Installing commercial solar panels is no small task. It requires an experienced team, plenty of planning, and extensive preparation. Yet even with all of that in place, it’s still possible to make mistakes during installation.
Knowing the potential pitfalls can help you avoid them and ensure your commercial solar panel system is installed quickly and efficiently. Here we will discuss the top mistakes to avoid with commercial solar panel installation in Phoenix AZ so that you can enjoy a smooth and successful solar project.
Choose the Best Type of Solar Panels
When selecting solar panels, it’s important to research and make sure you choose the best type for your needs. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels, each with unique benefits. Consider cost, efficiency, warranty coverage, and available space before deciding.
With over 20 years of experience as a commercial solar company in Phoenix Arizona, we have installed several types and brands of solar panels. Check out our write-up of the “THE TOP 5 COMMERCIAL SOLAR PANEL MANUFACTURERS TO CONSIDER” to learn more about the best solar panels available.
Be aware of the different types of solar panels
Another mistake to avoid when installing commercial solar panels is not being aware of the different types of solar panels available. Solar technology has come a long way since the early days, and now more advanced products on the market may be better suited for your particular needs and budget. Sometimes the panels we use on a commercial solar carport are different than those on a solar awning, rooftop, or ground-mounted system.
Research and shop around to ensure you select the right panel type for your application. Or better yet, call a commercial solar installer, like Watt Masters, and have them perform an on-site analysis to help you determine the best solar panels for your needs.
Not Considering Installation Location
Proper installation location is essential when installing commercial solar panels. You need to consider factors like shade patterns throughout the day, the angle of sunlight for optimal energy production, and any obstructions that might be present. Neglecting these considerations can lead to sub-optimal system performance, so take them seriously before beginning solar installation.
Installing Incorrectly
Installation mistakes can be costly and time-consuming, so do your due diligence to ensure all components are properly attached and configured. Following the manufacturer’s installation instructions is the best way to avoid making any installation errors, but if those aren’t available, it may be wise to consult a professional solar technician who can provide guidance.
Not Maintaining Your Solar Panels Properly
Once your system is up and running, regular maintenance of your solar panels is essential for optimal performance. This includes regularly checking for damage, cleaning off any built-up dirt or dust, and keeping an eye out for any signs of malfunctioning equipment. Neglecting this routine maintenance can lead to decreased energy production and costly repairs.
Not Considering Solar Panel Performance Over Time
Lastly, it’s important to remember that solar panels are not designed to last forever. As such, you should know their expected performance timespan and plan accordingly for a replacement when needed. This can help avoid disruptions to your operations due to outdated or malfunctioning equipment.
Neglecting Other Components of the System
Installing high-quality solar panels is only part of setting up a successful solar power system. Other components are required to make it work, such as an inverter, charge controller, batteries, wiring, and mounting hardware. Ensure all these elements are accounted for in your system design so you don’t end up with a sub-optimal setup.
Installation by Non-Accredited Solar Installers
The final mistake to avoid is using non-accredited solar installers. Installing a commercial solar system requires special expertise and certification, so it’s important to ensure you hire experienced solar installers in Arizona that have the necessary qualifications. This will help to ensure your system is installed correctly and that any warranty claims are handled properly.
Underestimating Your Power Requirements
When installing commercial solar panels, it’s important to consider your future power requirements. Don’t make the mistake of under-sizing your system to save money now; this will likely cause problems down the line if you need more power than what your current setup can provide. Instead, plan and invest in a larger system to meet your long-term needs.
Forgetting about Energy Storage Systems
In addition to installing solar panels, you may want to consider energy storage systems. This can be important if you want to ensure that your system can handle short-term fluctuations in power demand, such as when the sun isn’t shining. Investing in quality solar battery backup or other storage solutions will help to ensure reliability and avoid any potential downtime due to a lack of energy. The alternative is to have a backup generator installed.
Not Utilizing the Right Accessories
Solar power systems require various accessories to operate effectively. These can range from surge protection devices to fuses and disconnect switches, so ensure you have all the components for your system before beginning installation.
This will help ensure optimal performance and avoid unnecessary downtime due to faulty equipment. Installing commercial solar power systems isn’t something that should be taken lightly. Several considerations must be made to work properly, from design and installation to regular maintenance and energy storage solutions.
Forgetting About the Pre-Installation Process
It’s important to understand that a solar power system does not just magically appear. A pre-installation process involves obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, conducting an energy audit of your facility, and properly sizing your system for optimal efficiency.
Failing to consider this step could result in costly delays or potential violations of local regulations. To ensure you don’t make any mistakes during this step, it’s best to enlist the help of a knowledgeable and experienced professional solar technician who can provide guidance. With their expertise, you can be sure that your commercial solar power system will be installed correctly and efficiently from start to finish.
Poor system design and layout
Another common mistake when installing commercial solar systems is poor quality components, design, and layout. As mentioned earlier, your system should be properly sized to ensure maximum efficiency and performance. But beyond that, how your panels are laid out and connected can also impact how well it works.
For example, too much shade or obstacles between panels can reduce their efficiency. Connecting panels with the incorrect gauge of wiring or incorrectly routing cables can lead to problems down the line. To prevent these issues, consider the various environmental factors, such as sunlight exposure and weather conditions, when designing your system’s layout.
