Exploring the Parts of a Solar System and Getting Those Parts Installed

You may be ready to go solar, but you aren’t yet done researching the in’s and out’s of solar and how to install all these different parts. In this blog, we will look at all the different parts that a solar system is composed of, as well as how each of these various parts is installed. You will learn exactly what you’ll need to install when you get your first solar panel system, and you will learn how your solar company will install these parts, that way you aren’t in the dark after they leave with no idea how to assess your system if you ever encounter any issues (knock on wood).

What Exactly a Solar Panel System Is

The standard solar power systems is a congregation of specific parts. The normal set-up consists of an array of solar panels (or modules) that are made with either monocrystalline, polycrystalline, or thin-film panels, mounts or racks, and an inverter with a controller. The inverter is especially crucial as solar panels generate DC electricity from the suns rays through the solar panels, and then it turns that current into AC electricity. AC is the kind of electricity we use in our homes. The internal computer brained controller regulates the solar power system for peak performance throughout the day.

How Solar Panels are Installed on Your Home

The roof is the best location for solar panel installation because it usually offers the best access to the most amount of sunlight. It usually already has the architectural specs that the solar panels need. Along with mounting hardware and proper flashings, the panels will get up there in no time flat. However, If the roof is not applicable due to design or material, other options are available. These solar installation options include shade awnings or ground-mounts. A ground-mount is ideal if your roof isn’t facing the north and if it has a lot of shade.

How Inverters are Installed in Your Home

The inverter is often placed near the main panel and is usually indoors, but sometimes, it is installed outside. Since it is made with solid-state electronics, it may overheat, so the inverter should be installed out of the sun’s direct lighting if possible. This is also the component that’s most prone to damages, so if you notice something is wrong with your solar panel system, this is the first place to check.

Making Sure Your System Runs Smoothly

Keeping an eye on things is always smart, and it’s especially easy with your solar panel system, because they don’t need a whole lot of maintenance. Getting a solar system monitoring system can help you remotely view your system’s performance through your computer or even remotely on wireless devices. You should also call up your solar company once a year to do an inspection and ensure everything is working how it’s supposed to be.

Considering a Battery Backup System

Another option you might want to consider is a battery backup system. This can help keep the clean solar energy flowing back into your household regardless of time of day. Battery banks storage areas will range in size depending on power loads but usually requires 10-20 sq. ft. and may need venting because of the gases they emit. With a battery backup system, you’ll also be able to store extra energy to sell back to your utility company if you have the option of net metering.

Want to learn more about how to take the leap to solar? Check out the HahaSmart blog!

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