Key Factors for Choosing the Best Solar Mount
Choosing effective solar mounts is critical, as the racking system often takes the most installation time to assemble, align, or attach. Selecting the right solar racking system can help save installation time and cost, keeping projects on schedule and on budget. It’s also essential to choose a mounting system that can withstand extreme weather conditions if installing in areas prone to severe weather.
Let’s explore the essentials for selecting the best solar mounts for your solar energy installation.
What is a Solar Racking System?
A solar racking system, also known as a solar mounting system, is typically made of stainless steel, aluminum, or carbon steel. It is used to hold the solar panels securely and can be set in either landscape or portrait orientation. In regions with heavy snowfall, installers often pitch solar panels at a steeper angle to allow snow to slide off the panels efficiently.
The Most Affordable Solar Racking Solution: Roof Solar Mounts
Roof solar mounting systems are generally the most affordable option, as they maximize the use of existing roof space. For properties with limited space, solar flat roof mounts can be an optimal choice, offering a streamlined and efficient solar solution. Solar mounts for flat roofs also provide flexibility for urban installations, allowing for straightforward setup without compromising space.
To maximize energy production, solar panels must be angled towards the sun. Most residential rooftops have a natural slope close to the optimal angle, making fixed solar mounts for flat roofs both cost-effective and practical.
The most common roof type for residential installations is the pitched roof. Solar systems are installed parallel to the roof’s angle, leaving a gap between the mounting structure and the solar PV panels for airflow. If this gap is too small, panels may overheat, reducing electricity production.
On flat roofs, PV panels are often pitched at a steeper angle than the roof itself, thanks to the racking system. Some customers may prefer to avoid roof penetrations, in which case a ballasted solar mounting system is ideal. Ballasted solar mounting systems use concrete blocks to secure the panels, eliminating the need for roof penetrations and preventing water leakage.
The Easiest Maintenance Option: Ground Solar Mounts
Compared to roof-mounted systems, ground mount solar installations can be more expensive as they require drilling or pounding into the ground. However, a ground-mounted solar setup may yield higher energy output per watt due to the ventilation advantage. Ground-mounted solar panels are positioned a few feet above the ground, allowing air to flow freely and keeping the system cooler for optimal efficiency. Maintenance is also easier since there’s no need to access the roof, making ground mounts a safe and convenient option.
Solar carports consist of overhead canopies built to cover parking areas, distinguishing them from panels installed onto existing carport structures. Solar carports share many similarities with ground mount solar systems and are highly suitable for large commercial and utility-scale solar projects.
Pole Mounted Systems
Pole-mounted solar panels maximize sun exposure, but they require ample ground space, making them ideal for commercial, agricultural, or large private installations.
Trackers Solar Racking System
A sun tracking solar panel mount can automatically follow the sun’s path, increasing solar energy output by 20-30% over fixed mounts. This advanced system is increasingly used in both residential and commercial projects due to its ability to optimize sunlight capture and enhance efficiency.
What Yuens Can Offer
As a trusted wholesale supplier, Yuens provides a wide range of reliable solar mounting systems, from roof and ground mounts to solar carports. We also offer customized molds tailored to specific project needs. For a full overview of our solar racking solutions, explore our product catalogue or reach out to us for more information.
