Introduction
Installation day is an exciting milestone in your journey to solar energy. At Better Earth, we've designed the process to be seamless, professional, and minimally disruptive, so you can look forward to a smooth experience. This guide walks you through what to expect, with tips to help everything go effortlessly. By preparing just a few simple things in advance, you'll help our expert crew deliver top-quality results while you relax and envision your brighter, greener future.
Preparing for a Smooth Installation Day
To ensure your installation day runs without a hitch, a little preparation goes a long way. These steps help our team work efficiently and safely, preventing any unnecessary delays.
Review Equipment Locations:
Before the big day, connect with your Project Manager (PM) or Sales Representative to confirm where your solar panels, inverters, batteries (if applicable), and other equipment will be placed. This ensures the setup aligns perfectly with your home and preferences. For example, inverters and batteries are typically mounted on an outside wall or in a garage.
Clear Access to Key Areas:
Make sure our team can easily reach your electrical panel, roof, and any installation sites (like the garage for batteries). Remove items from these areas—think clearing shelves, boxes, or vehicles in the garage to create space around the walls. This helps avoid any last-minute shuffling and keeps the process on track.
Parking and Driveway Considerations:
Our crew arrives with vehicles loaded with tools and materials, so having a clear driveway or designated parking spot nearby is ideal. If space is limited, let your PM know in advance, and we'll coordinate accordingly.
General Home Readiness:
No major changes are needed—just ensure pets are secured if they're sensitive to activity, and let us know about any special access instructions (e.g., gates or codes). These small steps make the day stress-free for everyone.
By addressing these ahead of time, you'll help us complete your install efficiently, often in just one day for standard systems. It's all about setting the stage for success, and our team is here to guide you every step.
The Day of Installation
Arrival of the Installation Crew:
Timing: Expect the crew to arrive between 7 AM and 10 AM, ready with all the necessary equipment to install your solar panels.
Review of Plans:
Briefing: Before any work begins, the crew will go over the installation plans with you. This is your chance to clarify any aspects of the installation, ask questions, and ensure everything aligns with your expectations.
Installation Process:
Steps:
Racking System: Installation starts with setting up the racking on your roof or ground, ensuring stability for the panels.
Panel Installation: Solar panels are then mounted securely.
Wiring: Electrical connections are made, linking the panels to your home's electrical system.
Timeline:
The duration can vary; smaller systems might wrap up within a day, while larger or more complex setups might need additional days. You'll be informed if your project extends beyond one day.
Completion:
Final Checks: By the end of the installation, the team will confirm that all panels are correctly mounted and connections are secure.
Cleanup:
Post-Installation: We ensure your property is left clean, removing all installation debris and packaging materials.
After the Installation
Post-Installation Inspection:
Inspection: A city or utility inspector will need to approve the installation. This is usually scheduled within 30 days of installation to verify compliance with local codes.
Activation and Monitoring:
Permission to Operate (PTO): After inspection, we submit for PTO, which, once granted, allows us to activate your system. Activation typically follows within 4 weeks, at which point you'll gain access to monitoring platforms to track your energy production.
Enjoy Your Solar Energy:
Benefits: With the system live, you'll officially be powering your home with the sun with more predictable rates!
Additional Questions You Might Have:
Q: What Happens if the Weather is Bad on Installation Day?
A: We monitor weather forecasts closely. If conditions are unsafe or unproductive for installation, we'll reschedule, ensuring both safety and quality of work.
Q: Do I Need to Be Home During the Installation?
A: While not always mandatory, it's beneficial for you to be available at the start to review plans and at the end for any final questions or confirmation.
Q: How Do I Prepare My Home for Installation Day?
A: Ensure clear access to your roof, electrical panel, and any area where equipment will be installed. Clear the driveway or designated parking area for our vehicles.
Q: What If I Notice Issues After Installation?
A: We offer a warranty on our work, and our customer service is here to address any post-installation concerns. Contact us immediately if you spot any issues.
FAQ for Post-Installation and System Expansion
Q: Can I Add More Panels Later?
A: In most cases, yes. However, some utility companies or finance options may limit the extent to which it makes sense to expand your system. Consult with your Project Specialist for more details.
If you can expand your solar system, any new panels will be considered a separate installation:
Minimum Size: The addition must meet Better Earth's minimum requirement of 6 panels.
Financing: New panels won't be covered under existing financing or leasing agreements; they require separate arrangements.
Q: Can Better Earth Uninstall and Reinstall My System?
A: Yes, we offer this service. Please submit a service request form on our website to receive an accurate quote tailored to the specifics of your home and solar system.
Q: Can Better Earth Remove Existing Equipment?
A: We can remove existing solar PV systems or solar thermal pool heaters. Note, we can remove but not relocate these systems.
In order to remove an existing PV system, we will need a waiver signed acknowledging the decision to remove the existing system.
Q: Can I Choose Where the Equipment is Installed?
A: You have considerable choice in equipment placement, but some locations might be dictated by local authorities or utility requirements. For full details, refer to our "Where the Equipment is Installed" article.
Conclusion
Installation day with Better Earth is crafted to be as smooth and informative as possible. We aim to not only install solar panels but also to install confidence in your choice to go solar. With your active participation and our dedicated service, you'll be well on your way to harnessing the power of the sun for your home. Remember, this is just the beginning of your journey towards energy independence and sustainability.