Prep for the Day of Solar Panel Installation

If you're set to have solar panels installed on your home or building in the upcoming days, weeks or months, the actual day of installation itself is one you may be eagerly anticipating. It's also one where some basic preparations should be considered, ensuring that your space and everyone who spends time in it are ready for the big day. 

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we're here to offer a wide range of solar panel installation services to clients around Salt Lake City, Utah and Boise, Idaho, bringing quality solar power to numerous homes and businesses alike. Here are some basics on how to prepare your home or building and its occupants for the day of solar panel installation, plus some essential tips on what will happen that day and how to be ready for it. 

General Roof Check and Prep

At least a day or two ahead of time, take a walk around your property and do a visual inspection of your roof. If you notice any loose or missing shingles, have them fixed beforehand. This will save time and make it easier for the installation team to start work on the solar panel system right away.

If you're planning on having a new roof installed, be sure to do this before the solar panels are put in place. If there is any necessary roof maintenance that needs to be done, take care of it before installation day. 

There also may be certain preparations that need to be done depending on other elements of your roof. If a satellite dish or other equipment is in the way, contact your installation company to discuss having it moved beforehand. 

Indoor Preparations

On the day of solar panel installation, make sure that all rooms and areas are accessible to the installers. If there are any pets, be sure to keep them contained in a safe space away from the work area. Ensure that any valuables or breakable items are moved out of the way to prevent any accidents. 

Prepare Occupants for Noise and Disruption

Whether it's a home or a business, solar panel installation can be quite noisy and disruptive. If you have young children or elderly individuals residing in the building, it may be wise to arrange for them to stay with friends or family during the day of installation. 

For businesses, it's important to inform employees ahead of time about the scheduled installation date and any potential noise disruptions that may occur. Consider arranging for remote work or alternate working locations if necessary. 

Keep Space Available in Yard or Other Property Areas

Because installation crews will be moving equipment and materials around, it's important to have enough space available for them in your yard or other property areas. Be sure to clear any clutter or obstacles beforehand to make their job easier.

For instance, if you have a driveway or parking area where installers will need to park their trucks or store materials, make sure it's clear of any vehicles or obstructions. This will help the installation process go smoothly and efficiently. 

Safety for All Occupants

In addition to simply informing occupants about the installation process, it's important to ensure their safety during the day of installation. Make sure that children and pets are kept away from the work area at all times for their own protection. 

If anyone in your household has health concerns or sensitivities to noise or dust, consider making arrangements for them to be out of the house on the day of installation.

The Basic Installation Process

For your knowledge, here are the broad and general steps that will take place on the day of installation - keep in mind that things like permits and site assessment are not included here, as these will be arranged well in advance. 

• Final prep: The installation team will prepare the area for work by setting up ladders and safety equipment, as well as laying out any necessary materials or tools.

• Panel layout: Next, the team will lay out the solar panels in their designated areas on the roof. This may involve drilling holes into the rafters to secure them properly.

• Wiring and connections: Once the panels are securely in place, the wiring and connections will be completed. This includes attaching the panels to an inverter and connecting it to your electrical panel.

• Final checks: Before the team leaves, they will give everything a final check to ensure that all wires are properly connected and that the system is functioning correctly.

With the right basic preparations, your home or business will be ready for the day of solar panel installation. Be sure to follow these tips and communicate with your installation company to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible. And soon enough, you'll be enjoying all the benefits of clean, renewable solar energy on your property. 

At Intermountain Wind & Solar, we take pride in providing top-quality solar panel installation services to our clients. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you make the switch to solar power, whether you're in SLC, Utah or Boise, Idaho.