Who Installs Solar Panels? Know Who to Hire

Harness the sun with the right professional

solar panels on blue house
Photo: CLShebley/ Adobe Stock
solar panels on blue house
Photo: CLShebley/ Adobe Stock
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If you’re ready to go solar, knowing who installs solar panels is essential. The answer isn’t too surprising: A solar panel installation contractor is the best pro to get your solar system running. Hiring a qualified solar panel installation company can help you harness the power of the sun and save on utility bills.

Benefits of Hiring a Solar Panel Pro to Install Your Solar Panels

workers installing solar panels on roof
Photo: AHatmaker/ Adobe Stock

Local solar panel installation professionals will hold the certifications necessary to install your solar panel system properly. The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners® (NABCEP) awards the industry-standard certification. 

Solar panel installers with this certification have demonstrated their knowledge of solar panel systems and installation through training and experience and by passing a rigorous exam. They will be well-equipped to assess your solar needs and make recommendations for the size of the system and the number of panels. 

Doing DIY installation could void the solar panel warranty, so working with a qualified professional keeps the warranty protection in place, allowing you to reap the maximum benefits. They can also conduct solar panel inspections for new systems or maintenance of older systems.

Can I DIY Solar Panel Installation? 

Installing a solar panel system on your roof is possible with the necessary skills and knowledge and if your home is suitable for solar energy. However, we recommend hiring a professional solar panel installation company for this job. 

An experienced solar panel pro has the training required to ensure everything is installed correctly and that the panels and racking system are adequately fastened to the roof. The solar panel company will pull the right permits for the job, and hiring a pro means you won’t void the warranty. 

Can I Hire an Electrician to Install Solar Panels?

An electrician can install solar panels if certified to complete the work. In fact, some states require solar panel installers to be licensed electricians. They can install the wiring that connects the solar panels to the power system. You can also hire an electrician to perform a solar panel inspection on a new home if they’re experienced and hold the NABCEP certification. 

How Do Solar Panel Pros Install Solar Systems?

A qualified professional will attach the solar panel racking on the roof or the ground mounts (if the panels are at ground level) to install a solar panel system. They will install the solar inverters and secure the panels into the racking or mount. Solar panel pros will also install a battery if it’s part of the solar panel system. 

Finally, your solar panel installer will wire the system, connecting the inverter wires and routing them through a junction box and PV disconnect switch to your home’s circuit breaker box.

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