A solar panel mounting system is a crucial component in any solar energy installation, ensuring your panels are securely positioned for optimal sunlight exposure. Whether you’re installing solar panels on your rooftop, the ground, or another creative location, the right mounting system can significantly impact the performance, durability, and efficiency of your solar energy setup.
Understanding how solar mounting systems work can help you make informed decisions for a more sustainable future. This guide will walk you through the components and various types of solar panel mounting systems, as well as what to expect in terms of cost.
What is a Solar Panel Mounting System?
A solar panel mounting system is the structure that secures solar panels to a rooftop, poles, or the ground. The mounting system ensures the solar panels are adjusted to an angle that will capture maximum solar energy. The mounting system is also responsible for protecting the solar panels from environmental factors like snow and wind.
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Components of a Solar Panel Mounting System
There are several pieces that make up a solar panel mounting system, including rails, solar racks, clamps, and mounts. Each of these components contributes to successfully mounting solar panels to the ground or a rooftop.
- Mounting rails: Horizontal bars that run parallel to the solar panels and provide a place to securely attach the panels to the mounting structure
- Racking: The framework that connects solar panels to the mounting rails
- Mounting clamps: Devices used to securely attach the solar panels to the mounting rails, providing critical panel support
- Roof or ground mounts: Anchors that secure the system to the roof or ground
Types of Solar Panel Mounting Systems
The type of solar panel mounting system you’ll need depends on where you plan to secure your panels. For instance, if you intend to install your solar panels on the roof of your home or business, you’ll need a roof-mounted system, whereas if you plan to install your panels on a large piece of farmland, you’ll need a ground-mounted system.
Roof-Mounted Systems
The most common type of solar panel mounting is the roof-mounted system. As the name implies, solar panels are attached directly to the roof. Roof-mounted systems can be adapted to accommodate flat or sloped roofs. If you’re installing mounts on a flat roof, you’ll likely use angled rails to tilt the panels toward the sun. For a sloped roof, pitched roof mounts can be used to install the panels parallel with the roof’s slope.
Ground-Mounted Systems
If your roof is unsuitable for solar panels or if you have more land than roof space, you can always opt for a ground-mounted solar panel system. With this type of system, solar panels are mounted on the ground using poles or frames.
Two types of ground-mounted systems include fixed ground mounts and tracking systems. A fixed ground mount involves positioning the panels at a fixed angle for optimized year-round performance. On the contrary, tracking systems are mounts that adjust the position of the panels throughout the day to mirror the sun’s movement for maximized efficiency.
Pole-Mounted Systems
Pole-mounted systems are usually used for larger solar panel installations, such as farms or spacious open fields. This type of installation involves mounting an array of solar panels to the top or side of poles.
Get the Most Out of Your Solar Panel Mounting System
Before you commit to having a company install solar panels on your home or business, it’s important to take factors like angle, durability, and aesthetics into consideration and plan for a successful solar panel mounting process.
The Importance of Angle
The tilt and orientation of your panels matters when it comes to efficiency. You’ll want to ensure your mounting system can be adjusted to allow for optimal sun exposure.
Prevent Wear and Tear
It’s important to do your research when selecting a solar panel mounting system. You'll want to make sure your system is made of materials that are built to last and can withstand harsh weather elements like wind, snow, and rain. If you choose well-built materials and hire a reliable company to install your solar panel system, you’re likely to get more bang for your buck.
Consider Aesthetics
Before having solar panels installed, you’ll also want to take aesthetics into consideration. It would be unfortunate to have a solar panel system installed that takes away from your home’s curb appeal. For this reason, it’s typical for the mounting system to blend in with a residential roof’s appearance for a more attractive appearance.
How Much Does Solar Panel Mounting Cost?
Having solar panels mounted usually costs about 10% of the total cost of an average solar system. For example, if your solar system costs $30,000, the mounting and racking portion would be about $3,000 of the total cost.
The overall cost will depend on the type and amount of equipment you use as well as the labor costs for installation.
Mounting Systems Keep Your Solar Panels in Place
If you’re planning to have solar panels installed, a mounting system will be an inevitable and essential part of that process. Whether your solar panels exist on the roof of your personal residence or on the ground of your large commercial property, the mounting system will ensure your panels are installed properly and positioned to capture the maximum amount of sunlight.
Interested in having solar panels installed at your residence? Get a free solar quote from the experts at Gexa Energy.
