You’ve convinced yourself that you need solar panels. Maybe it’s because you want to reduce your carbon footprint or because you’re hoping to save some money.
If you want to decrease your energy bills and become more aware of environmental issues, you might want to install solar panels. However, for a solar panel system to work, it needs to be installed properly by a reputable company.
In other words, you need someone who knows what they’re doing. So the question remains, how long does it take to install solar panels?
Now you’re wondering, how long does it take to install solar panels? Keep reading below.
Evaluating Existing Energy Needs to Determine System Size
Installing solar panels is a complex process that requires a thorough evaluation of existing energy needs to determine the size and scope of the system to be used. Based on the size of the solar panel array and other factors, the process can take anywhere from one to several days.
The first step is to calculate energy needs by looking at past energy usage, expected energy usage over the lifetime of the system, and the type of equipment that needs to be used. This will help inform the number of solar panels, inverters, and other components needed to generate the desired energy output.
The installation itself can involve placing the solar panels onto roofs or into the ground and wiring the required components. Depending on the scope of installation, this process can take anywhere from one day to several days. It is important to consider the energy needs of a building to determine the system size and the duration of the installation.
Assessing the Quality of the Roof and Mounting Frames
The quality of the roof and mounting frames have to be assessed when installing solar panels. As they both play an important role in the longevity and efficiency of solar panels. This assessment usually begins with a survey of the roof and structures.
This allows a contractor to check for any potential problems with the roof or mounting frame implications. And ensure that the roof and frames can handle the weight of the solar panels. Assessment of the roof typically includes the age, type of roof material, roof slope, and condition of the roof.
The mounts will be assessed for their strength and compatibility with the type and size of solar panels. The entire job, from assessment to installation, can take anywhere between 1 to 3 days.
It will depend on the scale of the installation. To get information, Blueravensolar.com provides a comprehensive list of services regarding Fayetteville’s installation of solar panels and is ready to help you through the entire installation process.
Laying Wiring, Positioning, and Mounting the Panels
Installation of solar panels is a complex yet relatively simple process, taking an average of 6-8 hours depending on the size of the system. The largest chunk of the time investment is dedicated to the wiring and positioning of the panels.
This requires the solar installer or contractor to mount the solar arrays in the correct position. To maximize their effectiveness depending on the customer’s geographic location.
Electricians must connect the panels to the electrical system, lay the proper wire in the customer’s attic, and install all associated moving parts. This includes securing inverters, net meters, and other components.
Additional time is required to upgrade the solar power system to ensure the safety and functionality of the entire system. If all the pieces are in place, properly installed, and configured. The job can be completed in a day depending on the intricacy of the project.
Connecting the System to the Main Electrical Grid
Connecting the solar panel system to the main electrical grid typically takes between 2-4 days. The process begins with making sure the solar panel location is suitable and that all state and municipal requirements have been met. Next, the solar installer will work with local utility companies to obtain the necessary permissions for the connection.
Finally, the solar professional will make all the necessary connections between the home and the utility grid. Make sure the system is properly grounded, proper voltage is achieved, and all safety regulations are met.
Once the system is installed, the utility company will do a final inspection to make sure the system is connected safely. Following the inspection, the solar panel system is then connected to the main electrical grid and can begin producing clean energy.
Calibrating the New System
Installing solar panels is a process consisting of several steps. Before the installation process can even begin, the solar system must first be carefully calibrated. This is essential to ensure that the system will work as intended.
Calibrating a new system typically takes two to three days, depending on the complexity of the system and the local conditions. During the calibration process, the solar panels are programmed to create the desired power output, along with the appropriate safety adjustments. The solar companies will also use their own specially designed test instruments to evaluate the system’s performance.
Finally, once the system is calibrated and found to be safe and reliable. The installers will begin mounting the photovoltaic panels on the rooftop or other desired areas as per the customer’s design.
The entire installation process should take approximately one to three days. Depending on the size of the system and the number of panels being installed.
Understanding the Process to Install Solar Panels
Ultimately, the time it takes to install solar panels varies depending on the size of your system and other factors. On average, it takes from 1 to 2 days to install a 5kW system, and most small- to medium-sized residential systems can be completed within a few weeks.
If you’re ready to power your home with solar energy, get in touch with a qualified professional today and begin your energy-saving journey!
Want to learn more about solar energy? Take a look at our other articles to learn everything there is to know about installing solar panels!
