- 1). Examine the exterior of your house to determine the best location to install the solar panels. Ideally, the solar panels should be positioned in such a way that they will receive the maximum daily sun exposure possible. You may have to prune back tree branches and/or cut away other vegetation that cast shadows on your roof.
- 2). Locate the studs in your roof with a stud finder, which can be purchased at your local hardware store. (Skip this step if your home is being re-roofed.)
- 3). Mark a straight line with a chalk line across the top of the rafters. The solar panels will be attached to the bolts in the rafters and hung along the top of the rafters. Drill holes along the chalk line, and with a screwdriver attach stainless steel lags on which the solar panels will be mounted.
- 4). Repeat Step 3 if you are installing multiple solar panels.
- 5). Line up each solar panel with the mounts on your roof and secure them as directed with the hardware that came specifically with the solar panels you purchased. Ensure that you allow space for sufficient air flow between the back of each of the solar panels and the roof, a minimum of 3 to 6 inches is recommended.
- 6). Attach all of the solar panels together by connecting the wires inside the junction box of each solar panel. Ensure that all of the solar panels are grounded properly and meet local electrical codes after they are all connected. If you are unsure of how to do this, consult a licensed electrician.