Following is a collection of common mistakes made when installing solar electric systems.

shade-pv

 

How Not to Install PV - Shadow Considerations

This PV array was installed under a tree and as a result the branches of the tree were casting shadows on the PV modules.

 


orientation-pv1

 

How Not to Install PV - Orientation & Shadowing

Here the photovoltaic module is facing West and gets very little sunshine. In addition, a shadowing issue further reduces the output.

 


meltdown

 

How Not to Install Batteries - Battery Post Meltdown!  What's the Ampacity of a 3/8" Bolt?

Bolts are not for current carrying.  Bolts are to hold lugs, etc. in tight contact with electrical terminals.

 


dry-battery

 

How Not to Treat Batteries - Maintaining Battery Electrolyte Levels

During normal operation, water is lost from a flooded lead-acid battery as a result of evaporation and electrolysis...

 

Please contact us  (use the link on the main page) if you have additional examples for posting here. These can be related to photovoltaic installations or to other solar technologies. We will arrange with you to get pictures and explanations. Thanks.