Installation Day is Here 🌞
let’s get you up to speed
Preparing for Installation
Get ready for the big day!
Equipment Delivery:
- Products will arrive around 7-8 AM on the day of installation. Typically your panels and other installation products will be delivered on a pallet and set on your driveway.
- If you have a special request for a specific drop location, please let us know right away so that we can communicate your request to the delivery company.
Note: You may need to think ahead and take your vehicle out of your garage if there is a chance that it may be blocked in once the delivery is made.
Access Needed:
It’s ideal if you’re on-site during the installation:
- If your solar system includes a roof mount, we’ll need access to your attic. Please ensure that the attic access is clear and easily reachable.
- We’ll need access to your Wi-Fi network during the installation process. This helps us set up and test the system efficiently.
- If you know that you will not be available on your scheduled installation date – that is ok! Fill out the form to give us the required information so that we aren’t delayed.
Installation Day
Typically 2-3 days depending on project size
Phase 1: Racking & Wiring:
1 day
- Our crew will start your project off with installing your mounting equipment and installing the electrical equipment near the meter on your property. Attic access is required for roof mounts during this phase.
- If you have questions about the layout of your system or the routing of the electrical conduit – this is the time to address those items with the installation crew.
Phase 2: Panel Installation:
1-2 days
- Our crew will begin to install the panels on the racking system and connect your solar array to your electrical system.
- There will be a scheduled power outage that will last for 1 hour or so. We will inform you before this occurs.
Note: Your permits and siteplans will be secured outside near your meter. Do not remove these documents – they are requried for your inspections.
Inpections & Witness Test
2-3 Weeks (depending on your utility)
Electrical Inspection
about 1 week AFTER installation
- Your city will send out an inspector to verify all electrical codes were met and that your system is safe for use. Lead time varies widely and is out of our control.
- Typically you will not need to be home for this unless you have had a panel upgrade, batteries, an EV charger or other equipment that as installed in your home or garage.
Note: Your electrical inspector will sign your permit documents (tucked in near your meter). Please take a picture of the signed permit and send it to us – this will help us get your building inspection and witness test scheduled.
BUILDING INSPECTION:
About 2 weeks after installation
- We will schedule your building inspection as soon as your electrical inspection is passed. Lead time varies widely and is out of our control.
- Your witness test and permission to operate are not dependent on the building inspection.
Witness TEst:
1-3 weeks after passing Electrical Inspection
- We will schedule your witness test appointment with your utility. Lead time varies widely based on your utility company and is out of our control.
- A Centauri representative will meet with your utility on site to perform a test of your system. You do not need to be present. This test is to display that your system’s shut off features are working as expected.
- Once passed, your system will be fully opperational and you will begin producing your own energy!
Project Closeout
Finishing up and providing all documents
Receive all documents:
emailed to you
You will find all necessary files in your closeout email including:
- Project Receipt
- Total cost of project
- Warranties
- Plan Set
- Permission To Operate
Note: Some of these documents may be required when applying for rebates and the federal tax credit when you file your annual income tax return.
Monitor Production:
Through the Enphase App
- Download the Enphase “Enlighten App” to your mobile device to see stats on your system, energy production and usage and to monitor your system health. See how to use the app below.
- If you notice any issues with your system’s production please reach out to us. We have access to your monitoring app and can view potential issues and resolve them for you (see warranty inclusions).
Set Up Monitoring App
The Enphase “Enlighten” app is a great tool for tracking system usage and production.
This is available to all customers that have installed Enphase inverter systems.
Set Up an Account
After your system is set up, you should receive a welcome email from Enphase within 24 hours. This email will include your email address and activation steps. Follow steps to activate your account.
If you don’t receive the email, contact Centauri.
Download App
On your mobile device, download the “Enlighten” app by Enphase. Sign in using the the username and password you created during the activation process.You can add additional household members to your account once activates.
Start Monitoring your System
With the Enlighten app you have your panel performance and energy usage in the palm of your hand.
Tell Us About Your Install Experience
Leave a review for Centauri Systems, we appreciate your kind words.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if there’s bad weather on the installation day?
If the weather is severe, the installation may be rescheduled to ensure the safety of the workers and the quality of the installation.
When will my solar system start generating power?
Your system will start generating power as soon as it’s connected and turned on. However, it may take a few weeks for the utility company to complete their inspection and activate net metering.
How do I clean and maintain my solar panels? What about snow?
Solar panels are low-maintenance, requiring cleaning only a few times a year. Rinse them with water to remove dust and debris.
Snow will naturally melt off your panels. If you wish to clear the snow manually you can use a roof rake.
How do I handle my utility bill now that I have solar panels?
You’ll still receive a utility bill, but it will be significantly reduced. In some months, you may have a credit if your system generates more electricity than you use.
Some utilities have a set amount due each month to cover fees.
Who do I contact if I have concerns during the installation?
Anyone on the install crew will be able to help answer your questions or address your concerns. Additionally, you can contact your project manager or the customer service representative assigned to your project.
What should I do if my system isn’t producing the expected amount of energy?
First, check the monitoring system for any error messages. If everything appears normal, contact us to investigate further.
Can I add more panels to my system in the future?
Yes, you can add more panels, but it’s important to ensure your inverter and electrical system can handle the additional capacity. Consult with Centauri for specifics.
What should I do if I plan to sell my home in the future?
Notify your real estate agent about the solar system so they can include it in the listing. Ensure that the solar system’s ownership (if financed) can be transferred to the new owner or paid off at closing.
Need Assistance?
Whether you have questions about your installation or if you encounter any issues, our team is here to help
