Hello, first time inspecting a home with solar panels.
There were three panels for them and was just looking for clarification on how they should be wired. One outside was a fuse box with switch wired as a main panel. It says AC but it was not for an AC as when I shut it off to open it the heat pump and only cooling applaince for the home continued to operate.
There were two other panels wired as a subpanel.
The home’s utility supplied main panel feeders were connected to this system as well.
These feeders come through the roof and this is where they go down and outside. No panels or boxes at attic or visible roof (steep not walked).
If you are not sure, or see some anomaly, refer it to a solar specialist.
No help from me Chris because I refrain from even looking at auxiliary systems unless the physical installation could affect the structure. Generators, solar panels etc. hookups and wiring is deferred to specialist or electrician that does those type of installations.
You want to refer it out. It is way beyond the scope of a Home Inspection and can get into hot water fast. You do want to make sure your client gets complete documentation and warranties for the roof and solar components (suggest they ask for them). Pay close attention to the underside of the roof deck were the panels are mounted.
I agree with others that it should be defered.
Solar and battery systems are beyond the scope of this inspection. It is recommended that the system and all related components be inspected by a qualified contractor familiar with these systems, and inform you on the operation and maintenece of this system.
Thanks all. That’s what I do for generators should have just went ahead and saved myself time by not opening panels.
Always a learning experience for you…outside of what you (we) need to report on. Never the less a good question if you want to learn more about it.
I see solar all the time, though I rarely see the battery backup.
It looks like two arrays, with separate disconnects, tied together by a sub panel, that then feeds into the main panel.
Without being there to see the exact order, based on the photos it looks pretty typical and pretty clean.
The important thing is everything should be labeled. And it seems it is . You shouldn’t see any bolts from the attic, and there are none in your photos. So that’s good.
In California, we also have set back rules on how far the panels should be from the top, bottom, and edge of the roof.
You do want to disclaim how well it works because you’re only there a few hours, and can’t possibly measure its output over the course of a day or week, or month.
That’s what I would do. I do the same for interior basement/crawl water “management” systems. (Not water proofing because that is not what they are 
)
Very good point. Most solar installers try to lag the mounts to trusses/rafters, but sometimes they miss and the lags are screwed through the sheathing only. Not good in a high wind situation. Installers often don’t seal those lags either, which can lead to water leaks. I have come across quite a few with water stains on the underside of those mounts.
As far as the rest of it, I’m with the majority that are riding the “refer it out” bus.
