What 100 Solar Projects Taught Me: Inside the Installer’s Mind
What 100 Solar Projects Taught Me
Over the years, I’ve installed and overseen more than 100 solar projects — from small residential rooftops to large commercial systems. Each project came with its own challenges, surprises, and learning opportunities.
Looking back, I realized that success isn’t just about using high-quality panels or expensive inverters. It’s about the installer’s mindset, careful planning, and attention to small details that most techs overlook.
In this post, I’m sharing the top lessons I’ve learned from hundreds of panels, thousands of meters of cable, and countless satisfied clients. These are insights you won’t find in manuals or classroom training — only in the field.
1. Plan Every Watt Before You Start
The most common reason systems underperform is poor planning. Before touching a panel or inverter, I always:
- Measure client loads.
- Check roof orientation and tilt.
- Calculate expected energy harvest.
Pro Tip: Use a solar sizing tool like Globisun to simulate system output. It saves time and ensures your installation meets real-world needs.
2. Every Roof Has Its Own Challenges
No two roofs are alike. Some have uneven surfaces, tricky obstructions, or hidden water drainage issues.
Lesson Learned: Adaptability is key. Bring extra mounting hardware and flexible solutions — don’t force a panel into place.
3. Wiring Isn’t Sexy, But It’s Everything
Many techs underestimate the impact of wiring. Voltage drops, loose connectors, and poor cable management silently drain system efficiency.
Field Tip: Always calculate cable gauge, tighten all MC4 connectors, and maintain clear separation between DC and AC lines. A well-wired system lasts longer and performs better.
4. Don’t Ignore Shading
Even small shadows can reduce output dramatically. In one project, a tiny chimney shadow was reducing array efficiency by 15%.
Pro Tip: Map sun paths throughout the day and use optimizers or microinverters for partially shaded roofs. Tools like Globisun can simulate shading and adjust layout accordingly.
5. Tilt and Orientation Matter More Than You Think
Panels need the right angle and direction for maximum sunlight exposure. A few degrees off can reduce daily energy harvest significantly.
Lesson Learned: Always calculate tilt based on latitude and optimize azimuth for your location. Minor adjustments can boost output by 10–20%.
6. Educate Your Clients
A solar system can only perform if the client understands it. I always explain:
- Daily consumption limits.
- Maintenance routines.
- Monitoring tools.
Tip: Clients who understand their system are happier and more likely to refer you.
7. Maintenance Isn’t Optional
Dust, debris, and bird droppings quietly lower efficiency. Regular panel cleaning and periodic inspection are essential for keeping systems at peak performance.
Pro Tip: Offer a maintenance plan as part of your service. It keeps clients happy and ensures your systems perform long-term.
8. Test Everything Before Leaving
Even if the system looks perfect, test performance under load. Check inverter readings, panel voltages, and battery health.
Lesson Learned: One overlooked loose connection can cost efficiency and client trust.
9. Keep Detailed Records
Document every installation detail:
- Panel batch numbers.
- Inverter settings.
- String configurations.
- Cable routing.
This comes in handy for troubleshooting, future upgrades, and warranty claims. Globisun can help log system configurations digitally.
10. Learn From Every Project
Every installation is a classroom. Even if it went perfectly, review it:
- What went smoothly?
- What slowed you down?
- How could efficiency be improved?
The best installers constantly refine their methods.
Conclusion: The Installer’s Mindset Is the Secret Ingredient
Success in solar isn’t just about equipment or tech specs — it’s about thinking like a solar installer. Careful planning, attention to detail, smart client education, and ongoing learning are what separate good installs from great ones.
And with tools like Globisun, you can combine real-world experience with precise solar sizing, shading analysis, and performance tracking — ensuring every system delivers its full potential.
Because behind every successful solar project is an installer who thinks, adapts, and constantly improves.
