The day of your solar site survey is a crucial step in your journey towards harnessing solar energy for your home. It's the moment where we gather the vital information needed to design a solar system tailored specifically for your property. Here's an in-depth look at what you can expect, ensuring you're fully prepared and excited for this pivotal day.
What to Expect During the Site Survey
Notification: You'll receive a text message with a tracking link approximately 30 minutes before our surveyor arrives at your home. This gives you a precise heads-up, ensuring you're ready for their visit.
Roof Inspection: The primary goal of the site surveyor is to assess the quality of your roof. They'll look for structural integrity, shading issues, and optimal panel placement to maximize solar exposure.
Electrical Panel Review: A critical part of the survey involves inspecting your home's electrical panel. This includes:
Main Panel: The surveyor will check the capacity and condition of your main electrical panel.
Sub Panels: We recommend granting access to all sub-panels, even those inside your home, to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
Photography of Electrical Equipment: Our surveyor will take detailed photographs of all your electrical equipment. This documentation is essential for planning the integration of your solar system with your home's existing electrical setup.
Attic Rafter Photos (If Required): Depending on local building codes (Authority Having Jurisdiction or AHJ), we might need to capture images of the roof rafters from your attic. This helps in understanding the roof's structural support for solar panel installation.
3D Drone Scan: To find the most efficient locations for installing electrical equipment, we'll use a drone to perform a 3D scan of your property. This technology provides us with a detailed model of your home, ensuring we place equipment where it performs best.
Duration: The entire site survey typically takes about 45 minutes, making it a quick yet thorough process.
Why This Process is Beneficial
Precision: The detailed inspection ensures your solar system is designed with precision, maximizing energy production and longevity.
Safety: By thoroughly examining your electrical setup, we ensure that the installation will be safe and compliant with all regulations.
Efficiency: The use of drone technology for a 3D scan allows for the most efficient placement of solar equipment, enhancing your system's performance.
Transparency: You'll have a clear understanding of what's happening on your property, with real-time updates via text.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to be home for the site survey?
A: Yes, it's beneficial to be present or have someone available to grant access to all necessary areas, especially if sub-panels are located inside.
Q: What if I can't provide access to my attic?
A: If attic access is required and not possible, we'll inform you if this might delay or affect the survey process. We'll work with you to find a solution or determine if it's necessary.
Q: Will the drone disturb my neighbors?
A: Our drones are quiet and operate at a safe altitude, minimizing disturbance. We also comply with local regulations regarding drone use.
Q: What should I do to prepare for the surveyor's visit?
A: Clear any obstructions from your roof and ensure easy access to your electrical panels. If sub-panels are inside, make sure they're accessible.
Q: Can weather conditions affect the site survey?
A: Yes, poor weather might delay drone operations or affect roof inspection. We'll reschedule if necessary to ensure safety and accuracy.
Q: What happens if the surveyor finds issues with my roof or electrical system?
A: If issues are found, your sales representative or project specialist will discuss them with you, providing options like repairs or upgrades. This ensures your solar installation can proceed safely and efficiently.
Q: How soon after the survey will I get the results?
A: You'll receive an update or preliminary findings shortly after the survey, with a full report following within a few days, outlining the next steps for your solar project.
Conclusion
The site survey day is your first step towards a sustainable energy future with Better Earth. It's designed to be as informative and non-intrusive as possible, ensuring your solar system is perfectly suited to your home. With our advanced technology and expert surveyors, we're committed to making this process smooth, safe, and tailored to your needs. If you have any further questions or concerns, our team is always here to assist, ensuring you feel confident and excited about your solar journey.