We hear it all the time– "I’d love to switch to solar, but I just don’t have time for a huge project right now." 

If that sounds like you, this article lays down the facts about a solar installation. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect and whether solar is as time-consuming as you might think.

So, how long does a solar installation actually take? Is it weeks of back-and-forth, or is it quicker than you might expect? Let’s break it down step by step—starting with what happens at your very first meeting with a solar company.

How long does it take to install solar panels?

In a moment, we’ll chat about the timeline for the average solar installation. But, before we dive in, it’s important to note that while the average solar installation takes around three months, the process can vary by installer and the timeline for getting certain permits could depend on your location and any necessary site repairs needed.

Now, let’s jump into what an average solar installation looks like with Mpower Solar for residents of New York City:

Day One: 

Typically, the first step in the process is a personalized consultation. If you book an appointment with an installer online, they might schedule a rep to come to your house to provide you with a proposal in person. In other cases, you might receive a knock on your door from a solar installation rep. If this happens – don’t fret! Door knocking is common in the solar industry. If you speak to the rep and like what you hear, the rep might even be able to handle your consultation right then so that you don’t have to wait. Either way, your personalized proposal will detail product offerings, layout, financing options, and more information about your future savings.

Days 2-3: 

Your installation company will send a skilled site technician to your home to conduct a site survey, confirm the layout of your solar system, and guide you through finishing any paperwork.

Days 4-5: 

The installation team will return to your home to conduct a thorough assessment of your roof, electric system, and property. Afterwards, they might inform you of site prep that needs to be completed before the installation of your solar panels begins. In the case you do need site prep, your site technician should handle setting up the preparations for you.

Days 6-11: 

Within a week of your site assessment, the solar installer’s repair team will return to complete any necessary fixes to your site. There are two important things to keep in mind here. One is that your site may not require repairs at all, may require small repairs, or may require a large repair project. Any outcome will affect the overall timeline of your solar installation. Second, if your solar installer works with third party repair teams, your installation may take longer than anticipated. If you’d like your solar panels as fast as possible, look for an installer like MPower Solar who has their own, inhouse repair teams to prioritize the speed at which your repairs are completed, and your panels are installed.

Days 12-19: 

After all applications have been signed and reviewed by you and your installer, your dedicated coordinator will secure the necessary permits for your solar installation. During this time, you should be able to sit back, relax, and let your installation company handle the hard stuff. Just be sure to collect and file any finalized paperwork for safekeeping.

Days 20-27: 

Finally, the fun part! The solar company will schedule your solar panel installation, which could last one or two days depending on the size of your system. Once installed, your installer will contact your local building department for the final inspection of your system. Your installer will also be on-site during the final inspection to answer any questions the building department may have.

And voila! In less than a month, you could be enjoying the perks of sustainable energy and secured savings.

Solar panels and roof repair

With the timeline of a typical NYC solar installation, let’s quickly touch on everyone’s favorite subject: roofs. Yup, like the roof of your home.

A major question many homeowners have before deciding to go solar is: “Will I have to replace my roof?”

We wish we could give you a yes or no answer – but it’s not that simple. One thing is certain, and ConsumerAffairs says it best – you can’t replace a roof while it has solar panels on it.

This means that if you need a new roof at any point while you have solar panels installed on it, the panel system will need to come down for the new roof to be installed. The system can then be reinstalled once the roof project is complete. And yes, the take off and second install of your system will cost you money.

Something to keep in mind is that, like solar panels, a roof should last you 25+ years. In the case that your roof is in that upper age range while you’re considering a solar installation, it’s best to move forward with getting a new roof put on before your solar system is installed.

During your initial site inspection, your solar installation company will take a close look at your roof and provide guidance on whether they think installing a new roof is your best option  – or if you can stick with the one you have. 

It’s important to note that many third-party roofing companies will want to replace your entire roof, even if only one small area is flagged as an issue. Be sure to ask your solar installer if they work with a third-party roofing company or if they have an in-house roofing team. An in-house team like Mpower Solar’s will be more likely to patch and repair your roof as needed, rather than charging you for an entirely new one.

After your solar installation

Great – your solar system and roof are squared away. Now let’s talk about what happens after the installation occurs. How much time will you have to put in to ensure that your solar system is working properly?

Now that answer is straightforward – not much.

For instance, every MPower Solar customer begins their green energy journey with access to the Enphase app, which is accessible right from their phone. The app allows them to monitor their system status and know exactly how much energy their system is producing at any given time.

Our customers have shared that they become slightly obsessed with checking the app. This app shows exactly how much your system is producing versus how much your home is consuming, which can be fun numbers to see. However, they also admit to the honeymoon stage wearing off – mostly once they see their production numbers rise higher than their consumption – and back off the app knowing that their solar panels are doing their job. 

We suggest checking into the app at least once a month to ensure everything is good to go.

Solar Panel Maintenance

It’s rare that your solar panels will need maintenance. It’s more likely that they’ll need a light cleaning once in a while to remove any dust, dirt, or debris that might collect on them – which could prevent sun from reaching your panels at the rate it needs to be.

According to SolarReviews, animals nesting under your system is another reason your system might need maintenance. The good news is that there are products called solar critter guards you can purchase and install to keep tiny critters out and sunlight in.

In the unfortunate event you need professional help with panel maintenance, give your solar installer a call. The most reputable companies will take care of you for the lifetime of your system and send someone out as soon as possible to assess the repairs your system requires. Of course, how long the actual repair takes depends on what needs to be fixed.

Shedding Light

So, there you have it! While going solar might seem like a big project at first, the reality is that the process is pretty streamlined, often taking just a few weeks from start to finish! And once your system is up and running, maintenance is minimal, letting you enjoy the savings without the hassle.

But now, I want to hear from you, what’s the biggest concern holding you back from switching to solar? I'll be reading your comments!