08 May Common Problems with Solar Panel Installation
In antiquity, people worshiped the sun as a great giver of life. Today, we embrace it for many reasons—including its ability to generate affordable energy. Here are just a few of the perks that solar energy offers:
Affordable. Solar energy is very cost effective. It doesn’t take long to pay for your initial investment in solar panels, and some people even make money by selling their excess electricity back to the power company.
User-friendly. Installing solar panels is not difficult. In fact, some people with technical backgrounds even sidestep professional installers and do it themselves.
Reliable. As long as your home or building is deemed to be a good candidate for solar energy (depending on roof, climate in your area, etc.) you can count on the sun to be a steady source of energy.
Environmentally friendly. We degrade our environment by depleting natural resources and polluting the air, but we can’t keep being careless or we (and future generations) will suffer. As people look for ways to “go green” and protect the earth, solar provides an excellent option.
If you’re interested in going solar, you will need to consider your electricity needs and the costs of solar panels to meet your usage requirements. If you’re on the fence about solar, a SunFacts report can help you make an educated decision about whether or not solar power is right for you. If you decide to move forward with installation and purchase panels, you can then seek out a qualified professional installer.
After the installation, most people don’t have to worry about their solar system—it simply runs on its own. But sometimes there are complications with installation that can cause problems down the line. Here are just a few of those challenges that can wreak havoc if they are not addressed immediately.
1. Water leaks
Rooftop installation provides a great way to harness the strength of the sun, but it can result in roof penetrations that lead to leaks down the line. If panels are poorly installed, you could end up with holes or fissures in your roof that will result in leaks in the event of a heavy downpour. Ensure that there are no gaps in your roof after installation. If you experience problems, have the installation company address them immediately.
2. Poor racking
Solar panels are installed through photovoltaic mounting systems, also called solar module racking. But if your panels aren’t racked properly, they will not stay in place. All bolts must be tightened securely, and the installation must meet industry standards. Your panels can take a beating, so if they aren’t sufficiently anchored, they probably won’t last.
3. Substandard electrical work
If panels are mounted with insufficient insulation and poor wiring, you could end up with a fire that will destroy your home. Make sure that the electrical work is done by a professional with extensive experience in the field.
4. Insufficient solar exposure
Solar panels must take in heat energy from the sun and convert it into electrical energy. To accomplish this, the panels must be installed at the optimal angles. A professional can help guide this process so that you are getting maximum benefit from your panels.
One thing that people love about solar panels is that they are not much work. You should be able to have them installed and then move forward without spending a lot of time maintaining them. Installation issues, however, can turn them into a high-maintenance affair.
If you install your panels yourself, make sure that you know exactly what you are doing. If you lack the ability, defer to the professionals. Make sure that they guarantee their work. At the first sign of trouble, contact them to service your panels before the problem gets any worse.