Going solar is a whole new world for most. It starts off with a ‘crazy idea’ that you can save money by installing solar panels on your roof. Once you do a little more research you find out there are typically provincial government rebates like the ones offered from efficiency PEI and efficiency NS that help save you money. Then before you know it you are getting a quote for a system and realizing just how affordable solar panels can be. Sometimes it is so affordable that you end up saving more money than you spent in the first year alone!
Image Sources: Sunly.ca
But often people are in the dark as to what to expect next. They sign the proposal to get solar installed and sometimes have to wait for what feels like an eternity to move onto the next steps.
The next big thing after signing the agreement with a preliminary design in hand is a site inspection. Or at least we hope that you get a site inspection before the installer simply shows up with panels.
The purpose of the site inspection is to ensure the proposal was done right and identify any changes that need to be made prior to installation and plan out how everything will fit together in order to have a successful project that makes you happy.
During a site inspection you can expect the following to happen:
A trained technician will show up to your house and start out by taking drone aerial images. This will allow engineers to accurately measure your roof and assess any potential obstructions.
Then they will check out your electrical meter and location on the house. Identify any obstructions or services the installer will have to account for when making the connections.
After this the technician will have to enter your house. They will access your main panel and sub panels. They will check the type, model number, service size and look to see if there is space for an additional breaker for the solar project.
Next step: The attic! It is really important to check the condition of the main structural elements and the spacing in between them. The last thing you want is your roof to collapse under new loads. It is a bit tight for the technician to get into but well worth it to have peace of mind knowing the roof is safe for solar.
Once all of that is done the measurements, photos are sent to an engineering team to properly plan out the solar panel installation. The final report should be sent to you to review and approve what is to be expected.
So why should you go through all of this?
Pre-planning is very important. For a 20+ year commitment and a fairly large investment you want to make sure that your house is right for solar. Sometimes you may find out you have to replace the roof, make structural upgrades or change the design around. By getting a site inspection done before simply installing you make sure your set up for success with no stress!
To learn more about site inspections and other factors that make your solar installation a success visit https://sunly.ca/learning-hub
2018 ·
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