The solar panel installation process is an exciting step to take toward being energy-independent and saving utility bills. Proper preparation will make the entire process both smooth and efficient. This ensures that from day one, your new solar system is working as efficiently as possible. This detailed checklist will walk you through what you need to do to prepare your home and property for the installation of solar panels.
Understand your energy needs
Before starting the installation process, analyze your energy consumption at present. Understand how much energy your household is consuming in order to understand what size of a solar system would work for you. You can use past utility bills to find out average monthly consumption or hire a professional for a more advanced energy audit.
Consider the condition of your roof
Your roof is a critical aspect in the installment of solar. Here are some of the ideas on how to ensure it is in good condition:
- Inspection for Damages: First, inspect the roof for any visible damages like missing shingles, leaks, or even cracks. Any strange thing that you notice should be repaired beforehand to avoid complications.
- Consider Roof Age: Contemplate the installation of solar panels when your roof is near its life expectancy of less than 20-25 years for asphalt shingles. That way, you can minimize further disruption and lay a good foundation for the new system.
- Roof Orientation and Pitch Assessment: The south-facing roof surfaces commonly take in the most sunlight, but other orientations are also quite suitable, such as east or west. This is because an ideal pitched roof, for putting mounted solar panels on, would need to be between 15-40 degrees; an expert solar panel installation professional can accommodate mounting related adjustments for other angles.
Clear the Obstacles
Remove everything from your roof which can interfere in placing the solar panels or causing shading:
- Prune Overhanging Trees: Trim back branches that would shade your panels or deposit leaves, which degrade efficiency.
- Clean the Roof: The roof should not have any debris like leaves, dirt, or twigs that could affect the installation process.
- Antennas and Satellite Dishes: Move or clear these to give room for more solar panels to be fitted and have maximum exposure to sunlight.
Review Local Permitting Requirements
Before installation, get your city’s permission and permits for adding solar panels to your home. Quite a few good solar panel companies, like Sun Up Zero Down, handle the permitting, but it is good to know what your city and town requires. Some primary permits might include:
- Building Permits: These show that the structure is appropriate to install.
- Electrical Permits: These indicate that the electrical work has been done safely and according to code.
- Zoning Permits: Some local zoning laws can determine where on a property solar panels may be installed.
Review Your HOA Agreement
If you’re part of an HOA, then review your HOA agreement for any rules on the installation of solar panels in your neighborhood. For instance, some HOAs have specific restrictions on appearance, placement, and installation type, all of which could make a difference in how the solar panels should be mounted. Make this an early conversation with your HOA to prevent delays and ensure that any new installations are within community standards.
Clear Your Attic or Storage Area
Solar installations require access to your attic or storage areas where the inverter may be located, a battery system, or other components. Clear this space free and accessible by:
- Clearing Clutter: Clearly create a path to the attic or any specifically designated storage space for ease of movement with equipment by technicians.
- Ensuring Ventilation: Proper ventilation in the attic is important to maintain equipment performance and safety.
Coordinate with Utility Company
Contact your utility company to understand how the solar energy will connect to the grid. This will also include information about net metering, where excess energy that may be created by your solar panels is credited to your account.
- Schedule a Grid Connection: Make sure your utility company is prepared to connect your new system to the grid on installation day.
- Learn About Metering Upgrades: You might need a new meter, depending on your current one, since not all meters can support two-way flow of electricity.
Plan for Installation Day Logistics
Among these, some pragmatic arrangements would go a long way to ensure a seamless installation day. This will involve clearing:
- Driveways and Walkways: Make sure the installation crew has easy access to your property by making sure that the driveway and any pathways leading to where they need to reach are clear.
- Keep Pets and Kids Inside: For safety, it would be best to keep pets and kids indoors or away from the work area during installation.
- Be Available: You don’t have to be hands-on through the process, but it’s good that you are around should installers have questions or need access to areas of your house.
System Maintenance Requirements
Once you’ve installed solar panels, here’s how you maintain them at peak performance:
- Schedule Regular Cleaning: This shall keep the panels clean of dust, debris, and bird droppings that could reduce efficiency. Your solar panels will run at maximum efficiency when cleaned on a regular basis.
- Monitor Energy Output: Use the monitoring system your installer has installed to monitor energy production and head off possible problems before they arise.
Work with a Reputable Solar Company
The most important part of the preparation process includes choosing the right trusted solar installation company. A more experienced company, like Sun Up Zero Down, will give you better and more detailed assessments, handle permits, and make quality installations that maximize efficiency and savings.
Ready to Go Solar?
Your preparation for the installation of solar panels represents a very important milestone towards successful transition to renewable energy. This checklist will fully get you ready to reap all the benefits that a solar-powered residence has to offer. Our team is ready to answer any questions you may have about going solar in New Jersey.