Photovoltaic Installation

Solar power is one of the most used sources of renewable energy to power homes. Photovoltaic panels are one of the most common type of solar power equipment: they capture sunlight during the day and convert it into electricity. In order for them to work properly, it�s crucial to carry out a careful photovoltaic installation that requires some knowledge and, ideally, some training.

First of all, let�s have a look at the basics of photovoltaic installation. Solar panels usually are installed on rooftops, on the top of buildings, or even stand-alone facilities - panels can be also be mounted on pole mounts, flush mounts or roof-ground mounts, which allows for a greater degree of flexibility. Bear in mind that the closer the panels are to the house, less electric wiring will be necessary (and cost will go down accordingly). It is of paramount importance to make sure the photovoltaic panel is directly exposed to the sun in order to maximize solar power generation. In the Northern Hemisphere the panels should face south, avoiding the shading that trees may project.

The ideal situation when it comes to photovoltaic installation is to use the roof construction period to install the panels. Attaching solar panels to a roof during the building process is a lot easier and much less messy as rafters are exposed and you can see them. Besides, you�ll be able to cover the struts supporting the solar array from the beginning of the process. This will improve waterproofing and decrease the possibility of leaks.

As it happens, photovoltaic installation during the roof building process is not always possible. In that case, you can use panel mounts and rail systems to attach panels to existing rooftops. In general, the panels are designed to be lag bolted directly into the rafters supporting the roof.

The reality is that when it comes to photovoltaic installation, you�ll probably need professional help with wiring and the building work. If you want to get more in-depth technical information about photovoltaic installation in order to have a better idea as to how it�s done, the Home Solar PV Panels website is a good place to go. But we hope to have covered the nuts and bolts of photovoltaic installation.