How To Install Solar Panels: 2023

The best solar companies help customers transition to solar power as seamlessly as possible. But what does the step-by-step process entail? While most homeowners understand the financial benefits of going solar, many customers don't know the mechanics of the installation process. We at the Guides Home Team have provided an overview of how to install solar panels and explained your solar installer's role in the process.

Converting to solar energy requires thorough planning and research. Though most homeowners can benefit from installing a solar system, those with low electricity rates, limited roof space or a limited local solar market may not save money. We suggest using the following guidelines to determine if a move to solar energy will benefit your household.

Solar power offers an unlimited source of energy that helps reduce your monthly electricity bill.

Most homeowners benefit from this lower electricity usage, but some areas of the country already have reasonable electricity rates. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) found that the average household pays $122 per month for electricity. Homeowners in areas with higher rates than this will benefit from investing in a solar panel system. Below are the top 10 states with the highest electricity rates.

*Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

If you live in an area with low electricity rates, converting to solar energy won't result in many savings. Most solar companies will review your annual energy use to determine if a move to renewable energy will be worth the investment.

Rooftop solar installations are the most common solar panel configuration. These panels sit closer to direct sunlight, helping them capture more energy for conversion. You’ll need plenty of roof space for this type of installation. Any roof obstructions, such as chimneys or vents, reduce your available space.

Homeowners should also consider investing in the best solar panels they can afford. High-efficiency solar panels, such as monocrystalline panels, provide the best power production, resulting in maximum savings on your monthly bills. Since these panels perform well, you’ll need fewer of them to power your home. Lower-efficiency panels, such as polycrystalline panels, are cheaper, but you’ll need to buy more of them.

Consider a ground-mounted installation if your roof doesn't have enough room for solar panels. These installations require unobstructed yard space to function at maximum capacity. You may need to clear nearby obstructions, such as trees or long branches, that could cast shadows on the panels and reduce their functionality.

Solar incentives, credits and rebates lower the up-front costs required for a solar panel investment. These incentives may come from federal and state governments, municipalities or local utility companies in your area. For example, the federal tax credit provides a credit equal to 30% of your installation costs. This credit applies to your federal tax liability and may reduce or eliminate it.

Other incentives include sales and property tax exemptions that reward customers for moving to solar energy. Since these incentives vary from state to state, we recommend checking the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) for incentives in your area.

Once you’ve determined that a solar system will work for your home, you’ll need to find the right solar company for your installation. Research the solar companies in your area, check customer reviews on reputable sites and speak with friends and family that are current solar customers.

We suggest requesting quotes from at least three solar installers. Compare each aspect of the quote, including the following details:

Each company will provide the full details of your solar energy system and include blueprints of your potential system. They will review your monthly energy bills and build a system tailored to your needs. Solar providers should check your home design via satellite pictures or with an on-site visit to determine the best panel configuration based on your available space. Solar companies should also provide details on available solar incentives to help offset your solar panel costs.

Once you’ve chosen a company, you‘ll begin the solar panel installation process. An installation typically takes one to three months but could take longer. Common delays include waiting for permit approvals, availability in your installer's schedule or issues with final inspections. Here's an overview of the installation process and the steps your installer will take to complete it.

An engineer from your solar company will conduct a site visit to finalize plans before the installation begins. The engineer may be a member of the in-house staff or part of the installer's network of third-party contractors. During their evaluation, the engineer checks your electrical system's capacity to ensure it's compatible with your new solar system. Any outdated or low-powered systems must be upgraded to handle the amps of current required to run your solar system.

The engineer also verifies your roof's condition and determines its durability. Your roof must be strong enough to support the solar panels and the racking systems. According to Sunpower Solar, most panels weigh around 40 pounds each. The engineer will compare the size of your panel installation with the condition of your roof. If your roof is in poor condition or needs repair, you’ll need to make those upgrades before installation. In addition, your roof's design and angle will determine if you need special mounting equipment.

Your installer will submit all necessary paperwork and permits for your new solar system. Most solar companies will update you on the application status. The following paperwork is required for most installations:

Additional paperwork may be needed for your Homeowner's Association (HOA). Some HOAs have regulations on solar panel systems to preserve a neighborhood's property value and general aesthetics. On rare occasions, an HOA may block solar panel installation. Several states have laws in place to protect residents against these restrictions. Texas, for example, has a Solar Rights code that prevents HOAs from blocking solar panel installations. Check with your local representative to verify such restrictions or bylaws.

Application approval times vary between each state. Some areas approve permits in seven days or less, while others could take several weeks. Ask your solar provider for an estimated timeline and updates on the status of your permits.

After your paperwork is approved, the solar company places your equipment order. The order includes your selected type of solar panels and the supporting mounting system. Your provider may have given you options for your inverter brand. The inverter converts the incoming solar energy from direct current (DC) energy to the alternating current (AC) energy needed for your home. Additional accessories, such as battery backup systems, also come with this order.

Next, your installer will select an installation date. The date could be delayed depending on the equipment's availability and your solar installer's schedule. Most installers try to work with customers to find a date that aligns with everyone's schedule.

Either in-house installers or third-party contractors will install your solar system. The crew will arrive with all the necessary equipment and aim to complete the installation in one day. If your home requires special mounting equipment or a complicated installation, your project could take several days to complete.

The installers will measure and mark your roof for panel placement. They’ll install the electrical wiring and mounting equipment before attaching your solar panels. They’ll then assemble the other parts of the solar power system, including the inverters, battery bank and other accessories.

Your solar system must be inspected and approved before activation. A local government representative will check for faulty wiring, loose mounting systems or potential fire hazards. After passing this inspection, your system receives permission to operate (PTO). Your installer will schedule this inspection, which could take a couple of weeks.

Finally, an electrician from your local utility company will check the system before activation. Again, your installer will book this appointment and inform you of the expected completion timeline.

Although do-it-yourself (DIY) installation kits are available, we don't recommend installing a solar system on your own. DIY installations require electrical skills and an advanced understanding of solar technology. Improper installation could severely damage your home due to faulty mounting, electrical fires or collapsed panels. You’ll also be responsible for filing all necessary permits, which requires knowledge of solar energy regulations and laws.

We recommend hiring a professional solar company to ensure a safe and proper solar panel installation.

If you’re considering a move to clean energy, evaluate your energy needs and home structure to ensure a solar system will be beneficial. Request quotes from several solar companies and compare their product catalogs, services and reputations. Installing a solar system requires many complicated steps and approvals before activation. The process may take several months, so it will take time to see the long-term savings of solar energy. Stay in contact with your solar provider and request an estimated timeline for the full process.

It can take one to three days to install solar panels, depending on the project's complexity.

Yes, you can run your home on solar power alone with the right solar system. You can become energy-independent by pairing highly efficient solar panels with battery storage.

You can save money on installation costs by installing your solar panels. However, you’ll need advanced knowledge of solar energy, roofing and electrical work to complete the installation. Improper installation could lead to costly fire or structural damage. We recommend choosing a professional solar installer instead.

Tamara Jude is a writer specializing in solar energy and home improvement content. She has a background in journalism and an enthusiasm for research, with more than six years of experience producing and writing content. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, attending concerts and playing video games.

Angela Bunt is an accomplished editor with more than a decade of experience writing, producing and editing content. She has a breadth of knowledge spanning the home, travel, music and health industries, and she is a proud New Hampshire homeowner. In her spare time, Angela enjoys live music, watching the Real Housewives and hanging out with her dog, Jim.