Common Mistakes When Installing Solar Panels (And How to Avoid Them)
No doubt, solar energy is one of the best ways we can easily reduce the cost of electricity and also increase how much we depend on our own generated power.
However, we should also know that installing solar panels is a very big investment, and any mistakes we make during installation are definitely going to reduce efficiency, as well as increase cost or even lead to system failure if not managed very properly.
We’re very committed to providing valuable information on topics like this that could ruin your investment, so in this blog post, we are going to discuss some of the most common mistakes most people do make when installing solar panels.
We’ll also give you ideas on how you can avoid making any of these mistakes.
1. Choosing the Wrong Location
Placing the solar panels in a spot that doesn’t really receive enough sunlight is probably one of the biggest mistakes most homeowners and businesses do make when installing solar. You should know that solar panels need to be exposed maximally to the sunlight before they’re able to generate sufficient electricity.
How to Avoid This Mistake
Before you begin your installation process, first of all, assess your roof or the property you want to install on. Try and identify the areas that have the most sunlight throughout the day.
Make sure you avoid any place that is always shaded by trees, buildings, or any kind of obstruction. It’s better you also consider professional advice from solar experts.
They might be in the right position to tell you the best location for the installation to be carried out.
2. Incorrect Panel Angle and Orientation
Another situation that is really going to affect how well your panels perform is the angle and direction of the solar panels.
If they happen not to be positioned very well, then they won’t be able to get enough sunlight, which means there’s inevitably going to be low energy production.
How to Avoid This Mistake
In Nigeria, as well as most parts of the world, it has been proven that solar panels that face south tend to have more sun exposure.
So the angle of your panel is expected to match the latitude of your location. This will help to get maximum efficiency. If you don’t know how to angle very well, then it won’t be bad to consult a solar technician. They can help you to calculate the best angle for your region.
3. Ignoring Roof Condition Before Installation
A lot of people out there do install their solar panels without really checking if their roof is strong enough to support them.
If your roof happens to be weak or damaged, there is every likelihood that it may require repairs or even collapse after the installation is complete.
This can inevitably lead to you spending more money that would have been totally avoided.
How to Avoid This Mistake
To avoid this mistake, you will need to perform a thorough inspection of your roof before installation. That way, you will know if your roof is in good condition for the installation.
If necessary, you should repair or reinforce your roof before you begin to mount the solar panels. If your roof is old, you should consider replacing it totally.
This will help you avoid any further issues that might arise as a result of weak roofing.
4. Using Low-Quality Solar Panels and Equipment
Lots of people who install solar systems in their homes always prefer cheap and low-quality solar panels and inverters just to save more money.
While it’s good that you are able to save money, you should also know that buying low-quality equipment can easily lead to very poor performance.
You are going to be faced with frequent breakdowns, and then the lifespan of these projects tends to be shorter when compared to high-quality solar installation.
How to Avoid This Mistake
You should be able to buy from solar brands and suppliers like Arenahub’s solution that has a very good reputation. Always check out customer reviews as well as their ratings before you make any purchases.
You can also consult professionals that will help to choose the best quality solar panels and accessories that are still within your budget.
READ ALSO: Complete Solar System Price For a 3 Bedroom Flat
5. Incorrect Wiring and Electrical Connections
Not wiring correctly is another solar installation problem most people encounter. Improper wiring can lead to inefficiency and even fire hazards in most situations. Some do-it-yourself installers or unqualified technicians tend to make errors while wiring. This can inevitably lead to damages that, if not properly managed, could raise questions about safety risks.
How to Avoid This Mistake
To avoid this mistake, you should only hire a certified electrician or a professional solar installer to help you handle the wiring. Make sure that all the connections are well insulated. You should also carry out a thorough inspection after the installation so that you can easily detect any issues early.
6. Not Considering Future Increase in Energy
A lot of people do install solar panels based on the amount of energy they consume at the moment. However, you should know that the amount of energy you consume usually increases as time goes on. This could be because of adding new appliances or new family members coming in.
How to Avoid This Mistake
When designing your solar system, you should have at the back of your mind that you might be in need of more energy sometime in the future.
In effect to this, you need to install a larger system that is more than you need currently.
This will help to accommodate you in the future in case of more energy consumption. If possible, simply choose any solar system that can allow you to easily expand in the future.
7. Poor Battery Storage Placement
If your solar system is making use of a battery system, where you place your battery really matters. If your battery is exposed to extreme temperatures, it can reduce its lifespan and efficiency.
How to Avoid This Mistake
Make sure you keep your batteries in a cool and dry place that is well-ventilated. Do not place them directly in the sunlight or in areas that are extremely hot or cold. Always check your battery health frequently to see if they are in very good condition.
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