How to Put in Solar Energy

Solar energy can help lower your electrical bills.

Environmentally friendly, solar energy is a viable option to either support current electrical supply or to fill electrical needs completely. Some homeowners choose to install the panels themselves, saving the money that they otherwise would have had to pay for installation. Unless you have extensive electrical experience, it is recommended that a professional electrician connects the panels to your electrical system. Since solar panels are usually mounted on the roof of the home, proper safety should be practiced.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Stud finder
• Chalk line
• Installation kit
• Drill and bits
• Solar panels

Instructions

1. 

   Make sure tree branches do not block the sun on your roof.

   Determine the layout on your roof for the solar panels. Panels should be located so they receive the maximum amount of sunlight, with no obstructions. Usually, this means the south or southwest-facing portion of the roof, with nothing, such as tree branches, to block the sun.

2. Use the stud finder to locate the rafters of your roof. The rafters will provide a solid anchoring point for your panels. Mark the rafters and use a chalk line so the mounts will be attached in a straight line.

3. Install the mounts that come in the installation kit. These mounts usually hold rails that the panels attach to. The mounts get attached to the rafters that were previously located. Drill pilot holes with a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screws included with the kit. Then attach the mount with the provided screws using the pilot holes.

4. Secure the metal rails from the kit to the mounts with the bolts that are also included in the kit. Once the rails are securely fastened, the panels can be mounted.

5. Have an electrician come out and connect the solar panel arrays to the electrical supply for the house. Then attach and secure the solar panels into place on the rails with the provided hardware.

Tips & Warnings

• It is helpful to have an assistant for this project.

• Check with the local building and planning department to find out what the regulations are in your area for installing solar power. They will also let you know about any permits that are required.

• Use a safety harness for working on pitched roofs.

References

• Solar Expert: Install Solar Panels
• Energy Savers: Active Solar Heating