your current electrical usage comes from lighting systems, heating or air conditioning units, or television sets — then you should seriously consider installing solar panels. If those items represent a small percentage of your total consumption, then waiting for a few years until you’ve accumulated enough savings might be a wiser investment strategy.
What is The Impact of Your Home Size and Solar Design
Most solar panels can be mounted anywhere on your roof, but they must have appropriate positions to collect enough direct sunlight throughout the year to function effectively. This means that each year, your panels may require inspection and adjustments.
While some homes don’t accommodate solar panels due to their shape and design, others are larger than average and require extra space for mounting systems and equipment. If you’re concerned about the appearance of your home, try to minimize unsightly rooftop additions. However, you could also install solar panels atop existing structures, such as barns, garages, or sheds.
Also, keep in mind that not every location provides optimal conditions for solar energy collection. Some areas tend to get too little sunlight to generate a lot of power, while others receive enough sun to produce high amounts but maybe on the edge of an area with less desirable conditions such as shade.
Where Should You Install Solar Panels?
Most solar technologies work well when placed on your roof facing the southern sky. While this may seem obvious, many people mistakenly think they need a sunny spot where their entire roof points anywhere in the sky. Although this is true for certain types of installations (such as photovoltaic cells), it rarely works well with residential solar systems because, more often than not, roofs do not extend entirely across an entire property. Therefore, even if you have a large rooftop, only one side may face the proper southern direction.
Because of these limitations and potential drawbacks, many homeowners opt to place them at least partially off the main roofline to eliminate shading issues. Other options include setting them over the house’s east or west facades. On flat rooftops, however, there aren’t any ideal locations to install panels; therefore, they usually go wherever space allows.
Are There Any Ground-Mounted Solar Panels Installation Strategies
If you choose to mount your system on the ground, the next decision involves what kind of structure to use. You will want to use something sturdy so that your panels won’t fall off during heavy winds or snowstorms.
Also, make sure that your base is strong enough to carry a load that would typically go through your home, which would happen if someone were to touch or climb upon it. Your best choice for a mounting system is a concrete pad or another non-moving surface like the ground.
In addition, avoid attaching the system directly to trees, poles, or buildings unless you’ve considered all potential risks and hazards. Instead, use a buried plate or anchor point and chain or cable ties to attach panels to the ground. You must also ensure that any necessary utilities such as wires or phone lines are correctly located before installation.
What Are The Installation Costs Associated To Install Solar Panels?
Costs associated with installing solar panels depend primarily on the size of your project. It’s important to remember that the initial investment in solar panels is relatively small compared to the long-term savings generated by the energy produced by your panels.
The total cost of installing solar panels varies depending on several factors, including:
- Type of system installed (photovoltaic vs. thermal)
- Location of panels (roof vs. ground)
- Area covered by solar panels
- Number of panels installed
- Solar Panel efficiency
- Amount of sunlight available
- Area of land required
- Whether you plan to sell electricity back to the grid
Different projects vary widely in size and complexity, so getting an exact dollar amount on an individual solar panel isn’t always possible. Its recommended to consult with a professional installation company.
Upfront Costs For Installing Solar Panels at Home
First things first – solar power comes with a cost. Depending on location, it can range anywhere from $0-$10 per watt but typically ranges between $2-$4/watt.
Depending on the type of panels purchased, there are some upfront equipment costs. Most home installations require only roof rafters and sometimes siding, flashing, and gutter guards. These items’ price varies depending on the brand used and how much material you need.
If your residential system is large enough, one of the most labor-intensive installation parts is the racking hardware needed to support the panels. This part costs about $25-$50 per linear foot of panels on average. You may be able to find cheaper options if you don’t have a lot of space to work with, though. Check with local building supply stores or online retailers to see what they charge.
You also have the option to purchase insurance if you want to cover yourself against the possibility that your solar installation will not work out as planned. It’s entirely up to you and your confidence in your solar installer. Typically, insurance premiums are based on the value of your house and the square footage you’re insuring, plus an additional premium for having solar panels installed. Ask your current insurer about their policy and whether it includes warranties.
Find Out About Government Rebate Programs:
Many local governments offer rebates or tax credits to encourage residents to invest in green energy solutions. In addition to providing direct financial benefits, government programs also give individuals a sense of pride and ownership over their community and the environment. These benefits aren’t necessarily limited to those who live in an urban center; rural communities often have similar incentive packages to help residents convert to renewable energy sources. Check with your local city hall to determine if a program exists nearby.
