Solar Panel Installation Guide

Aug 21

A well-constructed plan with safety measures is the key to a successful solar panel installation project.

There are several things you can do to ensure that the entire solar installation process runs smoothly. These are:

You can purchase materials (wiring, tools, etc.), that are not part of your shipment.
Stay organized even when you're unboxing your system
To ensure that nothing is missing or damaged, inspect your shipment.
Safety guidelines for installing your system

Solar Energy Apparatus

You need to know all the factors before installing solar panels. Additional equipment and materials are available to help you install solar panels. Moreover, you can also visit the solar company in reno for satisfaction installation of your solar system.

Wiring

The electric wiring diagram will show you the dimensions and lengths of the wires required for your project. To source materials at your local hardware store, ask for a copy your wiring diagram.

Junction Boxes & Splices

Use insulated lugs (or other approved splicing device)
All junction boxes and splice boxes must comply with the voltage and amperage requirements of the circuit they are a part of.
Outdoor boxes should be rated for outdoor use.
Ground splices usually require an irreversible connection.

Example: An irreversible splice.

AC Breakers and Sub-Panels

AC breakers can be used to import/export AC power from the equipment.
There are many mounting options for circuit breakers. For a complete list, check your AC breaker panel.
Sub-panels can be used to combine AC solar panels. Sub-panels don't allow load breakers to fit inside.
AC sub-panels should be large enough to accommodate the output from solar circuits.

AC Disconnects & Fuses

A lockable safety disconnect is required for most systems.
An AC Disconnect is required for a conventional connection that back feeds to the grid. This part may be included in your system. Please check the parts list on your order form.
A fused manual AC disconnection is required for a line-side tap connection. The circuit is protected from overcurrent damage by the fusing.
AC disconnects should be installed outside, usually within 10 feet of the primary billing meter.

PV Meters

Your utility might require a dedicated PV Meter to measure the production of your solar array if it is grid-tied.
You will only need to place the base or socket of your meter. Once you have been approved to activate your system, the utility company will install it.

Conduits & Meters

NEC (National Electric Code), requires that solar wiring be converted to conduit before it leaves the array. Unless otherwise stated, EMT (electrical metal tubing) is required.
If necessary, you can use a larger conduit to allow conductors to pass through. You should never use less conduit than is specified in your plans.

Mounting Materials

Ground Mounting

Ground mounting requires concrete, form bracing, and 2- or 3-inch of mechanical tubing. These materials can be expensive to ship so it is cheaper to get them locally. The racking report will show the total length of the pipe and the number of cubic yards of concrete needed for the project.

Roof Mounting

Purchase several tubes of roof sealant to protect your roof from wind damage and prevent leaks. You should make sure that the sealant you choose is suitable for your roof material.

Example: Henry roof sealant. Select a sealant that will work with your roof material.

Unboxing

Unbound Solar will accept shipping claims within 24 hours of your system arriving. To check for any damage or missing parts, unpack your system as soon as it arrives.

You will need a place that is clean and open where you can inspect your equipment.
Label any parts that aren't needed in a bag and seal them.
To verify that everything is in the shipment, compare it with the packing list.
Take photos of any damaged or missing items and contact Unbound Solar immediately.
Place batteries on a charger immediately if you don't intend to install them right away. If batteries are left uncharged for too long, they can become deadly.
Keep any documentation that you purchased micro-inverters and power optimizers with stickers or QR codes. These can be used later to create an array map so that you know which panel controls which unit.

Installation can be made easier by staying organized when unboxing.

Solar Installer maintenance

The wiring of your electrical run is an essential part of any solar system. However, the details will vary depending on which type of system you are installing. This section will show you how to design your wiring run, ground it, and connect it to the utility grid and reno solar experts are always here to help and guide you.

Wiring and Electricity

The wiring management aspect of solar panel installations is often overlooked but it will make them easier. These are some tips to remember:

It is important to plan the wiring runs in advance so that the wires do not interfere with the array's access.
Wire clips are used to hold the factory wire leads securely in place.
Spring clamps are used in many solar components. To open the terminal, push down on a bar or another mechanism. After the wire has been seated securely, you can release the spring that holds the wire in place.
Reno solar experts offer a detailed solar installation guide that will show you how to wire your solar panels.

Solar Installation Safety Guide

For safety reasons, you can use our solar panel installation guide to ensure your safety and that of others during the entire process. Otherwise, you should choose the best solar installation company for that purpose.

Protective Equipment

Solar equipment can cause burns, puncture wounds, cuts, scraps, and lacerations. Make sure you have the right equipment and take breaks to avoid fatigue.

Always wear eye protection, gloves, closed-toe boots, and a hat.
Take out all metal jewelry, even watches.
Mixing concrete should be done with long sleeves to prevent skin burns. For roof work, use a safety harness and roof anchor.

Fall Protection (Roof Mounts).

Fall protection is necessary when installing a roof-mount roof system.

Roof anchors should be installed
Attach a safety harness to the anchor whenever you're on the roof.
Flat soled boots that are roof-ready can be used to grip metal, tiles, and shingles.
Rent scaffolding or a boom-lift to make it easy for equipment and people to reach high places.
Weather conditions can make roof work temporarily unsafe.

Super Anchor offers a safety harness that provides additional protection for roof workers.

Dig Safety (Ground Mounts).

Even if you are planted on the ground, there is still danger. Be sure to observe these safety precautions if you are ground mounting your panels.

To avoid digging into buried gas lines or electric lines, contact the local authority before you start any digging.
Concrete trucks should not be driven over drainage or septic lines.
Low-hanging power lines or telephone lines
Avoid contact with concrete wet, as it can cause severe burns to the skin. Use gloves, eye protection, long sleeves.
To avoid breathing in harmful chemicals, use a N-95 respirator mask when you mix concrete.
You can get training or an experienced operator on the job if you are using heavy equipment.

Electrical Safety

Take out all metal jewelry, even watches.
A multimeter is a good tool to have on hand. Before proceeding, make sure to check conductors or terminators for zero volts.
Use a torque wrench/driver to ensure that all wires have been stripped and/or terminated correctly.
Avoid sharp edges and pinch points, which could cause damage to the wire.

Heavy Lift Safety

Before you lift, plan your lift. Know where and what you're moving.
To avoid any accidents, have two or more people hold panels in heavy winds.
Make sure you have a stable footing.
Squat with your legs, not your back.
Do not twist while lifting weights and stay close to your body.
Ask for help whenever you need it, and wait until you are needed. You should not attempt to lift anything alone if you are unsure.
If you need to lift heavy equipment, use a crane or hoist.