Switching to solar power is excellent for the environment and can help save money on rising energy bills. 

But putting solar panels on your house is more complex than it might seem. Getting everything set up and working can take a long time, sometimes weeks or months.

The process of installing solar panels can be different for each house, depending on its size, how old it is, and the type of electrical system it has, just like when you’re doing other home improvements. For this reason, you need to be sure that solar is right for you and your home.

For this reason, working with an experienced solar contractor who knows about your local area and your home is essential. 

Knowing what to expect when installing solar panels and how to prepare for it can make things go smoothly and help you successfully start using solar power.

So, what is the process of getting home solar installed? Read on to learn the answer.

Preparations Before Solar Panel Installation

Before getting solar panels for your home, think about a few things. First, consider how your house is designed. 

Solar panels work best on significant, south-facing roof parts without much shade from trees or buildings. 

Also, the type and condition of your roof matter because they affect how the panels are mounted. 

Your roof should be strong and not rotting. If you need a new roof, it can often be done at the same time as the solar panel installation.

Do a few things to prepare your home and family for installation day. Clear your roof of obstacles, like trimming tree branches or moving a satellite dish. 

Installing solar panels can be noisy, so think about how this will affect your daily life, especially if you have young kids or pets. 

Also, make space in your yard and driveway for the installation team. Move any outdoor decorations, furniture, and your cars to give them enough room to work.

 

The Process of Getting Home Solar Installed

Site Evaluation

Before installing home solar panels, the contractor will visit your house to check everything. 

They will look at your roof and attic, see how your electrical system is set up, and decide where to put the batteries if you use them. This process ensures that solar panels fit your house. 

If there are any problems, like trees that need trimming or roof repairs, they can help you fix those before installing the panels.

Permitting

Getting permits is essential for ensuring your solar system meets safety standards, including fire, electrical, and building codes. 

The installer will handle the paperwork, like the design plan, and submit it to your local government for approval. Your contractor will help you through this process and answer any questions. 

Once you get the go-ahead, they’ll start setting up your solar panels and make sure your roof is in good shape. If your house will still be connected to the power grid, you also need your utility company’s approval. 

After everything is installed and checked, your contractor will ask your electricity provider for “Permission to Operate” (PTO).

Usually, someone from the utility company will come to your home to install a new meter that tracks the energy you make and use, which is essential for net metering.

Your contractor should help you through all these processes and know the local rules. Once you have the permit, your contractor will start the installation. 

Installation

Once you get the final approval, your solar contractor will start setting up your solar panels. They’ll make sure your roof is ready and order the panels. 

The installation, which involves setting up wiring, mounting mounts, and connecting the panels, usually takes one to two days.

The team will work on your roof, putting in supports, rails, and microinverters, and then lay out the panels and connect them to your home’s electrical system. Your electricity might be off for a few hours during this.

Steps for home solar panel installation on a roof:

 

• • Setting up scaffolding for safety.

• • Installing solar panel mounts at an angle between 18 to 36 degrees.

• • Attach solar panels firmly to the mounting structure.

• • Installing electrical wiring using MC4 connectors and disconnecting the household electricity supply.

• • Connecting a solar inverter near the main panel.

• • Connecting the inverter to the solar battery to store excess energy.

• • Connecting the inverter to the consumer unit to generate electricity and install a generation meter.

• • Switching on and testing the solar panel system.

After the installation, you can turn on your solar power system. It involves switching on the solar breaker in your electric panel, the AC disconnect, and the solar inverter. 

Congratulations! Solar energy now powers your house! Keep an eye on how much energy you’re making and using, and take good care of your solar panels to benefit from them most.

Final Thoughts

Installing solar panels is a journey that may take some time, but it ultimately leads to a valuable increase in your home’s worth. 

ECOfootprint Limited is a reliable solar company in Doncaster and can help answer your questions about going solar.

The process of solar installation is intricate, with timelines varying based on factors like local regulations, homeowners association rules, the state of your roof, and your preferences. 

Selecting a solar company committed to quality and service ensures a durable installation. 

If you’re prepared to begin this journey and install solar panels on your home, consider contacting ECOfootprint Limited to get started.