Not all solar panel companies are created equally. Some have the experience, certifications and high-quality materials to install solar panels properly, and others don’t, but bad installations can be costly and dangerous.
As your proven solar partner in Indiana, Green Alternatives wants to explain the differences between a bad and good installation. After all, our team often gets calls to fix the mistakes of other companies. Let’s start by talking about what a typical solar panel installation process looks like.
Site Survey: A professional installer will visit your home or business to assess the site and determine the best location and orientation for solar panels. They will also check for potential shading issues that could reduce energy production.
Design and Permitting: Based on the site survey, the installer will design a solar panel system that meets your energy needs and complies with local building codes and regulations, obtaining any necessary permits from local authorities. At Green Alternatives, we take an honest look at your power usage and design a system in line with your priorities and with the lowest cost of energy produced.
Roof or Ground Preparation: Before solar panels can be installed, the roof needs to be prepared. This may involve repairing damages or replacing the roof. On the ground, removing any obstacles or debris is required so the crew can work safely.
Mounting: The solar panels are securely mounted to the roof using brackets and rails.
Electrical Wiring: The solar panels are connected together using NEC compliant electrical connectors and wiring and connected to an inverter, which converts the DC power generated by the panels into AC power that can be used in your home or business.
Connection to the Grid: If you’re connected to the grid, the solar panel system will be connected through an agreement with your utility company. Your utility company will give you credits for excess electricity generated by your solar panels, but only at a wholesale rate.
Final Inspection: After the installation is complete, a final inspection will be conducted to ensure the system works properly and meets local building codes and regulations.
Bad Installations vs. Good Installations:
When installed poorly, you risk…
Poor energy production. Poorly installed panels may not produce as much energy, resulting in lower savings on energy bills.
Safety hazards such as electrical shock or fire could occur.
Roof damage such as leaks or structural damage is possible.
Warranty issues. When not done correctly, poor installation can void the warranty on solar panels and equipment.
Properly installed panels include…
Proper placement. Placed in a location that maximizes their exposure to sunlight.
Proper orientation. Angled to maximize their energy production.
Secure mounting to prevent damage to the roof and ensure their longevity.
Proper wiring done correctly and to code to prevent any safety hazards.
A good installation of solar panels is essential for the safe and efficient operation of the system. If you suspect that your solar panel system was installed incorrectly, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent any further damage and to ensure that you are getting the most out of your investment. Our team at Green Alternatives has the skill to deliver good installations, fix your bad installations and replace the ugly ones.
We work hard to do things right the first time and have a proven track record of success. All of our projects are installed to the best practices outlined in the 2020 National Electrical Code instead of the more minimal standards of the 2008 National Electrical Code required by Indiana. All components we install meet UL safety standards. We use proven suppliers and products to ensure reliability and maximize efficiencies. For questions about solar energy and our services at Green Alternatives, call us at 765-480-2423 or email gai@solargai.com.
