More people in the UK are installing solar panels and some who already have them are thinking about expanding. If you have an existing solar power system and wish to add more solar panels, this blog will guide you through the process.

 

Assess Your Current Solar System 

Before proceeding with any modifications, it is crucial to evaluate your existing solar system. Take note of the following aspects:

  • Total energy consumption: To understand how much electricity your solar panels generate and how much additional power you require, you need to evaluate your current energy usage.
  • Available space: When considering installing new solar panels, it is important to carefully assess the available space on your roof or property. It is essential that this space receives sufficient sunlight throughout the day in order to maximize the effectiveness of the solar panels.
  • Solar inverter capacity: It is important to check if your solar inverter can handle the extra power from the new panels. If it does not, you may need to consider upgrading your inverter or installing an additional one.

 

Calculate Your Energy Needs

You have to determine how much additional electricity you require and how many solar panels are necessary to meet that demand.

Typically, a standard 60-cell solar panel generates around 250 to 370 watts of electricity, while a 72-cell panel produces around 300 to 450 watts. Divide your energy needs by the wattage of the panels you intend to use to get the number of panels required.

 

Choose the Right Solar Panels

Selecting the right solar panels is crucial for optimizing your system’s performance. To maintain consistency, try to use panels from the same manufacturer and model as your existing ones. However, if the previous panels are no longer available, choose new panels with similar specifications, efficiency, and voltage ratings. Please keep in mind about one aspect that is the number of solar panels allowed in your house and area.

 

Evaluate the Wiring and Inverter System

If you are considering adding more solar panels to your system, it is important to be aware that this may require changes to your electrical configuration. Before proceeding, it is recommended that you review your current wiring and inverter setup to ensure they are capable of accommodating the increased capacity.

If you are not sure or don’t have enough expertise, it’s best to find a professional solar installer in the UK who can check if your system is compatible.

 

Seek Professional Assistance

Though adding solar panels to an existing system might seem straightforward, it involves complex electrical work.

To avoid potential hazards and ensure proper integration, it is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified solar installation company in the UK. They can assess your system, make necessary adjustments, and ensure that your solar array functions optimally and safely.

 

Obtain Necessary Permits

If you want to expand your solar system, you may require permits and approvals from your local authorities. Check with your municipality or homeowner’s association to ensure you comply with all regulations before starting the installation process.

 

Install And Integrate The New Solar Panels

To install the new solar panels, you need to have the necessary components and tools. This process involves mounting the panels securely on your roof or property and connecting them to the existing electrical system.

 

Monitor And Maintain

After the installation, regularly monitor the performance of your expanded solar system. Most modern solar inverters come with monitoring capabilities, which allow you to track energy production and detect any issues promptly.

 

End Note:

So, the answer to the question “how to add solar panels to an existing system” comes with a few considerations that we have discussed above. Expanding your existing solar system with additional solar panels is an excellent way to enhance your renewable energy generation and reduce dependence on the grid.

By carefully evaluating your energy needs, choosing compatible components, and seeking professional assistance. Contact Arc One, a professional solar panel installer, today. They can calculate all the necessary requirements and install solar panels to make this process easier and faster. This ensures you can continue to embrace the power of solar energy and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come.