A Complete Guide on How to Install a Solar Panel at Home

Writer：Kaysen

1. Set Up the Scaffolding

Scaffolding needs to be set up before installing the solar system. This step takes up the 

most time to build, usually about an entire day

These are required for the safety of the ones installing the panels.

If you’re not installing your solar panel system onto the roof, setting up any safety measures 

may take less time.

2. Install the Solar Panel Mounts

Once all safety measures are in place, it’s time to install the solar panel mounting system. 

This will hold your panels in place and provide a stable foundation for your solar system.

You’ll have to lift your roof tiles to install your mounting system onto the rafters of your 

loft. It must be tilted between 18 and 36 degrees so the solar PV panels can collect direct sunlight.

3. Mount the Solar Panels

Next, install the solar panels onto the mounting structure. Before securing them, 

position or tilt them properly to maximise the sun’s energy they can receive and absorb.

Ensure that you tighten all the bolts to keep the panels in place.

4. Secure the Electrical Wiring

The next step is setting up the electrical wiring, which can vary depending on the 

model. The most common are the MC4 connectors, which are compatible with most panels.

Most panels come pre-wired from the manufacturer for easier installation. However, 

it’s still best to have this step performed by a professional electrician.

SAFETY TIP: Ensure your household’s electricity is switched off before working on this step.

5. Connect the Solar Inverter

The solar inverter is installed near the main panel. It’s best not to mount this on the 

roof since it’s supposed to be located in a cool place without sunlight.

This part of the installation process can take about 4-6 hours, depending on the 

complexity of your solar panels.

It’s important to set this up properly because the direct current (DC) electricity will 

be converted to alternating current (AC) electricity.

Any system failures can cause fires and easily invalidate your home insurance

You can connect a generator meter to track how much electricity you generate daily

 with your solar panels.

6. Bond the Inverter to the Solar Battery

Then, you have to connect your solar inverter to the consumer unit to generate electricity.

Solar batteries can be considered as an extra cost by some people. It helps store 

excess energy and keep your home powered even 

when your whole system is affected by cloudy days.

Once everything is connected to the consumer unit and grid input, you can check 

the connected generation meter for its performance.

You can also use a computer to verify that your panels collect enough energy 

to power your home.

7. Test the Newly Installed Solar Panels

The installation process isn’t complete until you’ve tested the panels.

Switch the power back on and monitor each part. Ensure everything works and is 

properly producing energy.