If you’re planning a roof replacement and have a solar panel system installed, careful preparation is essential to ensure the process goes smoothly. Solar panels are a significant investment, and removing and reinstalling them correctly is critical to preserving both the roof and the solar system. Here’s a guide to help you prepare for solar panel removal and reinstallation during a roof replacement.
1. Contact a Professional Solar Contractor
The first step is to contact a professional solar contractor to handle the removal and reinstallation. It’s important to hire someone experienced with solar systems, preferably the original installer if possible. Attempting to remove solar panels on your own or relying on roofing contractors without solar expertise can lead to damage to the panels, wiring, or your roof.
2. Coordinate With Your Roofing Contractor
It’s crucial to coordinate the timing between your roofing contractor and your solar contractor. Your solar panels must be removed before any roofing work begins, and they’ll need to be reinstalled once the roof is completed. Plan ahead to ensure both contractors are available on the same timeline, minimizing any downtime for your solar energy production.
3. Plan for Temporary Power Alternatives
While your solar panels are off the roof, your home will rely solely on grid electricity. If you’re used to relying heavily on your solar power, especially in Florida’s sunny climate, it’s important to prepare for a temporary increase in your electricity bill. Be mindful of your energy consumption during this period, and consider setting aside extra funds to cover the cost.
4. Inspect and Maintain Your Solar System
Since your panels will be off the roof during the replacement, this is an excellent opportunity to inspect and maintain your solar system. Have your contractor check for any wear and tear on the panels, wiring, or inverters. Cleaning the panels can also enhance their efficiency once reinstalled. Taking advantage of this downtime can extend the lifespan and performance of your solar system.
5. Understand the Costs Involved
Be aware of the costs associated with removing and reinstalling your solar panels. This service typically ranges between $1,500 to $6,000 depending on the system’s size, complexity, and your location. Request multiple quotes and ensure the price includes both removal and reinstallation.
By following these steps and working with experienced professionals, you can ensure that your solar panel removal and reinstallation process is seamless, protecting your investment while upgrading your roof.
This post was written by a professional at EHS. https://www.goehs.com/ of St. Petersburg FL is a solar energy company offering a variety of services. At Efficient Home Services of Florida, our mission is to save you money. No other home energy company serving Florida offers the range of cost-saving solutions that we do. Whereas other businesses might focus on one component of a home’s energy use, such as solar panel installation or HVAC unit installation, EHS provides services across the spectrum to address every aspect of your home’s energy inefficiencies. We are a team of knowledgeable professionals who banded together to give homeowners what other companies promised but could not deliver – real relief from high electric bills.