Both IronRidge and Blue Pacific Solar are trusted names in the solar panel mounting world.
Specializes in high-quality, durable mounting systems:** Think sturdy brackets for roofs, ground, or poles.
Installing solar racking is like assembling a child's bike at Christmas. Solar Panel racks can be attached to the roof, pole, or ground mount. Carefully follow the step-by-step instructions for installation. This will require a little effort but save you thousands of dollars compared to hiring it done.
Assembly and attachment of solar panels to the racking may seem difficult at first. However, you will quickly become accustomed to it. It is important to assess your options early in the decision process.
The location you choose will dictate the type of mounting hardware and methods you will be considering. Blue Pacific Solar's advisors often turn to IronRidge for their racking solution. This is due to the experience and variety of options the company offers to suit any situation.
Solar racking roof mounting is extremely popular. It is commonly used in this country to place solar systems on residential rooftops. Roofs are typically unused in houses. They are elevated above the trees and often unshaded, providing the best direct access to sunlight.
Another advantage is the roof is near the home's electrical system which can help to reduce material costs. Roof mount solar installations are often straightforward. They can usually be completed by someone with basic hand tools.
Evaluating the best location for solar racking can be challenging when the roof is involved. Poor solar panel orientating or numerous roof penetrations, such as
a chimney or plumbing stacks, can make it difficult. Consideration number two: Is there enough room on the roof for the solar panels?Solar racking is a popular installation method in America. It involves attaching the racking flush to the roof plane. Placing the modules close to the roof has several advantages, the least of which is aesthetics.
Position your solar panels close to the roof. This will reduce the impact of wind on the solar system structure. This will reduce the load on the system.
For roof racking, IronRidge roof mount systems is a reliable, comprehensive, and feature rich solar mounting solution. IronRidge roof mount platform is secured by IronRidge standard rails. It has all the components needed for any roof mount installation, no matter the roof type or pitch.
IronRidge solar racking offers several attachment options. These options can help you raise the panels off the roof. They can also help the panels blend in with the roof's design or composition.
Many solar installers and some homeowners attempt to maximize solar irradiance when installing solar systems. This is done by tilting the panels off the surface of the roof or angling them. This compensates for a less than ideal roof orientation.
Install a solar system with panels sticking out in all directions and your neighbors may not be too pleased. The second reason is the structural considerations of solar racking. Installing arrays on home roofs can create engineering challenges. This is because they can act like sails and become attached to the roof.
Tilt rack panel installations that are elevated require special engineering considerations that cannot be overlooked. The last but certainly not the least reason is the additional costs involved. Tilt racking uses more materials and will increase the installation time of the project.
Ground Mount Solar Racking is an ideal installation solution for homeowners who have sufficient space near their home. Ground mounted solar systems avoid most of the disadvantages of roof mounted solar racking and are sometimes easier for the installer.
Ground mount solar systems can be positioned to harvest the maximum amount of sunlight. This boosts the system's performance. It can be oriented in almost any direction.
Another advantage of ground mount solar racking is they operate cooler because of the increased air flow behind the panels. The shaded area beneath the solar panels is an ideal spot for the inverter. This device will convert DC electricity from the panels to AC electricity.
Solar Racking is a technique of mounting solar panels on the top of poles. This method has been used since the inception of solar energy. The most iconic applications are pole mount solar systems. They operate remote signs, lights and, in some cases, traffic signals.
The top-of-pole mount system is like a ground mount. The depth of the hole depends on wind loading, soil type and the number of solar panels.
These panels will then be mounted on the pole. Ground mount solar systems operate at cooler temperatures than other systems. This helps to maximize the amount of electricity produced. Top-of-pole arrays are an example of this.
Installing solar systems on ground racking may be difficult, but the long-term advantages are worth the effort. You'll reap the rewards for years to come.
So you want to maximize the performance
from your residential solar array. If you are going to install a grid-tied ground mount that angle is roughly your latitude minus 10 deg in summer, or latitude plus 10 deg in winter. For fixed
ground mount you should favor latitude minus 10-deg or favor the summer sun. For off-grid systems that are used year-round, you’ll want something closer to winter angle (steeper). Off-grid systems
are challenged in the winter, so you want the best performance possible during the limited daylight time.
