Every successful solar installation is a blend of precision, product knowledge, code compliance, and on-site problem solving.
At One Place Solar, we recently delivered a high-performance residential system in Texas — 19 Longi 400W modules with a Tesla 7.6kW inverter. From that project, we’ve gathered some valuable lessons and field insights that every installer can benefit from.
Whether you’re a seasoned installer or just starting out, here are the must-know tips to ensure your installations are clean, compliant, and built to last.
🔧 1. Understand the Equipment You’re Installing
Tip: Study the manufacturer’s manuals — always.
In this project, the Tesla inverter came with built-in rapid shutdown and monitoring. That saved us extra wiring, but only because our team knew the product inside-out.
✅ Installer To-Do:
- Familiarize yourself with the Tesla Gateway and AC/DC wiring layout
- Use the right torque specs on MC4 connectors and ground lugs
- Pre-configure the inverter Wi-Fi and app for smoother commissioning
🧱 2. Roof Safety Starts with the Right Racking
Tip: Spend time getting the racking layout perfect — it’s the foundation of a long-lasting system.
We used K2 Splice Foot XL with CrossRail-44X. It’s easy to install, strong, and great for high-wind areas like Texas.
✅ On-Site Tips:
- Find rafters using a stud finder — not guesswork
- Pre-drill lag screw holes to avoid cracking rafters
- Always use sealant or butyl flashing pads to prevent leaks
- Keep rails straight and level — use string lines for visual alignment
🔌 3. Plan the Conduit Like a Pro
Tip: A clean conduit layout shows your craftsmanship.
On this job:
- We used EMT conduit for all exterior runs
- Maintained weatherproof seals and compression fittings
- Routed neatly along eaves and walls for minimal visual impact
✅ Best Practices:
- Use bending tools for smooth radius turns
- Secure conduit at proper intervals (NEC says every 10 feet + within 3 feet of a box)
- Label AC/DC conduit per NEC and AHJ requirements
⚡ 4. Make the Electrical Panel Installer-Ready
Tip: Get your interconnection right — it’s where most inspection issues arise.
This system used:
- A 40A load-side PV breaker in a new 200A main service panel
- Visible, lockable AC disconnect within 10 feet of the utility meter
- Precise conductor sizing with proper temperature derating and voltage drop control
✅ On-Site Checklist:
- Confirm busbar ratings to follow NEC’s 120% rule
- Keep breaker placement opposite the main for backfed connections
- Use wire ferrules or compression lugs when required
- Tighten all lugs with calibrated torque tools
🪪 5. Don’t Skip on Placards and Labels
Tip: Proper labeling isn’t just code — it’s your pass to fast inspection approvals.
In our Texas job:
- Every AC disconnect, conduit, inverter, and junction box was labeled per NEC 690 and 705
- We included dual power source warnings, rapid shutdown notices, and string information
✅ Tools You Need:
- UV-rated label printer
- NEC label kits with pre-made placards
- Zip ties and clear label protectors for conduit tagging
🧯 6. Respect Fire Code Setbacks
Tip: Not every roof is install-everywhere-ready.
We made sure this installation:
- Had 36” fire access pathways
- Avoided vents, skylights, and roof obstructions
- Followed Lubbock’s fire code along with IFC & IRC guidelines
✅ Before You Start:
- Mark array layout with chalk lines or tape
- Double-check setbacks with your site plan
- Never encroach into easements or block service access
🧠 7. Test Everything Before You Leave
Tip: Powering up isn’t the finish line — testing is.
Before we wrapped up, we:
- Verified inverter output voltage and amperage
- Checked polarity and continuity across strings
- Commissioned monitoring and verified Wi-Fi signal strength
✅ Don’t Forget:
- Take final photos of every label, panel, conduit, and rooftop
- Leave behind a one-page homeowner handoff sheet
- Make sure AHJ placards are visible and cleanly applied
🧰 Final Words for Installers
A great solar system is only as good as its installation quality.
From rooftop racking to electrical connections, from conduit aesthetics to label placement — every detail matters.
The Texas rooftop we installed is now producing clean, reliable energy — because we followed best practices and didn’t cut corners.
At One Place Solar, we believe in doing it right the first time.
Want to Install Like a Pro?
Partner with us for:
- AHJ-ready plan sets
- Clean CAD designs for rooftop & conduit routing
- Tech support before and after install day