Solar Installation Guide
What to expect during solar installation. Timeline, preparation, what installers do, and how to ensure a quality job.
Understanding the installation process helps you prepare properly and ensures you get a quality job. Here's everything that happens from quote to switch-on.
Installation Timeline
| phase | duration | description |
|---|---|---|
| Site Survey | 1-2 hours | Installer assesses roof, DB board, cabling routes |
| Quote & Design | 2-5 days | Detailed quote with equipment specs and layout |
| Deposit & Ordering | 1-2 weeks | Equipment ordered and delivered |
| Installation | 1-2 days | Physical installation of all components |
| Commissioning | 2-4 hours | Testing, configuration, handover |
| Municipal Approval | 2-8 weeks | For grid-tied export (if required) |
phaseSite Survey
duration1-2 hours
descriptionInstaller assesses roof, DB board, cabling routes
phaseQuote & Design
duration2-5 days
descriptionDetailed quote with equipment specs and layout
phaseDeposit & Ordering
duration1-2 weeks
descriptionEquipment ordered and delivered
phaseInstallation
duration1-2 days
descriptionPhysical installation of all components
phaseCommissioning
duration2-4 hours
descriptionTesting, configuration, handover
phaseMunicipal Approval
duration2-8 weeks
descriptionFor grid-tied export (if required)
How to Prepare
Before installation day:
- Clear roof access and remove obstacles near installation area
- Ensure parking for installer vehicles (trucks with equipment)
- Provide access to DB board (often in garage)
- Clear wall space near DB for inverter mounting
- Inform security/complex management if applicable
- Plan for 4-8 hours without power during final connection
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Quality Checkpoints
Ensure your installer:
- Uses proper roof mounting (not just laying panels on tiles)
- Applies sealant to all roof penetrations (no leaks!)
- Routes cables neatly in conduit (not loose cables)
- Labels all circuits clearly at DB board
- Provides Certificate of Compliance (COC)
- Walks you through system operation
- Sets up monitoring app on your phone
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All prices are in South African Rand (ZAR) unless otherwise stated. Shipping costs may apply depending on your location.
Related Pages
Solar Installation Guide FAQs
Ideally yes, at least for the start and end. You'll need to provide access, answer questions about cable routing preferences, and receive the handover training. The middle portion (panel mounting) doesn't require your presence.
Proper installation should not damage your roof. Quality installers use appropriate mounting systems, seal all penetrations, and often improve roof longevity by shading tiles. Always check installer references and get a written roof warranty.
Major retailers: Builders Warehouse, Makro, Takealot. Solar specialists: SolarShop, Sustainable.co.za, The Solar Warehouse. Always compare prices and check warranty support before buying.
For grid-tied systems, yes - you need a qualified electrician with COC (Certificate of Compliance). For simple off-grid setups, DIY is possible but not recommended. Poor installation is the #1 cause of solar system failures.
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