How to Install Solar Energy Panels

Solar energy is an excellent way to save money and invest in a reliable source of renewable energy. Solar panels are arrays of photovoltaic cells that trap the renewable energy from the sun. Installing solar energy panels has become a popular way of powering both homes and businesses. While there are a number of steps to install solar energy panels successfully, it isn't too hard for the average do-it-yourself enthusiast.

Things You'll Need

• Solar panel mounts (roof-ground, flush or pole mounts)
• Chalk line or laser sight
• Stud finder
• Drill with pilot bit
• Lag bolts
• Metal flashing
• Metal rails
• 3/8-inch stainless steel bolts
• Converter
• Solar panel conduit

Instructions

Solar Energy Panel Set-up

1. Purchase your solar energy panels from reputable solar panel retailers. Be sure to check various solar stores and prices, as well as read reviews, in order to select the best value for money.

2. Read the instructions manual that comes with your solar panels carefully. This instructions manual will be a detailed guide on how to properly install and set up the panels for the manufacturer you have chosen.

3. Choose where you want to mount your solar energy panels. Typically they should be installed on roof-tops, building tops, in a garden as a stand-alone, or anywhere with uninhibited access to direct sunlight.

4. Choose and purchase the solar panel mounts you want to use. There are three varieties: roof-ground mounts, flush mounts and pole mounts.

5. Mark straight lines for where you will install your mounts by using a chalk line or laser sight.

Installing Solar Panels

1. Find the roof's rafters with a stud finder and align mounts on the top of your roof's rafters.

2. Pre-drill your mounting holes with a pilot bit to help avoid splitting the rafters and then drill and secure the mounts fully to the top of the roof with lag bolts, placing metal flashing over the mounts to prevent leakage in your roof.

3. Secure metal rails over the posts with stainless steel bolts that are 3/8 inch.

4. Install the solar energy panels along the rails, connecting the panels together by opening the junction box on the back of each panel and connecting the panels until you reach the final panel.

5. Run the wires from the final solar energy panel to a separate junction box and run a conduit from the solar panels to the converter in your house. Close the junction boxes.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when purchasing material online. Only use reputable retailers.

• Use safety ropes, protective eye goggles, harness and gloves.

• Keep in mind that manufacturers have their own hardware, specifically designed for their own panels, so you should read the instruction manual carefully to ensure you are connecting and installing the solar panels correctly.

• Ensure the solar panels and the racking system are grounded in accordance with local electrical codes.

References

• Solar Panel Manual
• Solar Expert
• Solar Panel Info

Resources

• PV Power