At Better Earth, we prioritize customization in the design layout of your solar system to align with your preferences. However, certain aspects of equipment placement are dictated by technical, safety, and regulatory requirements. Below, we detail the placement options for each component of your solar installation, providing you with clarity and control where possible.
Installation Options:
Solar Panels: You have the flexibility to choose the optimal location for your solar panels based on your roof's structure, shading, and aesthetic preferences. Our design team will work with you to find the best placement for maximum efficiency and visual appeal.
Inverter: The inverter can be installed either outside, typically on the wall of your home, or inside your garage. Outdoor installation is preferred for ease of access and ventilation, but indoor options are available if you prefer.
Battery Installation: Batteries are usually installed outdoors on the side of your home for optimal ventilation and to keep them out of living spaces. In cases where space or clearance is an issue, we might:
Install the battery on a concrete pedestal in your yard.
Alternatively, place it in the garage, which would require additional safety measures like installing protective bollards to prevent accidental damage.
Conduit: The conduit, which houses the wiring connecting various components, can be installed either on the exterior of your home for visibility and ease of maintenance or inside the attic for a cleaner look, depending on your preference and the home's structure.
Main Service Panel: The location of the main service panel upgrade, if required, is determined by your utility provider's regulations. This ensures compliance and ease of utility inspection.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger: Typically, the EV charger is installed inside your garage for convenience or near your driveway if that's more practical for your vehicle's parking location.
Other Electrical Components:
AC Disconnect: This safety switch must be installed on the exterior of your home, close to the inverter, to allow for safe disconnection of the solar system from the grid during maintenance or emergencies.
Sub Panel: If a sub-panel is necessary, its location will be determined by local building codes and approval processes, aiming for the most logical and accessible spot relative to your main panel and solar system.
Smart Meter: The placement of a smart meter, if your utility requires one, is dictated by the utility company's standards for monitoring energy production and consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I change the location of my solar panels after installation?
A: Post-installation changes to panel locations can be complex due to structural and electrical considerations. Generally, we advise you to plan your solar project to place panels in a permanent location.
Q: Why can't the inverter be installed indoors in all cases?
A: Inverters generate heat and require good ventilation. Outdoor installation ensures proper cooling and reduces the risk of overheating, which is why it's often preferred. Indoor installation might require additional cooling solutions.
Q: What are the considerations for battery placement?
A: Batteries need to be placed in well-ventilated areas to manage heat dissipation and ensure safety. Outdoor placement or in a garage with protective measures like bollards prevents accidental damage and complies with safety standards.
Q: Is there any aesthetic impact from the conduit placement?
A: Exterior conduit can be visible but is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. Attic installation hides the conduit but might require access for maintenance. We can discuss options to minimize visual impact.
Q: What if my utility provider has specific requirements for the main service panel?
A: We always coordinate with your utility provider to ensure compliance with their requirements for the main service panel location, ensuring your installation passes inspection and operates efficiently.
Q: Can the EV charger be installed in a location other than the garage or driveway?
A: While typical locations are the garage or near the driveway, we can explore alternative locations based on your vehicle's parking habits and your home's layout, ensuring safety and convenience.
Q: How is the location for the AC Disconnect determined?
A: The AC Disconnect must be easily accessible in case of an emergency, which is why it's installed outside, near the inverter, following safety and code compliance.
Q: What if I need to upgrade my sub-panel or install a smart meter after the solar system is in place?
A: While initial placement is guided by local codes, future upgrades or additions like a sub-panel or smart meter can be accommodated. We'll work with local authorities and your utility to find suitable locations.
This guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of where each piece of equipment will be placed in your solar installation with Better Earth, ensuring your system is both functional and tailored to your home's aesthetics and your personal preferences. If you have any specific concerns or requests regarding equipment placement, please discuss them with our design team during your project consultation.