Our Residential Solar Installation Steps

Our Solar Panel Installation Process

solar installation on roof and on ground

RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION

After you and your Trifecta Solar expert discuss your goals, possible backup power needs, and complete an energy-use analysis, your installer will conduct an initial site evaluation. This is when we launch the actual solar panel installation process.

While the actual installation of solar panels might only take a few days, the entire process from initial consultation to system activation generally takes 60 to 90 days.

Following are typical residential solar installation steps:

Stage 1: Site Assessment & Feasibility

Before any installation begins, we evaluate if your home is a strong candidate for solar.

We identify the ideal panel location (either on your roof or as a ground-mounted solar system). If roof-mounted solar panels will be used, we measure your roof’s direction and tilt, and analyze potential shading.
Using EPA’s RERH Solar Site Assessment Tool, we verify that your site meets the minimum solar resource potential.
You receive a plain-language summary explaining how solar installation works for your specific property.

Stage 2: System Design & Engineering

With a suitable site confirmed, we design a custom solar system that’s both safe and efficient.

Our solar installation experts create a layout tailored to your roof’s structure (or ground design) and sun exposure.
We verify your roof can support the system’s weight and plan for safety compliance. For ground systems, we may need to assess soil conditions and spacing for optimal performance.
We install labeled conduits and prepare your electrical panel, for a smooth connection between panels, inverter, and home.

Financing & Incentives

For residential solar projects, it’s ideal to own your solar energy system, gaining full control over incentives like your federal 30% tax credit. But if you are not in a financial position to pay cash or pay in full at the time of installation, you could turn to a home improvement loan or home equity loan.

There are banks that offer solar-specific programs like FastTrack and FastTrack Deferred to simplify the process.

At Trifecta Solar, we can help you navigate solar financing. We partner with reputable lenders to help you find the right solar loan. Our team will walk you through your options and handle the detail, so you can enjoy clean energy without the stress.

And remember: By installing solar panels, you produce your own electricity directly from your rooftop, eliminating dependence on fluctuating market rates or capacity auctions — and securing a consistent, lower energy cost for years to come.

Stage 3: Permitting & Utility Approval

Navigating paperwork is part of the solar panel installation process, and we handle it for you.

We submit required building and electrical permits based on your municipality.

We file the interconnection application with your utility company.

Once approved and inspected, we secure Permission to Operate (PTO), enabling net metering and grid connection.

Stage 4: Solar Energy Equipment Procurement & Delivery

Trifecta Solar coordinates everything, providing quality and timeliness.

We select the right panels, inverters, and racking for your home.

We manage delivery schedules and conduct a full quality check when equipment arrives.

Stage 5: Installation & Commissioning

This is when the work comes to life! Your system is installed and solar panel installation services come full-circle: Now your system services you.

Panels and racking are installed, wiring connected, and the inverter set up.

We tie into your electrical system and perform final system testing.

Safety inspections are completed, and your system is prepared for activation.

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What If My Home Doesn’t Pass the Site Assessment?

Not every home is immediately solar-ready. Some older homes or properties with heavy shading or poor roof orientation may initially fall short of the minimum 75% solar resource threshold required for effective solar panel performance.

Common Reasons a Site May Not Qualify:

Roof faces the wrong direction (e.g., mostly north-facing)
Significant year-round shading from trees or neighboring buildings
Insufficient roof space or unusual roof geometry
Roof pitch is too shallow or too steep for optimal panel placement

But Here’s the Good News: There Are Solutions

Tree Trimming or Removal: Reducing or removing shading from overhanging branches can dramatically improve solar access.
Alternate Mounting Locations: If the roof isn’t ideal, we can explore other areas, like garages, shed roofs, or ground-mounted arrays. We can also explore ground-mounted solar panels.
Roof Modification or Rebuild: If you’re planning a roof replacement anyway, we can coordinate the new roof’s pitch or material to better support solar installation.
Energy Efficiency First: Sometimes, improving your home’s energy efficiency (like better insulation or HVAC upgrades) reduces the number of panels needed, making a marginal site feasible.

While some of these challenges can be addressed with smart planning or site improvements, it’s important to understand that proper assessment and installation should always be handled by professionals. DIY solar installation is never recommended.

Solar installation involves structural assessment, electrical work, permitting, and safety precautions that require professional expertise. Improper installation can void warranties, violate local codes, or pose serious fire and shock risks, making it far more costly in the long run. At Trifecta Solar, we have more than 20 years of professional experience in the solar power industry, installing residential, commercial, and agricultural solar systems. We also help non-profit organizations switch to renewable energy. We’re happy to be among the top solar panel installation companies in Pennsylvania.

Is Solar Panel Installation Cost Worth It?

Solar is more affordable than ever. Most residential systems cost between $15,000 and $25,000, and thanks to lower energy costs (about $0.08/kWh over the life of the system versus $0.12/kWh for conventional power) many homeowners see payback in 5 to 10 years. You’ll also qualify for a 30% federal tax credit, taken directly off your tax bill. S Many homeowners turn to home improvement loans or home equity loans for their solar systems.

Since every home is different, the best way to get an accurate solar panel installation cost is to contact Trifecta Solar for a custom quote.

(Explore other FAQs regarding solar power installations)

Are You Ready for the Next Step?

Solar panels for farms are an idea whose time has arrived. To learn how a solar power system can improve life on your farm, contact Trifecta today for a Free Analysis of your solar potential.