Understanding Solar Panel Parts

Buying a solar panel system is a wise move financially and for the environment. It's good know the inner workings your solar system with the network. Here’s a brief article of the components and functions of your solar system; the power inverter, switch, and battery.

Solar mounting systems include hardware to affix the array to either a roof, a pole, or the ground. They’re made of aluminum, based on the particular model, number of modules and the physical configuration. Panels work best at cooler temperatures, and proper mounting allows for cooling airflow around the modules.

Wind loading is an installation variable, and it’s crucial to design and pour the cement foundation properly for any pole mount. A solar array on a tracker will harvest more energy than a fixed array. Trackers are often used in water pumping applications.

Solar Panel Setup

Your solar panel setup has a minimum of 1 inverter connected through wiring to the solar panels. The intention of an inverter is to convert direct current (DC) electricity created to alternating current (AC) for your residences use. There’s several inverter technologies available; string, power optimizers, and microinverters. One inverter solution maybe more suitable than others based on your solar system’s set up.

String inverters is the most economical choice yet power optimizers and microinverters highly preferred for panels facing multiple directions or experience marginal shading. This allows the system to produce the most efficiently. If you choose a microinverter solution, the inverters will be at the panel site. If you install a power optimizer or a string system, your inverter will be at ground level.

Its common to have an inverter on the outside of building so servicing is easier and to keep up with possible codes. The inverter is also connected to your existing electrical system through the breaker box. Sometimes electric panels will need upgrades prior to installing because of the increase in amperage of energy.

Most solar systems have 2 disconnect switches that turns off the solar panel system. Although disconnect switches aren’t typically used in the lifetime of a solar panel system, it’s mandatory for safety reasons. Solar installers apply the disconnect switch to do repairs or maintenance.

Options

Batteries are popular to install with solar panel systems. Some building owners use batteries in network systems for delivering back up power or to use power when going off the network. If you’re installing a grid-tied system, rarely experience power outages, have a favorable net metering policy and don’t deal with time-variant electricity pricing, then buying a solar battery isn’t necessary.

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