Using Schletter PV Mounting Solutions in Challenging Commercial Applications
Solar installation work on commercial buildings can be complex, time-consuming, and risky if not handled the right way. The first step in ensuring that the work is done properly is to pick the right mounting solution.
Most commercial buildings in the country have accessible rooftops. However, these rooftops come with some unique challenges. One of the main challenges is that most commercial rooftops have a low tilt. One of the downsides of installing a solar array on a roof without a proper tilt is that it limits solar exposure. Another downside is that it could lead to debris accumulation on the solar panels, which consequently limits their electric output. We recommend at least 7 degrees of tilt to ensure self-cleaning of the panels.
Another challenge with commercial roofs is that there are often obstacles on the roof. You will find that there are vents, exhaust fans, heat pumps, skylights, and other obstacles on the roof. While these obstacles present a challenge and health and safety risks, they are possible to overcome. With the right mounting solutions, professional approach and Site Specific Safety Plan, commercial rooftop solar job can still can go smoothly, even those challenging ones.
Why choosing the right mounting matters?
Longer Lifespan
Mounting typically accounts for just 20% of the total cost of a solar system. However, installation of the solar mounting is crucial to optimal use of a solar system and integrity of the building. The reason for this is that if the mounting fails, the entire system fails plus there may be liabilities related to the roof leak. Mounting is also one of the most labor-intensive processes in a commercial solar installation. As such, it is important to get it right the first time. So paying a bit more for high-quality mounting will save you in a long run.
A solar mounting system is what physically connects the solar array to the roof. It is a crucial component of any solar system. It is important to choose the brand that is warranted for at least 25 years, with minimal maintenance requirements. It is designed to take on major environmental stresses that include wind load, heat waves, hail, and more.
Simply using the cheapest solution out there can lead to major financial costs over the lifespan of the system. To ensure that your clients enjoy the benefits of solar power for years to come, it is important to avoid the approach of installing the cheapest solution possible.
Avoid Galvanic Corrosion
Galvanic corrosion is something that often occurs when the wrong solar mounting solution is used. Simply put, it is a type of electro-chemical process, which causes one metal to corrode another in its proximity. It usually occurs in a solar mounting system when the wrong types of materials are used together in a solar mounting system.
If galvanic corrosion occurs, it can seriously affect the life of the whole system. The solar panels can wobble out of their optimal direction due to wind, for instance, causing them to lose efficiency. In a solar system, efficiency is defined as the fraction of sunlight that is converted into electric energy. With the right mounting system, it can help to lower the total cost of ownership of the system over its lifetime. It is especially important for a commercial system, where the bottom-line is the most important consideration.
Also if the project is close to the seaside, corrosion can be devastating if the mounting systems is poor.
Ease of Installation
Besides durability, another important consideration is the ease of installation. The right solar mounting system will ensure that the technicians have the easiest time possible installing the solar panels on the roof. It makes it easy for them to adjust the solar system to ensure optimal output by the entire solar system. With an easier installation, not only does it cut the man-hours needed to do a job, but it also cuts the risk of accidents since fewer tools are needed to do the job. Consequently, it cuts the risk of liability due to injury. Doing so ensures that your best crew are always available to handle the next job.
Low Failure Rate
As an installer, one of the best ways to get new business is to ensure that previous work does not fail within days of being completed. Not only can it lead to clients complains, but it can also affect the probability of getting future work. Using the right mounting solutions could ensure that your work stays in place once the job is done. Consequently, it could lead to future “word of mouth” generated jobs.
The Schletter PV Mounting Solution
All of the benefits mentioned above can be realized by using the Schletter PV mounting solution. One solar system installer who had the opportunity to use the system had nothing but praise for it. A major benefit of the Schletter railing system is components are designed to stay in place, as Chris says ion the video.
Another benefit of this mounting solution is the ease of adjustment. Adjusting the height of the system can be done with just one click, which makes it easy to set the panels in the optimal position. The ease of adjustment ensures that it is great for self-cleaning and aesthetics. Another major advantage of Schletter is that it comes with built-in bonding. Doing so minimizes the need for additional moving parts. Doing so minimizes the amount of time needed to install solar panels.
With most commercial rooftops, it is usually not possible to use supporting stands to adjust the elevation of the panels. Not only is it not economical, but it is also not structurally sound due to the heavier loads placed on the roof. With Schletter’s mounting solution, a simple fix to the elevation issue is possible.
Summary
No matter how complex a commercial roof installation might seem, modern solar mounting technology means that a solution is always within reach. Get in touch with us, we can help assessing the rooftop space and suggest the best solution from Schletter. With the right technology, almost all commercial roofs can be modified for fitting a solar array.