Ignoring safety concerns with DIY solar panels
Finally, never attempt to install commercial solar panels on your own. While it may be tempting to try and save money by doing it yourself, serious safety concerns must be considered when dealing with electricity. Moreover, you will likely require permits and inspections from local authorities to comply with regulations.
As such, it’s best to always have the help of a professional knowledgeable about commercial solar company power systems. This way, you can rest assured knowing the job has been done correctly and safely. To the potential safety issues mentioned above, there can also be electrical hazards with commercial solar power systems.
Installing a commercial solar power system can be intimidating, but following these tips should help ensure everything goes smoothly from start to finish. Remember to hire qualified professionals to design and install your system, pay attention to the pre-installation process, and never forget about safety when dealing with electricity. Proper planning ensures that your commercial solar power system will provide reliable energy for years.
Placing Panels in the Wrong Positions
Another important factor to consider when installing commercial solar power systems is the positioning of your solar panels. Placing them too close or too far away from each other can affect their efficiency, as well as the overall performance of your system.
If you don’t consider shadows cast by nearby trees and buildings, the sunlight exposure your panels receive may be reduced dramatically. To avoid these issues, it’s important to ensure your solar panel layout is properly planned before you start the installation. Once you’ve determined the optimal layout, follow it closely when installing your panels.
Not Checking the Micro-Cracks
Don’t forget to check for micro-cracks during installation. Micro-cracks can occur when solar cells are incorrectly installed or damaged from transportation, and they can significantly reduce the efficiency of your system. To check for micro-cracks, use a magnifying glass to inspect each cell carefully before installing them in your system.
If you find any cracks, replace the cell immediately and dispose of it properly to ensure the safety of your system.
Unorganized Connecting Cable Systems
Once you’ve finished the installation of your commercial solar power system, it’s important to properly organize the connecting cables. Unorganized cable systems can create an unsafe environment, decreasing efficiency and poor performance.
To prevent this, ensure all cables are neatly and securely routed, following local regulations and industry standards. Be mindful of sharp corners or bends that could damage or weaken wiring over time. All connections should be appropriately sealed with appropriate insulation material to ensure a safe operation and extend service life.
By following these tips for installing commercial solar power systems, you can know your system performs at its best while safely operating. With proper planning and attention to detail during installation, you can ensure your solar panels will provide reliable, clean energy for years. With the right design and maintenance, you can be sure that your commercial solar power system will help maximize savings while minimizing downtime.
FAQs
The best type of solar panel for commercial use depends on your business’s energy needs and budget constraints. High-efficiency monocrystalline panels are usually more expensive but offer greater efficiency, while polycrystalline panels tend to be cheaper but require larger surface areas for the same amount of power output.
Optimal solar panel placement depends on the location of your business, the amount of sunlight available, and shadows from nearby trees or buildings. Planning out your solar layout before installation is important to ensure maximum efficiency and performance.
Solar panel wiring should be properly organized and safely routed, following local regulations and industry standards. All connections must be securely sealed to ensure a safe operation and sharp bends or corners should be avoided to avoid damage to the wiring over time. This is why we strongly recommend getting solar installed by an electrician!
Too many solar companies have popped up in recent years, in an attempt to capitalize on the rapidly growing demand; however, some of them hire inexperienced labor to knock these projects out quickly, rather than experienced electricians who will safely and properly wire your solar panel system for optimal performance and the safety of your building and it’s occupants!!
The size of your solar panels depends on the energy needed for your business. A professional assessment and calculation should be carried out to determine the exact size and number of panels required to meet your needs. Learn more about system sizing and costs in our blog titled, “What Is The Cost Of Commercial Solar Panels in 2023 – Is It Worth It?“
The power output of a commercial solar panel system on the type and size of the panels and how many are included in the entire system. For a smaller office building, most commercial systems range from 1 to 10 kW. Whereas a warehouse or industrial solar system can be multiple megawatts (1 megawatt = 1,000 kilowatts).
Commercial solar panels typically produce between 250 and 400 power per panel. The exact output depends on the type, size, orientation, and weather conditions.
An Experienced Solar Installer Will Save You Money, Headaches and Costly Mistakes
There are a variety of mistakes that can be avoided during the installation of commercial solar panels. Proper research, selecting suitable equipment for your project requirements, and working with reliable professionals is key. These simple tips can help ensure maximum safety and efficiency from your solar panel system investments over time.
Contents
- 1 Choose the Best Type of Solar Panels
- 2 Be aware of the different types of solar panels
- 3 Not Considering Installation Location
- 4 Installing Incorrectly
- 5 Not Maintaining Your Solar Panels Properly
- 6 Not Considering Solar Panel Performance Over Time
- 7 Neglecting Other Components of the System
- 8 Installation by Non-Accredited Solar Installers
- 9 Underestimating Your Power Requirements
- 10 Forgetting about Energy Storage Systems
- 11 Not Utilizing the Right Accessories
- 12 Forgetting About the Pre-Installation Process
- 13 Poor system design and layout
- 14 Ignoring safety concerns with DIY solar panels
- 15 Placing Panels in the Wrong Positions
- 16 Not Checking the Micro-Cracks
- 17 Unorganized Connecting Cable Systems
- 18 FAQs