Installing your own off grid solar power system is not that difficult, and with a few simple precautions you can make it even easier. Working with any kind of electricity carries with it a certain risk factor, so we’ve compiled this article to make sure our customers understand the best ways to keep themselves safe when installing our kits.
Here are some simple tips to ensure that your install is as quick and painless as possible, and that you’re prepared for issues afterward.
Prepare yourself properly beforehand:
- Ensure your components are undamaged - this is the first thing you should do when you receive the shipment. Damaged components pose a serious safety issue as they’re more likely to malfunction, and will not be very efficient even if they do still work.
- If you'll be working on a roof, wear a pair of good shoes that will give you a good grip, and clothing that will protect you from any cuts and scrapes, but still allows you to move freely.
- Remove all conductive items such as watches and metal jewellery before working with batteries.
- We recommend getting another person to help you out, both to make the job quicker and easier, and have someone around if you get hurt.
- Secure your ladder to the roof or make sure someone is holding it for you.
- Before you start, make sure you have read and understood all instructions and diagrams, especially wiring. Please reach out to us if you need any clarification.
Once you begin the installation:
- Stop working if the weather turns bad, as it will only make your job harder and more dangerous. The best times to work are early morning or evening, when the sun isn’t so bright. Cloudy days are perfect.
- If you are unsure about how something works, it’s best to stop and re-check the instructions with your kit, to prevent accidentally damaging any components. You can always call or message us, or reach out to a local electrician with solar knowledge to help you finish your installation.
- Our kits are designed to be DIY-friendly, but if you are wiring in a hybrid inverter or modifying anything 230V AC, you will need an electrician to complete and sign off the work.
After Installation:
- If you have to go back up on your roof for any reason, keep in mind that DC voltage will still be circulating through the panels if the sun is shining, so you may wish to cover them with something opaque as an extra precaution. Take care not to stand or lean on the panels, as they will likely be very hot, and you risk breaking them.
- If any component is behaving abnormally, don’t hesitate to contact us so we can help you troubleshoot or replace faulty goods under warranty. We recommend recording the readings from your charge controller over a couple days if you do notice changes, to help us track down the issue.
With this list, you should be well prepared to install your new GridFree kit both easily and safely. As mentioned above, we’re more than happy for you to contact us if you’re having any issues with your kit, or are unsure about anything. Message us on Facebook, flick an email to info@gridfree.store, or call us on 09 218 5533.
