We are all encouraged to conserve energy if we are to provide a better future for the children of tomorrow. The risk of resource depletion has pushed humans to seek alternative energy resources that are both efficient and renewable. Probably one of the best sources of energy is the sun. Solar energy is converted into usable energy through photovoltaic cells found in solar electric panels. There are different ways of installing solar panels depending on the type of roof and energy required by the user.
A household that wants to use solar power for all its electrical needs should purchase solar electric panels from a wide variety of producers or can search online. Solar panels are typically mounted on the roof and on top of buildings, or installed in freestanding installations where you can get the best sun exposure. Solar panel installation can be done by homeowners using installation tips found on the web or it can be done by a professional solar panel installer. Photovoltaic cells are usually enclosed together in a metal frame, most often aluminum.
This will allow the panels to be easily screwed or fastened onto the ceilings. The materials necessary for installation are: ceiling anchors that are made of steel or aluminum, used as the mounting base and where the mounting frame is fixed; the mounting frame that is fixed to the ceiling is anchored with a special locking system and bolts to screw it firmly, it is where the panels are clamped; and the last material you need is the clamp, used to secure the solar panels on the mounting frame. The clamps can be end clamps and intermediate clamps depending on the number of panels to be secured.
Once you have all the necessary components for the solar panel installation, the process can now begin. Most of the installation team will inspect the area, especially the mounting location.
• Scaffolding. This is placed by the installation team before the installation process begins. It is usually erected to reach ceilings for ease of mounting. Stairs are incorporated to ensure safety in accordance with Health and Safety codes.
• Positioning of the roof anchors. Before these are installed on the roof, they are first properly inspected, measured and marked to indicate the correct position of the panels. The positioning phase is very vital in every installation to ensure that the panel frames are in their correct locations.
• Placement of the frame. After the roof anchors are properly secured in the roof, the bars or the aluminum mounting frame are attached. You need to make sure these are parallel to each other before you lock them into place.
• Installation of photovoltaic panels. This is done after the bars where the frame is attached are properly mounted. It can be in rows or columns depending on your ceiling space.
• Panel wiring. These panels must be connected together to produce a complete electrical system.
For each solar panel installation, it is necessary to plan it first before carrying out the mounting procedure. It is also advisable that it be done during roof construction or re-roofing.