Design Considerations Installation Particulars
An important part of the design process is to think through the installation so that any constraints, either indoor or outdoor, will not compromise overall system operation.

Aesthetically speaking, the homeowner may prefer the array mounted flush on the roof.  But the roof may not point in the optimal southerly direction, or be in shade half the day, or may not have the proper pitch to flush mount the array at the optimum tilt angle.  There may not be roof space for further expansion.  Can the house design be altered to allow for a roof mount?  Can the modules be mounted on the ground without ruining a good view and still have good sun?  Will the array be accessible for snow removal and potential maintenance?  Can the terrain be utilized to minimize generator noise?  Can wiring be easily buried or otherwise hidden?

The indoor aspects of the installation must also be well planned.  Ideally, the controls and batteries should be installed per applicable codes in an out-of-the-way place, and arranged for maximum safety and ease of maintenance.  The batteries must be enclosed in a sealed box and vented to the outside.  Space must be available for the power components to be arranged in a orderly fashion which permits ease of service.  The equipment location should isolate living areas from inverter noise and secure children from danger.  These considerations can be most easily incorporated into new construction. 

Of course, the sooner a solar designer/installer becomes involved in the building project, the better.  Solar designers work together with the homeowner, architect, and builder to insure an orderly and visually pleasing installation occurs.  The more complete the planning process, the better the system will perform, and the happier the homeowner will be.