Solar Installer
Just a couple of years ago, no one would’ve thought that homes and commercial buildings can be powered with anything else but money-draining electricity. With climate change becoming a reality and introduction of several local and federal tax incentives, it has become a necessity and skyrocketed the reputation of solar installers to boot.
Who are Solar Installers?
Solar installers or solar photovoltaic (PV) installers are professionals who install and maintain entire solar panel systems on roofs and other flat structures. Before you hire anyone, make sure that the ones you have shortlisted can do the following:
• Plan solar system configuration according to your requirements and the needs of the site.
• Connect the panels to the power grid
• Activate and test the system and ensure it performs well
• Perform regular maintenance checks.
• Install support structures, solar modules etc according to building standards and codes.
• Offer strong warranties for their solar panels. The inverter for instance should last for decade at least and the panels themselves should last for at least 2 decades.
• Provide a couple of references from satisfied customers
• Provide a license and a clean track record. If the Better Business Bureau has some complaints on the solar installer you choose to hire, it might be better to look elsewhere.
• Does its own installation rather than hire contractors. That way you will know that they will take full accountability for your solar panels.
Most solar installers begin projects by taking care of some basic tasks such as installing necessary support structures, putting PV panels or shingles in place etc. Once the panels are set in place properly, experienced installers get to work connecting all of the electrical components. They should also be responsible for checking all electrical systems to ensure wiring was done correctly, check grounding, polarity and the integrity of the terminations. Needles to say you shouldn’t have to ask for routine maintenance work from them. The solar installers you decide to hire should mention this in your agreement.
Project considerations
This might be obvious, but whether you decide to have the solar panels placed on the roof or the ground, the location should receive direct sunlight. The supply should be at its strongest between 10 am and 2 pm for the system to work efficiently. Your solar installer should know this already along with the fact that trees, tall structures and even a chimney can comprise panel effectiveness.
The type of panels you choose will have a large impact on the amount of energy you will receive on a daily basis. Some can react well to shadows while others can shut down completely. Your solar installers should give you options that can ensure you receive maximum benefit from your green energy initiative. This includes letting you know exactly how many panels you will need and how big or small they can be to remain efficient.
Sunlight is a viable and green source of energy and solar installers know how to take advantage of this. Choose one who gives your needs top priority and you won’t see money go down the drain.