Overall, don't get too hung up on trying to fine-tune the exact angle or orientation of your solar system. The Sandia National Laboratory did a very interesting study which details tilt angles vs. orientation. South facing at 7:12 roof angle delivered the most energy. They then charted east facing to west facing and discovered the most you would lose direct east or west is 45 degrees off south is 12%. SE or SW is about 8%. A few bird droppings on your panels can make you array lose more that east or west facing panels. As long as you keep your panels in at least 6 hours of full sun (No Shading), solar panel energy production is not that fussy about the angle. For residential installations 10 kW or less, plus or minus 10 degrees in tilt or orientation will make less than 3% difference in yearly energy harvest. So flush mount racking on a typical 4/12 (18°) or 5/12 (23°), 4" to 6" off of a residential roof is almost ideal for most of the USA.
Installing solar panels using an IronRidge racking system involves several steps. Keep in mind that this is a general guide, and it's crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by IronRidge for your particular system. Additionally, local regulations and building codes may influence the installation process, so be sure to check with your local authorities.
Determine the optimal placement of solar panels on your roof, considering factors such as shade, orientation, and local regulations. Calculate the number of rails needed based on the size and layout of your solar array.
Install Roof Attachments:Attach FlashFoot2 or Tile Replacement Mounts to the roof using appropriate anchors or fasteners. Make sure to follow IronRidge's specific instructions for your roof type. Install L-Feet or T-Bolts:
Attach L-feet or T-bolts to the roof attachments.These will support the rails. Install Rails:
Attach the rails to the L-feet or T-bolts using the XR100 or XR1000 mounting hardware. Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the specified torque value provided by IronRidge.
Attach Mid Clamps:Place mid clamps along the rails at predetermined intervals, depending on your solar panel dimensions. Tighten the mid clamps to secure the solar panels in place.
Install Solar Panels:Mount the solar panels onto the mid clamps. Connect the panels according to the manufacturer's instructions and local electrical codes.
Ground the System:Install the grounding components as per local electrical codes and IronRidge guidelines. Check and Adjust:
Use a level to ensure that the solar panels are properly aligned.Double-check all connections, bolts, and clamps to ensure they are secure.
Secure Wiring:Secure the wiring along the rails and conduit, following best practices for cable management.
Complete Documentation:Keep detailed documentation of the installation, including any variations from the standard procedure. Always refer to IronRidge's installation manuals and guidelines for your specific racking system and consult with a qualified electrician for electrical work. Additionally, it's recommended to have the installation inspected by the relevant authorities to ensure compliance with local codes and regulations.
IronRidge and Blue Pacific Solar are both reputable companies that provide mounting solutions for solar panels. IronRidge specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality solar racking systems, while Blue Pacific Solar offers a wide range of solar products and services, including mounting solutions.
IronRidge offers a variety of mounting solutions that are known for their durability, versatility, and ease of installation. Their product line includes roof mounts, ground mounts, and pole mounts. These mounting systems are designed to securely hold solar panels in place while withstanding various weather conditions. IronRidge's mounting solutions are often praised for their compatibility with different panel types and roof types, making them suitable for a wide range of solar installations.
Blue Pacific Solar, on the other hand, is a solar energy company that offers comprehensive solar solutions, including mounting systems. While they may not manufacture their own mounting solutions, they partner with reputable manufacturers to provide high-quality options for their customers. Blue Pacific Solar works closely with their clients to assess their specific needs and recommend the most suitable mounting solution for their solar panel installation.
When choosing between IronRidge and Blue Pacific Solar mounting solutions, it is important to consider your specific requirements, such as the type of roof or ground surface you have, the size and orientation of your solar array, and the environmental conditions in your area. It's recommended to consult with solar professionals or contact the companies directly to discuss your project and get expert advice on the most appropriate mounting solution for your specific needs.
