Are you planning on getting solar panels for your home?
As valuable as solar panels are for the environment, they’re even more valuable for home energy savings. The solar panel system you install will likely represent the single largest home energy upgrade you’ll make in your lifetime.
As you get ready for the project, there are several errors with solar panel installations to avoid. We break down the most common mistakes and how you can avoid them.
1. Not Obtaining Necessary Permits
One of the most common errors with installing solar panels is the failure to obtain the necessary permits. When installing solar panels, any necessary permits must be obtained from the relevant state or local government, as well as your homeowner’s association or housing authority.
Failure to obtain the necessary permits could result in fines, removal of your solar panels, or even legal action. Additionally, the permit process requires a review of the installation plans and information to ensure the proper installation procedures are being followed. This could potentially identify potential issues in the installation process before they become a problem down the road.
2. Not Knowing The Right Type of Solar Panel
Common errors when purchasing solar panel systems include not knowing the right type of panel, not taking into account the size of the panel needed, and not properly accounting for the cost of installation and maintenance.
To avoid these mistakes, it is important to carefully evaluate your energy needs, research the benefits and drawbacks of different panels, understand the local requirements for installation, and calculate the installation and maintenance costs.
Additionally, one should always purchase from an established and reputable company that is experienced in the solar installation process and is familiar with any applicable local and state guidelines and regulations. With thorough research and planning, one can avoid these common errors with solar panel installations and purchase the best type of solar panel for their needs.
3. Disposing of Old Solar Panels Incorrectly
Unfortunately, a common error is not taking adequate safety measures when handling and disposing of solar panels. Solar panels contain hazardous materials such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium, so they should be handled with extra care.
An important part of disposing of old solar panels correctly is finding an appropriate location to take them for proper disposal. Homeowners should check with their local landfill for instructions, as depending on state and local regulations, there may be specific guidelines for the disposal of solar panels.
4. Not Taking Climate into Consideration
When making solar panel installation decisions, climate should always be taken into account for optimal panel performance. Common errors can occur when considering the climate, leading to poor performance. For instance, if panels are installed in a region of high rainfall, then they will be prone to moisture damage.
Furthermore, areas with intense heat and high temperatures require panels that are well-equipped to cope with the weather. Installers must research local climate and assess temperature ranges as well as rainfall, sunlight, and winds before installing a solar panel system.
Installers must also plan for changing climate patterns in the future to ensure the system is still capable of providing peak performance in years to come. Taking into account climate conditions will help reduce the chance of errors and maximize the performance of the solar panel system.
5. Improper Placement of Solar Panels
Furthermore, the angle at which the solar panel needs to be placed should be in accordance with the latitude of the location to receive optimal exposure from the sun during the summer season. If the panel is placed at an angle that isn’t in tune with the seasonal changes and the sun, it can put unnecessary strain on the installation and can have a lasting impact on the output.
Another critical factor to consider is to ensure the panels are installed a safe distance away from any nearby buildings or trees that would cause shade or block the sun’s rays. Properly planning and taking the right steps to avoid any inefficient or hazardous installations is key to getting the most out of any solar energy system.
6. Overlooking Output Temperature Differences
One such error is not taking into account output temperature differences which can cause the suboptimal performance of the panels. Temperature affects solar panel output, so understanding the temperature range in the area the panels will be installed can be beneficial.
To avoid this error, it is important to consider the effects of temperature in your array design. For instance, mounting solar panels at a steeper angle than recommended can reduce solar panel temperature and increase output while also helping with snow shedding in cold climates.
7. Incorrect Connectors and Wire Gauges
Connectors are important when installing solar panels as they provide a secure connection between components in the system, reducing the risk of shock and fire. Using the wrong-sized connector can cause a loose connection and an increase in heat, resulting in damaged equipment.
Similarly, using the wrong gauge size wire can lead to overloaded circuits, creating a potential hazard to the installation. When selecting a connector or wire gauge, it is important to refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and make sure you purchase the correct size for the job. View the article source on blueravensolar.com to know more about Solar Panels.
Learn More About Errors with Solar Panel Installations
It is important to research the specifics of solar panel installation in your area. While common errors may occur, they can usually be avoided when projects are supervised by qualified professionals. It is essential to stay informed on the details of installation, so take the time to learn more about errors with solar panel installations.
Did you find this article informative? Check out the rest of our blog for more!
