There are many considerations solar contractors must make when installing solar panels. For instance, the number & type of solar panels, the type of inverter, and the mounting system they will use all affect the installation process. Each of these will affect the efficiency and longevity of the system as a whole, and giving customers the best ratio of money-to-quality is essential.
As a result, installing solar panels is more often a matter of selection than it is the process itself. However, this means that learning about each of these facets of the operation can prove beneficial in and of itself.
Solar Contractor Considerations for Installation
The Number of Solar Panels
One of the most common conversations surrounding solar power systems is about kWh, or kilowatt-hours. The kWh is the measure of electricity that your system will use or produce. Therefore, it will affect the number of panels that you need. First, you must calculate the amount of energy that your home will need to run, and then how much extra power your solar system will need to generate.
It may sound unnecessary to install extra solar panels if the number meets the needs of your power consumption. However, you must understand the variable needs of your electrical system depending on the season. In the winter months, solar energy is weaker, and you need more panels to gather the same amount of energy.
The Type of Solar Panel
The type of solar panel is also a part of the installation process. Generally, there are two types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. There are many similarities between these two products, such as their base material being silicon and the process they use to generate and convert solar power into electricity.
However, the critical difference between them is the construction of the silicon crystals. Solar contractors would refer to monocrystalline panels as the more expensive product because of their single crystal nature. This gives them greater efficiency, but it’s also more challenging to produce this type of panel. Conversely, monocrystalline panels suffer in efficiency, but make up for it with better prices.
The Type of Inverter
The solar power generated from solar panels is not compatible with modern electrical systems because it is DC energy. However, with the help of an inverter, the electricity is changed into AC. And then, it is set at a voltage usable in most electrical applications. This inverter, similar to the type of solar panel, is set into two distinct product categories.
The first type is string inverters. These inverters connect to each solar panel, and all the solar power moves through them. Conversely, microinverters are responsible for a single solar panel, and each one connects directly to the energy grid. Naturally, microinverters will be more cost-prohibitive than string inverters due to the sheer amount, but they will also be more efficient. They can also reduce energy loss in your system.
However, it is worth noting that the inefficiency of string inverters can be mitigated by adding power optimizers. These devices provide a metered DC current that conditions and cleans the power to match the power grid. In some instances, the installation of string inverters must include power optimizers, which will make the cost greater than installing microinverters.
The Mounting System
Finally, the mounting system will affect the installation of your solar power system. We have previously discussed the differences between ground and roof mounting options, but they are not the only consideration. You will also need to determine the cost of a particular manufacturer’s product and the angle of installation that your system will need.
Get the Facts From a Solar Contractor
In conclusion, we are only scratching the surface of how to install solar panels. There are still many other facets of the process, such as the direction your roof faces, whether or not you will need a battery system, and how you can benefit from connecting to the power grid. Ultimately, the best way to learn about the process is through a friendly conversation with a knowledgeable professional.
Empower Energy Corp is here to provide people in Western Canada with top-tier solar PV solutions. Having installed over 1.3 million watts of solar power, our reputation speaks for itself. Contact our solar power company today at 1 (780) 532-3610 in Alberta and (250) 718-7282 in British Columbia.
