Solar upgrades have become one of the top renovations for homeowners across the nation. But how exactly are rooftop panels installed? What steps can you expect your installers to follow? Don’t worry: we’ve broken down your solar panel installation in Denver into a handful of key steps.
Every Solar Installation is Different
Because everyone’s situation is different and every home is unique, every solar system is different from the last. As such, it’s important to keep the following facts in mind:
- There are three main types of solar power systems: (1) Grid-connected, (2) Grid-connected with batteries, and (3) Off-grid
- Different solar panels, like PV vs thin film, have differences in energy efficiency and installation methods.
- Mounting systems can vary drastically in size, shape, and durability.
- Rooftop installations may follow different steps than ground installations.
Assuming your roof can withstand the weight of a solar system, you can typically expect your contractor to complete a few essential steps.
1. Evaluate Your Solar Needs
Before any work begins, it’s important to first understand what kind of system will best suit your energy needs and budget. It’s a good idea to conduct a home energy audit so you gain a clear idea of your energy use, comfort, and safety (energy.gov).
Your solar installers can help you determine your energy needs if you’re unsure. They can also provide details on solar panel products, the energy efficiency of each cell, and other related information.
Once you’re on the same page about your solar power, your contractor will then design a solar system from scratch for you.
2. Wiring and Electrical Set-Up
Your solar contractor needs to develop a detailed action plan in advance on how to run the wiring for your solar system. The specifics are custom to the property and the solar system design.
Your solar contractor will plan out the electrical route for your system to ensure your safety and preserve your solar system. They’ll take care of wiring essentials like:
- Grounding the system
- Installing the back-feed breaker
- Mounting your inverter
- Planning out the electrical route
- Wiring management
- And more
Once the wiring and electrical plan are in place, your solar specialist will move on to the next step.
3. Mount Installation
The solar mounts are base structures that provide support and sturdiness for the system. To install your roof mounting, your contractor will follow 3 steps:
- Locate and mark the roof rafters – For a sturdy foundation, your roof-mount flashing needs to be bolted to your rafters.
- Install roof attachments to secure the rails in place – Your roofing shingles may influence the roof attachments for your solar power.
- Install racking rails
4. Mount the Panels
Once the racking rails are installed, it’s a seamless process to add those rooftop solar panels. Your panels will be secured to the frame and wired in. Then your inverter will be installed as well. That little component transforms the energy from the solar panels into electricity your home can use.
5. Solar Battery Installation
Most residential solar systems still need to be tied into the energy grid. However, with a battery, you are not solely reliant on the grid for energy and you can store a certain amount of energy in your home battery. That stored energy can be especially valuable during power outages and it allows you the flexibility to use your stored energy to avoid “Time of Use” rate hikes.
Each solar battery has unique requirements in terms of installation and room design. For instance, nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries contain toxic materials, so installers need to be very careful during installation. On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries perform very well, but can have difficulties in colder weather (SolarReviews). As such, it’s important that you hire a knowledgeable installer who will place the battery in its ideal ambient temperature so you don’t have to worry about your battery failing when you need it most.
Soon enough, you’ll begin to generate renewable energy for your property, reduce your carbon footprint, and lower your utility bills. Just keep up with your solar panel maintenance to ensure your energy independence for many years to come.
Request a Quote for Your Solar Panel Installation in Denver
Are you ready to make the switch to solar energy? Then you’ve come to the right place.
At EcoMark Solar, we have been installing and maintaining residential solar systems all across Colorado for over a decade. We understand the ins and outs of the solar industry and we’ll work diligently to help you get the federal tax credits and solar incentives that you deserve.
Contact EcoMark Solar today to get your accurate estimate for a top-rated solar panel installation in Denver.
