Solar panels installation can be a tricky process. Unfortunately, a bad installation is all it takes to turn your solar panel experience into an expensive nightmare. Homeowners are often left paying the price for repairs and services, installation teams’ reputations suffer, and the solar community as a whole ends up looking untrustworthy.
It takes an experienced and well trained team that understands the potential challenges and knows how panels should be installed on different roofs. The installation team should be familiar with all the best practices in the installation process and they know how to adjust these processes to avoid damage and ensure an optimal solar installation.
Some signs that may suggest a poor installation include:
- Water damage– When solar panels are installed without accounting for water flow, it’s not uncommon for racks and wiring to disrupt the flow of water and prevent proper drainage. It can increase the risk of water ingress and corrosion, which could lead to system failure in a matter of years rather than decades.
- Improper wiring– If your system is not wired up properly then you can expect problems with overall performance and efficiency. Loose connections, corrosion, and oxidation may interfere with electricity production. Unless you know what you are doing, or perhaps you are a qualified electrician, don’t try to tamper with the wiring system on your own. Please contact a licensed electrician to have everything checked properly.
- Hotspots- are among the most common issues with solar or PV systems. They can degrade the function of your solar panels and even render them irreparable. Hot spots occur when panels get too warm and overload. They are caused by several things, including the accumulation of dirt on the panels. They can also be caused by badly soldered connections, which result in low resistance in the part of the panel that generates power. This problem can lower the performance and lifespan of the solar panels.
4. Electrical hazards– Contrary to popular belief, the risk of fire and explosion from solar panels does not stem from the possibility of overheating or spontaneous combustion. Rather, it is the result of faulty wiring and careless installation near flammable gasses or vapors. To prevent fires and explosions while installing solar panels, the installer should use the correct wire size and ground all electrical systems and tools properly. Always ensure your installer (specifically the electrician performing the work) is CEC accredited.
The installation of solar panels is still a relatively new business, so establishing healthy work patterns is extremely important. Working with power sources is a historically dangerous industry, but solar power does not have to be.
Amazing Solar can help you find a reputable, accredited local installer who specializes in solar PV systems. Feel free to contact us [here].
