Solar 101: Site Survey

The Importance of Site Surveys for a Seamless Solar Installation: A Guide by Supreme Solar

At Supreme Solar, we believe in providing top-notch solar solutions that maximize energy efficiency and sustainability. To ensure a seamless solar installation process, we emphasize the importance of conducting thorough site surveys. Site surveys are an essential step in gathering vital information that allows us to create accurate structural and electrical plans. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of conducting a site survey, highlighting the tools required, step-by-step instructions, and the key elements to include in the survey report. By following these guidelines, our dedicated team can guarantee a smooth and successful solar installation tailored to your unique requirements.

Tools Required

Before embarking on a site survey, our skilled technicians at Supreme Solar come equipped with the necessary tools. These tools include a sturdy ladder for safe roof access, flathead and Phillips screwdrivers for accessing electrical panels, a measuring tape for precise measurements, and a smartphone or camera for capturing essential photographs.

Conducting the Site Survey

To ensure a thorough site survey, our technicians at Supreme Solar follow a meticulous step-by-step process. Let’s dive into each step in detail:

1. Start at the main service panel: The main service panel is the heart of your electrical system. Our technicians locate the panel, typically situated on the side of your house, and capture a clear photograph. This image serves as a reference point for future installations and upgrades.
2. Main panel wall photo: Understanding the layout of the main panel wall is crucial for accurate equipment placement during installation. Our technicians capture a photo of the main panel wall to determine the optimal positions for components such as inverters and combiner boxes.
3. Main panel label: In newer panels, a label is usually present, providing essential information about the electrical system. Our technicians photograph this label to record important details, including the bus reading on the electrical panel. This information plays a vital role in assessing the system’s capacity and ensuring code compliance.
4. Attic or eave photos: Determining the spacing of two-by-fours (truss or rafters) in the attic is crucial for designing structural plans. Our technicians inspect the eave underneath the roof, capturing photos to assess the spacing, which is typically 24 inches on center. This information is relayed to our engineering team for precise system design.
5. Sub panel details: If your property has a sub panel or additional breakers in another location, we gather this information for a comprehensive understanding of your electrical setup. Our technicians photograph the sub panel and record details about the breakers, enabling us to integrate them seamlessly into the overall solar system.
6. Roof assessment: Understanding the characteristics of your roof is essential for determining the most suitable mounting system. Our technicians capture a photo of the entire roof surface to assess its type and condition. In the case of tiled roofs, they also lift one tile to determine if there is underlying wood (OSB). This knowledge guides our installation team in selecting the appropriate mounting solution and ensures a secure and durable solar installation.
7. Dead plate: The dead plate, or panel cover, conceals the wiring within the electrical panel. Our technicians carefully remove the dead plate using flathead or Phillips screwdrivers to capture photos of the internal wiring. These images provide a clear view of the electrical connections, allowing our team to plan and implement the solar system effectively.
8. Ground mount area (if applicable): In some cases, ground-mounted solar systems may be the ideal solution for your property. If this applies to your project, our technicians photograph the area designated for the ground mount installation. Additionally, they record an overview video, explaining installation details and taking necessary measurements. These visuals help our engineering team design and position the ground mount system for maximum efficiency.
9. Trench path (if applicable): If a trench is required to connect components of the solar system, our technicians document the trench path. They record a video while walking the path, counting steps to provide an estimate of the distance. The trench’s route is tracked back to the main service panel or sub panel, ensuring a well-planned and concealed conduit for electrical wiring.
10. Battery installation (if applicable): For customers opting for battery backup systems, our technicians capture photos of the planned battery placement and the location for the critical load panel. These images help our team design a robust backup system tailored to your specific needs, ensuring uninterrupted power supply during grid outages.

Conclusion