How to Prepare for Your Solar Installation

July 7, 2016

A solar installation can help you lower energy costs and improve the environment. Before the technicians arrive to put a solar system in place, you'll have to prepare your home adequately. Here's what you should do to get ready for your solar installation.
  • Evaluate your roof's suitability for solar panels - Invite a certified building professional to assess whether your roof can accommodate the extra weight and stress of solar panels. If it's found to be unsuitable, you'll need to make some reinforcements.
  • Repair or replace your roof - Inspect your roofing material for problems such as potential leaks and damaged shingles. It's worthwhile ordering repairs or replacement prior to a solar installation. That's because after installation, the solar panels will have to be removed for roofing repairs and replacement to be made.
  • Measure your roof - Starting at the eaves, measure the length and the width of your roof. Multiply the two numbers to get your roof's area. A typical residential solar system requires 200-400 square feet. Make sure your roof has at least 200 square feet of space before committing to a solar system installation.
  • Eliminate shade - Ensure the location that you've selected for your solar panels is free of shade. A shadow cast on just a single panel can result in loss of power in many other panels. Contact a landscaper or tree trimmer to help you get rid of vegetation that may shade the panels.
  • Move roof fittings - Relocate roof vents, satellite dishes, antennas and any other fittings on your roof. This is because they limit the size of the solar array.
Remember, you'll only make the most of your solar system if you prepare your home properly and choose the right solar installer. To learn more about solar installation and any other home comfort needs, contact us at Lozier Heating & Cooling. We proudly serve the Des Moines area. Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: "MariaGodfrida/Pixabay"