Is Leasing Right For Me?
You can lease or purchase solar equipment from most major suppliers. However, keep in mind that leasing offers flexibility regarding payment schedules but does not allow you to take advantage of federal rebates and tax credits.
Leasing is often more convenient because your monthly payments are based on a set term, such as five years, and you don’t have to worry about paying for a loan early.
However, since you will be making payments over five years, you could end up paying more than buying a similar system outright. You may also end up paying extra fees, such as a security deposit if your supplier requires one.
1. Obtain Several Quotes for an Installation
Before hiring a solar company to install your solar panel system, make sure they are licensed and insured as well as certified by reputable organizations. If their credentials seem questionable, ask for references and check them out before signing a contract.
It’s also important to understand what warranties you will receive when getting a quote and what those warranty periods entail. Some companies offer lifetime warranties, while others offer limited warranties.
If you choose to hire a contractor yourself, try to find another homeowner who has already had the same system installed so you can learn how easy it was for them to do the work themselves. And if you know someone else who recently installed a solar panel system, inquire about how long the process took them and whether they were satisfied with the results.
Other sources of information include:
- Solar Energy Industries Association
– SEIA - American Solar Energy Society – ASES
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory – NREL
Visit Local Builders & Contractors:
Solar companies vary significantly in price and skill level. If you’re new to solar technology, consider contacting several local solar companies to get pricing estimates. Then compare the quotes to make sure you find the one that offers the lowest total cost. Also, ask each company about their warranties and financing options. You will likely need someone with experience to install your solar system, but it’s good to know where to look first.
Get In Touch With A Professional Installer
Your first step should be to contact a qualified installer in your area as they can help you determine which type and brand of solar panel system would best suit your needs.
Once you have selected a provider, be sure to explain exactly what type of system you want and why. Ask questions regarding the project timeline and any special requirements, such as where the panel system will go and how much sunlight it receives.
When meeting with prospective contractors, you may want to take photos of your home and yard and bring along samples of other homes in your neighborhood to show potential differences among dwellings. Also, it might be helpful to bring documentation showing that the house has enough space to accommodate the new panels.
Make Sure The System Is Economical
Now that you have met with a solar installation company, you must decide whether the price of installing a solar panel system is worth the cost to you.
Be sure to factor in the costs associated with electricity generated by your home during off-peak hours (when demand for power goes down) as well as maintenance and repairs.
You may also want to compare the total energy output provided by different types of solar panels. For example, you may pay less per watt for polycrystalline panels than for monocrystalline panels, but you will need fewer of the former.
Consider the time frame for your installation. Most systems are designed to last between 20 to 25 years, though some homeowners have experienced problems after a few months of operation.
Finally, keep in mind that the initial investment in a solar panel system is minimal compared to the long-term savings of using clean renewable energy instead of fossil fuels. So make an informed decision based on your situation, and remember that not all systems are created equal.
2. Complete a Site Survey With an Engineer
Before buying solar panels, you’ll need to conduct a site survey to check for obstructions or hazards that could damage or restrict the amount of sunlight that hits the roof. You can perform this task yourself or hire a professional engineer to complete the job for you. Either way, be sure to provide them access to your roof before beginning.
If you’re planning on hiring a professional installer, have them inspect your property for issues such as underground pipes and electrical cables, as well as trees, buildings, fences, and signs.
If you plan to perform the work yourself, make sure to prepare an accurate blueprint of the roof, as this will enable the technician to accurately measure and mark out areas for placement of the panels.
Also, ensure that there are no overhead wires near the grid box of the panels. Otherwise, the contractor won’t be able to mount them securely.
Finally, have a licensed electrician come out to run the necessary wiring so that you can connect the panels to the grid. Be aware that it’s illegal for unlicensed personnel to perform such work, which is why you should always hire a qualified expert.
Prepare Your Home for Installation
Before the installer arrives, arrange to have all of your appliances turned off during the installation process. If you don’t turn them off, they may cause interruptions in the flow of electricity through the lines running to the solar panels.
Next, shut off water valves located outside the house to prevent flooding. And finally, remove any items that might fall onto the roof before the installation begins, such as flower pots, leaves, toys, etc.
