As a solar panel installation company, we recognize the importance of selecting the right mounting system for every project. It’s an investment that will ensure the durability and performance of the solar panels, and it can make a difference between a successful solar project and one that fails. That is why we’re here to guide you towards the right choice.
In this blog post, we will discuss some key factors to consider when selecting the right solar panel mounting system for your project. This includes choosing the right size and type of mounting system, location, and solar panel system for your budget.
Types Of Solar Panels Mounting Systems
Solar mounting systems provide a high degree of customizability. This feature allows the solar panels to be positioned at the optimal angle and direction for energy optimization. Different solar mounting systems suit different ranges of energy requirements. Thus, it is vital to have a brief insight into various types of solar mounting systems. Below we have mentioned and listed an overview of different types of mounting systems and who they are best suited for:
Rooftop Solar Mounting Systems
Rooftop solar mounting systems are the most widely used solar panel systems because of their convenience, inexpensive costs, and ability to optimize unused space. The solar panel installation in a roof-mounted system are generally installed on a frame anchored to the roof structure. These types of systems are applicable in both grid-tied and off-grid modes.
A solar roof mounting system makes an excellent option for anyone wanting to generate renewable energy for residential and commercial purposes. With the help of a qualified solar installer, you can decide how many solar panels you’ll need based on energy usage.
Roof-mounted systems are your best fit
- If you own a home with enough roof space for a solar rooftop.
- If you live in an area with plenty of sunlight on the roof.
- If your roof is south-facing, as it captures the most sunlight, in that order.
- If the roof is in good condition.
Wind And Snow Loads
This system is essential for solar panel installations in areas that face high winds and snow loads. They are typically designed and manufactured to withstand the additional weight and pressure placed on solar panels by thunderstorms or hailstorms.
If you live in an area that experiences severe weather turbulence like heavy rainfall and thunder, then we recommend you a wind and snow load mounting system. This is especially reasonable for installations on rooftops or other elevated structures.
Ground-Mounted Systems
Ground-mounted solar systems are solar panels installed on the ground, generally in an open field instead of on rooftops. They are often used for larger-scale solar installations, like businesses or utility-scale solar farms. Ground-mounted solar systems provide greater flexibility regarding the size and structure of solar panels. These systems are applicable for large-scale solar installations where a certain amount of solar energy is needed.
Who should get ground-mounted systems?
- If you have available land space but quite limited roof space.
- If trees or buildings are shadowing the roof, thus decreasing the amount of sunlight.
- If the roof is too congested or lacks the strength to support the solar panels.
Pole-Mounted Solar Systems
They are ideal for locations where commonly used systems like ground-mounted or roof-mounted are usable because of limited space. Pole-mounted solar systems are generally used in remote areas like the countryside or outskirts of the city. These are the places with limited and inconsistent access to electricity.
As a result, a large-scale solar panel system is needed to provide solar power to an entire rural area. Pole-mounted solar systems are also used in lighting and security applications. You can power street lights, parking lots, and security cameras in remote locations.
Pole-mounted solar systems are for you:
- If you want a solar system in a limited space because you have space either on the roof or open land.
- If you want an easier-to-install solar system.
- If you want to power remote equipment or devices, like water pumps, security cameras, or street lights.
Tracker Mount Solar System
This system is designed to track the sun throughout the day, which can help increase the energy output of solar panels. As a result, it helps increase the energy output of solar panels. Tracker mount solar systems are best for those wanting to boost their energy production and become energy independent.
Tracker mount solar system are for you:
- It is ideal for those with limited space for solar panels.
- Best fit for people living in an area with high electricity costs.
- If you live in an area with tiered electricity rates, then a solar system can help you generate more electricity during peak rate hours
Fixed Tilt Mounting System
An example of a fixed-tilt mounting system is one in which solar panels are installed at a set angle, typically tilted toward the equator. In contrast to other mounting systems, the permanent tilt mounting system prevents the solar panels from being moved or adjusted after installation. The panels’ fixed angle and orientation optimize the amount of solar energy they can absorb.
Installations in locations with consistent and predictable solar exposure work best with the fixed-tilt mounting device. When maximizing energy production is a top concern, large commercial solar panels installations with this mounting system are ideal. The fixed tilt system is also appropriate for deployments in locations where the solar panels’ orientation and angle can be modified to the latitude and sun exposure of the site.
Factors To Determine The Right Solar Panel Mounting System
The success of any solar panel system installation depends on selecting the appropriate solar mounting method. Solar panels are mounted and positioned on a solar mounting device in order to receive the most sunlight. The ideal solar mounting system is determined by a number of variables, such as:
Roof Type
A valuable consideration when choosing the best solar mounting system is the type of roof on which the solar panels will be installed. For instance, a flat roof will require a different mounting method than a pitched roof for the installation of solar panels. Pitch roofs need a flashing and mounting system, while flat roofs need a ballasted or fixed mounting system.
Wind Load
Choosing the appropriate mounting method requires careful consideration of the wind load on the solar panels. The position of the solar panel installation and the local weather have an impact on the wind load. To stop the panels from being harmed or detached, the mounting system must be able to resist strong winds and gusts.
Snow Load
The quantity of snow in the region where the solar panels will be installed is an especially important consideration. The mounting mechanism must be strong enough to support the weight of the wintertime snow buildup on the solar panels. To guarantee the greatest possible solar energy production, the mounting system must be able to keep snow from building up on the panels.
Panel Type And Size
The correct mounting system should be selected based on the type and size of the solar panels being installed. To ensure a safe and stable installation, the mounting system needs to be appropriate for the size and type of solar panel.Orientation
When choosing the ideal mounting method, consideration should be given to the orientation of the solar panels. The solar panels must be oriented in the mounting device to receive the most sunlight possible throughout the day. The latitude of the placement site determines the orientation of the panels.Cost
It is cost-effective in long-term to choose the right solar mounting system. Since it guarantees that the solar panels are optimizing enough energy production. Thus also reducing the need for additional panels and increasing the overall system’s efficiency. As a result, installation and upkeep expenses may be reduced, which would speed up the return on investment.Conclusion
Ultimately, this means lower installation and maintenance expenses and a quicker payback period. A successful and cost-effective solar panel system installation can be achieved with the help of Ohio Valley Solar. We ensure that the best mounting system is chosen for solar panel installation. For more information regarding our services, you can visit our homepage and get free estimates as well.