SOLAR SYSTEM INSTALLATION PROCESS

SOLAR SYSTEM INSTALLATION PROCESS

1. Setting Up the Mounting System

Roof Installation

For roof-mounted kits, begin by marking the spots where your roof rafters are located. These beams provide the base for your solar setup. If rafters aren't visible externally, you can use a stud finder or measure from your attic. Once located, mark them with chalk lines to guide your racking rails.

Attach flashings to the marked rafters. Flashings prevent leaks and serve as attachment points for the rails.

Secure the racking rails onto the flashings.

Ground Installation

Ground-mounted kits differ. Without roof rafters, you must build a standalone metal foundation.

Dig holes at least 45 centimeters (18 inches) deep and pour concrete footings for stability. Allow about a week for the concrete to set.

Buried wiring is necessary for ground mounts to adhere to electrical codes. Consider renting machinery for trenching.

With the metal structure in place, attach racking rails as in roof installations.

2. Installing the Inverter

Microinverters should be attached to panel backs before mounting, ensuring wiring is done before installation.

String inverters are wall-mounted near panels for efficient wiring.

3. Attaching Solar Panels

Racking built, panel installation becomes simpler.

Start with two end clamps on the rails for the first panel.

Use mid clamps to bind consecutive panels and rails together.

Secure the final panel with two end clamps.

For roof installs, connect wires before bolting panels to rails.

4. Adding the Battery (if applicable)

Installing a battery backup from your kit follows these steps:

 - Prepare the site, ensuring space, ventilation, and support.

 - Follow manual instructions for electrical setup, wiring, grounding, and connection to the inverter or gateway.

 - Mechanically mount the battery using brackets.

 - Configure and test the battery's communication and performance.

 - Adhere to the manufacturer's manual and safety precautions.

5. Wiring the System

After panels are on the mount, wire the components according to your plan:

Inverter wires pass through a junction box and PV disconnect switch, then connect to your home's circuit breaker box for grid connection.