This step is essential if you live in a region where snowfall occurs at least once each winter season. The heavy accumulations of snow on the roof can seriously weaken the structural integrity of the roofing material and increase the risk of leaks in the ensuing spring thaw.
3. Secure the Right Permits
Get All Permitting Information:
Before starting any project, always make sure you understand all the permitting and installation issues involved with the location and type of solar panel you purchase and install. Here is where getting multiple bids can come in handy — you will have a chance to compare pricing and ask questions.
Building Permit Required:
In most regions, building permits must be obtained before installing solar panels. These permits typically include size limits, setbacks, parking requirements, landscaping, and other restrictions. While these permits tend to be pretty straightforward, they generally require your signature, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
When applying for a building permit, you will typically need at least two things:
- A copy of the building plans (if available)
- Evidence that you’ve received permission from your homeowner’s association (or similar group)
If you don’t already have this paperwork, call your local building department and ask if they can help you fill out the necessary paperwork. You might also consider getting a professional engineer to complete the drawings for you since engineering professionals are trained to write accurate plans.
Homeowner’s Association Approval:
Some homeowner associations (HOA) impose specific rules related to solar energy installations. For example, some HOA’s may require homeowners to obtain written permission from their boards before installing solar panels on their rooftops. Such boards often claim to protect residents’ safety and property value. Still, many times it is more likely that they are protecting themselves from potential liability because they know that homes without solar panels sell faster than those with solar panels installed.es
Inquire About State Requirements:
Each state has its own set of regulations regarding solar installations. Some states even have different sets of laws depending on whether you’re installing a new system vs. replacing an old one. So before making any decisions, check with your state’s Department of Public Utilities
or your local government agency to see what type of permits you will need and what documentation you’ll need to provide when completing the initial application.
Know The Terms Of Any State Renewable Energy Mandates:
Certain states have enacted laws requiring electricity providers to source 20% of their power from renewable resources by 2030 and 10% by 2025. These mandates come in many forms, including net metering, renewable portfolio standards, and renewable electricity targets. Before choosing any option, be aware of the requirements so you’ll know what you’d need to achieve compliance.
Learn About Your Community’s Renewable Energy Policies:
Some states require municipalities to set targets for switching to renewable energy, and others allow cities to opt into a voluntary policy to support clean energy generation. Find out whether your city has a renewable energy ordinance or regulation that requires certain levels of renewable energy production. This knowledge will be helpful when determining how many solar panels you want to purchase.
4. Order the Right Equipment
Choose Equipment That Suits Your Needs And Budget:
Once you’ve found a reputable retailer and completed your site assessment, you can choose equipment that best suits your needs. For example, if you’re looking to install solar panels on your home, you probably won’t need anything too significant. However, if you plan to use the system to heat water, you may want to consider something more powerful. The exact size you need will depend on how much power you will need to supply, so we recommend that you do some research online to learn what systems are appropriate for your location.
What Solar Equipment do you need?
While many options are available, the list below will give you a good idea of what materials and parts are required. These are common types of equipment found in most residential systems:
- Photovoltaic modules – are solar cells that convert sunlight directly into electricity. They usually range between 6 and 12 watts per panel. Depending on where you live, you might need anywhere from 4 to 16 panels.
- Mounting hardware – mounting brackets, screws, bolts, etc.
- Electrical wiring – wire harnesses, connectors, switches, etc.
- Control electronics – inverters, charge controllers, monitoring devices, etc.
- Charge controller – this device converts DC current from the photovoltaic module into AC current suitable for use inside your home. It regulates the flow of power to keep your batteries charged at all times.
- Battery bank – this is where most of the storage capacity resides. A battery bank or battery backup can store anywhere from 1/3 to 2/3 of the total amount of energy generated by your system.
- Power meter – this is the device that measures the output of your system and displays the data every month.
- Monitoring equipment – this includes things like temperature sensors, voltage meters, and other similar devices that help you monitor the performance of your system.
- Safety features – include fuses, circuit breakers, surge protection, etc.
- Backup generator – if your system fails, then you will need a backup generator to supply enough power to run your appliances until your main power comes back online.
- Remote access – can control your system remotely via a smartphone app or web browser.
- Insulation – helps prevent heat loss during winter months and keeps it out during summer months.
