PV solar panel kits and fitting guide for the UK.
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Self-install PV solar panel kits
These premium PV solar panels, also known as photovoltaic systems, are today's solar technology of choice for homeowners across the world.
DIY PV solar panel kits.
MCS approved components and parts.
View schematicsA-frames are available for ground-mounted systems.
When working with heights, electrics and plumbing, you should always use correct safety equipment. Use professional MCS installers if you're not sure.
The difference between the two types:
Monocrystalline
This type of installation includes thin slices cut from a single crystal of silicon and have a typical efficiency of 15% conversion Average rating of 250-300 watts per panel.
Polycrystalline
This type of installation also includes thin slices cut from silicon crystals and have a typical efficiency of 12% conversion Average 180-200 watts per panel.
A guide to self-installing photovoltaic panels
"Health and safety should always be your main priority when self-installing PV solar panels. Work alongside a roofer or MCS electrician if unqualified."
If installing on a roof, it is essential to specify which type of roof covering, i.e. Slate or tile, before ordering your kit.
1. The need for scaffolding is paramount to create a safe working platform with roofing ladders to help protect your roof surface. A handy tip to help plan your work area is to measure the roof space from the inside of the loft space and the internal routing of your wires to the main board.
Locating your 'inverter' next to your planned wire entry area is advisable to keep the wiring length as short as possible. Most installations have the inverter fixed within the loft space, but easy access to the isolation switch is essential.
With your internal measurements in hand, you can plan the locations of the 'PV solar panels' on the roof while keeping the edges of the panels away from the apex, side and gutter edges as much as possible.
2. Carefully remove individual tiles/slates to fix your roof anchors to the underlying battens while measuring the diagonal distances between the top left and bottom right. This procedure will ensure they are correctly square. Clamp the aluminium 'horizontal rails' while checking they're square before committing to the final clamp down.
The best part of this installation is fixing each photovoltaic panel while connecting in series, routing and securing the wiring as each PV panel is attached to the array. A microfiber cloth is handy to wipe down as you go. Run the wire under the tile or slate, but add additional protection for the cable, so it does not move around and wear down the wires insulation sheaf.
3. Run your wiring down to your inverter's location. This component can be secured to an additional board to house the inverter in your desired loft location. Keep the installation along the full distance to a minimum and ensure and protect using 'plastic box guard' along the run if necessary.
Locate the' isolation switch' alongside the main board and check the existing equipment is updated and conforms to modern standards before the connection. The 'credit meter' can be installed between the isolation switch and the mains board wire run.
4. Set up the credit meter settings and double-check all the connections and fixings for standards compliance.
5. Enjoy a cup of tea made with your first solar-powered electricity. You have now joined a growing army of people who benefit from solar panels.
Author.
"Forward with confidence."
Stuart Lovatt
Founder of Power My Home.
