If you plan to install residential solar panels in your Edison home, your first step is to determine whether your roof design is suitable for a solar installation. Whether you have a flat, sloped, or mixed roof design, you can install solar panels on them. However, as the design becomes more complex, the efficiency of solar panels drops.
Combating the Design Constraints
Difficulty in Installation
As against a sloped roof, a flat top makes it easier to install solar panels. With the help of mounting systems, you may not even need to drill holes into a flat roof. With a sloped roof, drilling is the only option to secure the panels. Solar systems installed on flat roofs are also easier to install. So, installers prefer to install solar systems on flatter parts of the roof to make the installation and maintenance easier.
Weight Per Square Feet
The solar system puts additional weight on your roof. So, consult your service provider to find out the weight of the residential solar panels and how many you need for your power needs. The solar installer will ensure that your roof can bear the additional weight through a certified letter from an architect.
Solar Panel Orientation
Take into account the roof’s angle and tree shading on it when installing a solar system on it. The sun’s position keeps changing throughout the day. So, the angle at which your solar panels receive sunlight also changes with it. You should ensure that your solar panels are placed in an orientation that receives the maximum sunlight throughout the day. Solar installers today have software solutions to help them determine the most optimal layout for your residential solar panels in Edison.
Designing the Solar Panels For Maximum Efficiency
It is tricky to change the roof design for a home. However, you can design a custom solar power solution that can factor in your roof’s unique characteristics.
If your roof cannot bear the heavy weight of the solar power system, they may implement supports in the attic or move the entire installation to the ground for the safety of your family.
If your roof does not have the optimal orientation, solar installers can still help. Today, they have software solutions that can help them determine the most optimal layout for your residential solar panels in Edison.