- Waterproofing – prevents water damage and corrosion caused by rain or snow.
Check Consumer Reports’ Ratings:
Consumer Reports offers information about the quality of solar products sold today. They rate manufacturers’ warranties, performance standards, prices, and customer service. Their ratings and reviews also help consumers identify reputable solar contractors in their area.
Purchase System At Retail Cost:
Once you receive your building permit, you can start shopping around for a retailer. Depending on where you live, there could be more than one company selling solar panels; however, unless you have specific concerns about a particular brand or model, shop around at multiple outlets before making a final decision.
5. Solar Panel Installation
Installer Certification:
Before installation begins, make sure your solar installer is qualified. Most states require solar installers to have certifications proving that they have been trained and certified by organizations such as:
- National Electrical Code (NEC) – IAEI
- International Electrotechnical Commission – IEC
- Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers – IEEE
- American Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers – ASHRAE
- American National Standards Institute – ANSI
- National Fire Protection Association – NFPA
- Local Building Codes Departments
This is especially true if you intend to install a large solar array, in which case you should hire a professional installer capable of handling large structures.
Have Your Solar Panels Installed:
You should get your system installed when you first purchase them. That way, you will know that everything will work well together. Also, the contractor who installs your solar panels should provide maintenance services every year or two once they are fully operational.
The same goes for your inverter (the device that converts DC into AC). Inverters often require periodic maintenance, so ensure it’s covered under warranty.
In addition to annual maintenance agreements, you might want to consider having an engineer inspect your system annually. This will give you peace of mind knowing that nobody else has touched it—and that everything is working correctly.
6. Approval and Interconnection
Get your system approved and connected to the grid.
Many utility companies may offer rebates and other incentives for installing new renewable energy projects—including solar power. Check with your local utility company before making your project final. You should also be aware of state laws regarding interconnections between utilities. Some states allow certain kinds of connections, while others prohibit them entirely.
Most states regulate how utilities connect with people who want to sell power back onto the grid. These “net metering” requirements vary slightly depending on whether your state uses net metering. Still, essentially the utility company must allow customers to connect and charge them a reasonable connection fee.
Before connecting to the grid, be sure to contact your utility provider to determine whether you’re allowed to connect. And always read the fine print—it doesn’t take long to find out that some states do not allow solar owners to connect, and others require high fees. Check your local rules to see what your options are.
If your local utility does allow net metering, you can get a bill credit for the energy you send back through your meter each month.
7. Solar Panel Maintenance and Monitoring
Monitoring Your System
Once you have successfully installed your solar panel system, the next step is to set up monitoring tools to help ensure that it continues to run smoothly.
There are many ways to monitor your panels. Most systems use at least one or more computerized sensors that measure light levels, temperature, wind speed and direction, battery voltage, current flow, and even humidity and dust levels. Each sensor communicates its measurements through a control module tied to a computer via either Wi-Fi or Ethernet cable. These data points change over time, triggering alerts that instantly tell you any potential problems.
These automated monitors constantly check the panels’ performance during the day to alert operators to possible issues such as low levels of sunlight, overheated panels or blocked airflow. They also periodically record performance metrics for later analysis by technicians. In this way, you will be able to identify any trends and quickly address any potential problems—before they become significant problems.
You should also add a few additional devices to monitor vital electrical components in your home. For example, suppose you own appliances like air conditioning units, computers, or refrigerators. In that case, you may need to install small meters that track their power draw every hour, along with thermostats that adjust the settings based on the data received from those meters.
Solar Panel Maintenance Requirements
It’s essential to keep an eye on your solar panels because some equipment needs regular maintenance to continue running efficiently, particularly after prolonged periods without direct sunlight. An adequately maintained panel will produce higher output than an underperformer, requiring less maintenance.
The most common causes of poor PV production include dust buildup inside the panel; damage caused by moisture, hail storms, insects, animals, birds, or falling debris; loose or damaged wiring harnesses; incorrectly configured inputs; or inverter failure. If any of these occur, notify your installer so you can schedule service right away.
To prevent future problems, consider scheduling regular cleaning and inspection visits by your installer. This could mean adding services to your contract, which would make them extra money for doing nothing. Or, if you already have a contractor who performs routine maintenance for you, ask them to provide a written estimate of how much they charge per visit. You can then decide whether the cost is worth it for you.