Installing solar panels takes far less time than most people assume. From your initial consultation to switching on your solar power, the process usually takes about 2-6 months.
However, there is a common misconception that it can take longer than 6 months for installation to be completed. Recent solar-friendly policies and experienced solar installers can provide a streamlined installation timeline.
The installation itself actually takes 3 days or less for most homes, and the entire solar situation usually takes only a couple of months to complete.
How long does it take to get solar panels installed? We’re here to provide a clear answer and a breakdown of the timeline you can expect.
The Solar Installation Process
First, let’s take a look at the entire solar installation process. This begins with your initial consultation and ends when your home is being powered by installed solar panels.
- Initial consultation (1 hour)
- Home assessment (1-3 hours)
- Obtaining permits and approvals (3-8 weeks)
- Ordering Equipment (1-4 weeks)
- Installation (1-3 days)
- Final inspection (1-3 hours)
- Final connection and activation (1 hour)
Looking at this timeline, you can see that the process is likely to take a minimum of 6 weeks and a maximum of 3 months, in which permitting – not the solar installation itself – is the most time-consuming step.
Getting Started: Home Consultation and Assessment
When you begin your solar installation process, you will be invited to schedule a home consultation and site assessment. We can tell you what to expect from the solar home evaluation. You will then discuss your household energy needs and goals.
During the assessment, your solar team will ask you what you hope to achieve with your solar: How much power you need, whether you want batteries, and so on.
During the home evaluation, installers will assess your roof’s location, direction, and condition. They will also assess your home’s electrical system for a future solar connection.
Navigating Permits and Approval
Your solar team will then tackle the process of getting permits and approvals. You might need:
- local building permits
- electrical permits
- HOA approval
- Utility company application
Clearing solar with your HOA ahead of time can help to speed up the process.
Installation Day: What to Expect
When the solar panels you ordered have arrived, it’s time to schedule your installation day. Solar installation typically takes 1-3 days. First, your team will install the mounting system, then secure the solar panels to the roof.
Each solar panel will be connected to the others using durable outdoor wiring and connected to a solar controller system. Functionality and balance will be tested to ensure the installation is safely complete.
Factors that would affect your installation time include the size of your roof, the roof’s type, roof condition, and the weather on installation days.
Powering Up
Final approval from the utility company is all that lies between you and powering up. Your solar installation team will perform final inspections, set up solar monitoring, and show you how to use your new solar setup once you are generating power.
You will learn how to monitor solar generation and determine how much power your solar panels are providing each day. If you have batteries, they will show you how to monitor their available power. If you have net metering, you will learn about how and when power might flow back to the power company for credits.
Preparing for Your Solar Upgrade
Understanding why timelines can vary for different homes and why the long-term benefits of solar panels are ultimately worth it. Contact us today to get a custom solar panel system that meets your home’s unique energy needs.
