More and more individuals were installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at their homes or places of business as costs were falling and solar energy was becoming more and more popular. What information can consumers acquire about solar products they are purchasing? How can you be certain that your installer is giving you a high-quality solar system at a fair price? You could become an adept solar power buyer with a few tips and tactics.

The ABCs of Solar Energy

Solar panels turn sunshine into kilowatt-hours of power (kWh). If the solar energy is more than you need right now, you can use it all yourself or feed the extra energy back into the grid. Kilowatts (kW), which denote the maximum direct current (DC) capacity of the system or array, are a standard way to define the size of your system. This is just the result of multiplying the number of modules by the nameplate power of each one. For instance, a 6 kW array would’ve been made up of 20 modules, each powered at 300 watts. The yield of your system, or how much electricity it will produce during the day, will be determined by its parameters, including the tilt, orientation (north, south, east, or west) of the array, shading, DC-AC conversion ratio, as well as other special elements. 

Exactly What Are You Purchasing?

The solar modules, also known as panels, the racking which holds them to your roof or even the ground, the wiring which connects them to the electric service panel, and one or even more solar inverters which transform the DC electricity generated by the panels into the AC electricity used during buildings constitute the primary parts of a solar system. Various solar installers adelaide manufacturers produce these parts, and they might come with various warranties that typically last between 10 and 25 years. Ensure you are aware of the installer’s craftsmanship & major part warranties. 

Solar is a significant investment, no matter what equipment you purchase or how you pay for it. You will be required to research to identify the best solar installer because, like any other industry, they are not all made equal. Installers must know your Class A Energy usage and utility costs, assess your roof to see whether it can support solar, and respond to your inquiries. The result is a personalised proposal detailing your purchase, how much it costs, and your long-term electricity cost savings. Before beginning your solar installation, it is advised to get at least three solar proposals.

Solar Panel Installation Procedure

The roof is where panels are most frequently installed. Most roofs often meet the installation requirements needed to give panels the most sunlight. You may put the solar panels on the ground if roof placement is not feasible or desired. You need to ensure that nothing is in the way of the sun.

The procedure for mounting solar panels on a roof is described below:

• Scaffolding setup

To guarantee protection while installing on the roof, you must first create scaffolding.

• Mounting systems for solar panels

You must then install the solar panel mounting system. This will support the solar panels’ foundation. The entire mounting structure must also be inclined at 18 to 36 degrees to receive the most sunlight.

• Put the solar panels in place

The solar panel needs to be put on the mounting framework after the mounts are set up. You ensure that it remains stable and tighten all the bolts and nuts.

• Pair up the solar panels

The installation of the electrical wire is the following stage of the setup process. It typically utilises MC4 connectors since they are suitable for all solar panels. Remember to turn off the home’s energy supply while installing the wiring.

• Putting in a solar inverter

The system must then be connected to the solar inverter after that. It is often placed around the main panel and can be either inside or outdoors. If kept in a colder environment, inverters operate more effectively.

If the inverter is outside, it must be protected from the midday sun. If it is placed indoors, the garage or utility room is typically the best location because they have airflow that stays cool most of the year.

• To the consumer unit, link the inverter

The inverter needs to be linked to the consumer unit to produce energy. A generation metre must also be linked to tracking the amount of electricity the solar panels generate. You can analyse the effectiveness of your solar system using a computer or other gadget. For instance, you may determine the best time to use your washing machine or other utilities by looking at how much electricity you produce at various times.

• Solar panel startup and testing

As the last stage, the newly installed solar panel system must be tested and powered on. The solar panels’ installation is then complete.

Solar Panel Servicing

Solar panels require extremely minimal maintenance due to the absence of moving parts. You must check them periodically yearly for debris or other objects that may have accumulated on top. The panels must be pristine and free of any obstructions in order for them to efficiently absorb sunlight.

You must discuss the warranty terms with your installer before you attempt to clean the panels yourself. Some manufacturers of solar panels might revoke the guarantee if any self-cleaning is done. You can wash the face of the panels with a regular garden hose for cleaning. It is suggested that you do this in the morning or evening. Also, please avoid showering them with cold water when they are still hot, as this could harm them.

Conclusion

Solar panels (modules), a mounting system, and a solar inverter with a computerised controller make up solar systems. DC power is generated by solar panels using sunlight. The generated electricity would then be converted into AC by the inverter so you can use it in the home. The solar system is managed and optimised by the computational controller. A battery is necessary if you just want an off-grid solar system or a backup system.