Where Should I Install Solar Panels?

A qualified sales consultant chooses the size, direction and pitch to get you the most efficient system possible. When it comes to efficiency a south facing roof is the most efficient and west-facing is second. Although a solar panel roof mounting is most common, in some cases, the client’s roof space will not accommodate the size of the system needed to offset their electricity usage. In this case, the consultant will explore alternative installation location options with the client. It is also important to consider resell value of the property when choosing an installation location option. Here are some of the best choices regarding location of a solar system for home or business: 

• • Rooftop-mounted systems
  • Ground-mounted systems
  • Metal Roofing/Shed systems
  • Solar Structures & Car Port systems

 

Rooftop-Mounting Solar Panel Systems

Typically, in the city limits , there aren’t many options other than roof-mounted solar panels. Due to limitations concerning how far a ground mounted system needs to be from a fence on the property, roof-top solar is often the only choice. Rooftop solar is also a popular option because, the majority of homeowners aren’t too concerned about the home’s aesthetics. The demand for solar has increased rapidly the past few years, and it is hardly uncommon to see a solar panel flat roof mounting systems proudly displayed in the front of someone’s home. However, whether or not rooftop mounting your solar panel system will work for you will depend on how many panels you need to offset your annual electricity usage. 

Ground-Mount Systems

For homeowners who have the space on their property, a ground mounted system is a great option. Ground mounts prove more efficient for a number of reasons. Because of the freedom in the design phase, you can choose the orientation and pitch of the solar system. Solar power production can vary depending on these factors, and the limitations of your roof can sometimes make a system to be less efficient if you’re limited in options.

Metal Roofing/Shed Systems

The foundation on which the solar system is built is also an important factor to consider. The majority of rooftop solar is installed on composition or tile shingles. Unfortunately, these materials aren’t built to withstand extreme weather conditions and risk failing long before your solar system.

Along with a thorough inspection, a sales consultant should always inquire about the integrity of the roof. It is recommended a re-roof be performed if the shingles are older than 20-25 years. Metal roofs are known to last as long as 40 years, depending on where you live and the climate conditions. The procedure for installing on a metal building is relatively hassle-free because the added load is minimal.

Solar Structure Systems

A solar structure is easy to construct and serves as a means for businesses to provide shaded parking for their customers. Commercial solar carport installations recently trended with large companies like Google, Whole Foods, and even Walmart. These businesses joined many businesses in an effort to promote a sustainable company image and reduce operation costs. Solar structures not only serve as an added-value for commercial work, They’re

also completely viable for residential solar. The notion that it only makes sense for a homeowner to construct a carport if rooftop solar has been ruled out is just untrue. Similar to ground mounts, this alternative can provide more freedom during the design phase to maximize efficiency of the system. In contrast, solar structures are constructed much taller than ground mounts. This is to serve as a more efficient use of space for storage capability and shading.

Whichever option you choose, our team is happy to provide you with any of the above solar installation options. We will make a professional recommendation based on the information provided to us. However, the customer ultimately decides which solution best fits their needs. Our team will help you look at all of the solar options available to you that fit your home and energy needs so you’ll always know where you can best place your solar system.