Top Installation Mistakes
1. Ignoring Shading
Installing panels where they'll be shaded by buildings, trees, or railings significantly reduces production.
Solution: Check sun path throughout the day and year. Even partial shading can reduce output by 50%+.
2. Wrong Panel Orientation
Panels facing north (in Northern Hemisphere) produce 60-70% less than south-facing panels.
Solution: Face panels south (or as close as possible). East/west works but reduces production by 15-20%.
3. Undersizing Inverter
Using an inverter that can't handle your panel wattage wastes potential production and can damage components.
Solution: Inverter should handle 100-120% of panel wattage. Check specifications carefully.
4. Poor Mounting Security
Insecure mounting can lead to panels falling, causing damage and safety hazards, especially in high winds.
Solution: Use proper mounting hardware designed for your balcony type. Test before full installation.
5. Skipping Permits
Installing without required permits can result in fines, forced removal, and insurance issues.
Solution: Check local regulations. Many areas require permits for systems over 400-800W.
Planning Mistakes
Oversizing System
Installing more panels than you can use wastes money. Excess production may not be worth the extra cost.
Tip: Calculate your actual usage first. Start with 400-600W and expand if needed.
Ignoring Weight Limits
Balconies have weight capacity limits. Exceeding them can cause structural damage and safety issues.
Tip: Check balcony specifications. Typical limit is 40-60 lbs/sq ft.
Pro Tip
Plan carefully before installing. Use our free calculator to determine optimal system size, check local regulations, and verify your setup will work before purchasing.