Solar Installation Components
Solar power systems are the most popular option for renewable energy enthusiasts. The main reason being it’s low maintenance costs and a long lifetime of the different components. Since there are few moving parts and few chances of mechanical failure, most solar systems will continue to provide power for 30 years.
The Photovoltaic Panels – Solar Panels
Solar panels are the part of your solar electric system that collects the sun’s rays and converts them into electricity. These panels are made of slices of silicon crystals called cells, aluminum frames, glass, and a polymer backing. These solar panels come in different shapes, sizes, and types.
The “size” of a solar panel usually refers to its rated output. Solar panels also come with different voltage ratings. Solar panels with a voltage rating of 24 or 12 volts are the best for use in off-grid systems that have battery banks. Other solar panels have voltage ratings of 60, 18, and 42 volts. These panels are usually used in grid-tied networks so that they can accommodate the inverters used in grid-tied setups.
A solar panel can be used with other panels or on its own to achieve the required electricity generation. The price of most panels used in residential and commercial systems is between $2 and $4 per watt.
The Solar Mounting System
It is the hardware used to fix the panels either to the roof, ground or on a pole. The mounting systems are usually made of aluminium and are designed to hold the panels in place for decades. They work best when they are cool and when mounted correctly, it allows the air to flow around the panels and cool them.
In all instances, wind loading is factored in during installation. It is especially so for pole mounts. The cement foundation needs to be carefully designed and poured if it is to hold the panels in place for decades. Some mounts come with the option to move the panels around to increase the energy production.
Mounts with a solar tracker will help the panels produce more power than a fixed system. However, trackers come with the risk of breakdown, and they cost a lot. Thus, they are recommended for the technically inclined. They could also significantly increase the solar servicing costs.
The price on mounting systems varies depending on the modules needed and the type of mount. Costs of mounting systems are between $250 and $1,000 for fixed systems and $2,000 for those with solar trackers.
Solar String Fusing & Combiner Box’s
This essential component of solar systems is often overlooked. This particular box allows multiple panels to be connected in parallel. For instance, if you want a pair of 24-volt panels to feed power to your 24-volt system, you will wire the output inside the junction box. From that box, you can then run just one positive and one negative wire to the next component.
The box will also contain circuit breakers. These boxes can be placed outside right next to the panels. Most combiner boxes cost between $80 and $140.
Shading Tests
Even if your solar panels are in optimal condition, they cannot perform well if they are blocked by shade. Our professionals will perform tests to ensure that your panels remain unobstructed throughout the day.
If our calculations show any possible issues of shadowing or blockage, we will let you know and make assessments to help you decide what your best options are for getting rid of any materials that could cause an issue.
Fire Prevention and Upholding Electrical Regulations
When a solar power system is installed correctly, it is safe and poses no danger to your home. However, if any part of your system is not up to regulation, it can interfere with proper ventilation or put you at risk of an electrical fire. This can happen through normal wear and tear or through negligence during the initial installation. When we inspect your system, we will also be checking to ensure that every component meets the most current electrical regulations and is not a fire risk. If we find anything out of compliance, we will inform you and address the issue.
Proactive Solar Maintenance
Even if you cannot see any visible signs of wear and tear, or you feel certain that your solar energy system is working well, you should still schedule periodic routine maintenance. By doing so, you will be able to not only stay ahead of any potential problems but also have total assurance that your system is working safely and optimally.
Consulting the professionals is absolutely vital for proper maintenance. Regardless of how handy or knowledgeable you may be, performing any type of repairs or maintenance on your own can be a dangerous situation.
If you’re concerned that your solar power system may not be in the best shape, or you simply want to schedule a routine solar servicing consultation, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We offer scheduled payment plans to keep our rates affordable for everyone.