Solar Panel Mounting Hardware

Solar mounting hardware includes mounting and racking equipment, both designed to support and position panels.

Mounting equipment securely attaches the solar array to the ground (ground mounts) or the roof (roof mounts). In addition to providing stability, mounts position the panels at the perfect angle to soak up as much sunlight as possible.

Meanwhile, racking equipment holds the panels in place, providing the framework that supports them and keeping them properly spaced and aligned.

Both mounting and racking equipment ensure the stability, durability, and efficiency of solar panels, helping maximize solar energy production.

Different Types of Solar Mounting Hardware

Here are the most common types of solar mounting hardware:

• Fixed mounts. These mounts hold the panels at a set angle.
• Adjustable mounts. With these, you can manually change the angle at which the panels are positioned.
• Tracking mounts. These mounts automatically follow the sun’s path across the sky for optimal sunlight exposure.
• Roof mounts. As the name suggests, these attach the panels to the roof.
• Ground mounts. These are used for panels installed on the ground and work especially well for large solar systems.
• Rail-less mounting system. This system attaches the panels directly to the roof using specially designed brackets and hardware, eliminating the need for solar mounting rails.
• Universal brackets. These are adjustable solar panel brackets that go well with different solar panel dimensions and roof types.

4 Key Benefits of Getting Mounting Hardware From Portable Sun

The key benefits of getting mounting hardware from Portable Sun include durability, weather resistance, ease of installation, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.

Let’s look into them more closely:

1. Durability and Weather Resistance

Portable Sun’s mounting hardware is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, from high wind and heavy rain to extreme temperatures. Made from high-quality materials, our products resist corrosion and damage over time, ensuring long-lasting performance and durability.

With our mounting hardware, your panels will stay securely in place, giving you peace of mind that your solar power system will perform well for years to come.

2. Easy Installation

The design of our mounting equipment makes the installation process quick and simple, whether your setup is grid-tied or integrated with a solar battery for off-grid use.

Most components are easy to handle and set up, saving you both time and effort. Not only will you get your system up and running in no time, but you’ll also cut down on labor costs and start saving money right away.

3. Flexibility

Our hardware is compatible with different surfaces, making it ideal for portable solar energy systems. Whether you have a flat roof, sloped roof, or ground installation, they can be adjusted to meet the needs of your setup.

In addition, our mounting systems are designed to work with various types of panels, ensuring a reliable fit for your solar array.

4. Cost-Effectiveness

With Portable Sun, you get mounting hardware that balances quality with affordability, making it suitable for everyone’s budget. Moreover, the durability and ease of installation of our systems offer lower long-term costs, as they require fewer replacements and repairs over time.

How to Choose the Best Mounting Hardware for Your Needs

To choose the best mounting hardware kit for your needs, you need to consider factors like compatibility with your solar panels, ease of installation, roof or ground installation needs, adjustability for optimal sun exposure, and cost.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of each of them:

1. Compatibility With Your Solar Panels

Ensure the mounting kit matches the size and weight of your panels for stability and durability. Look for a design that ensures proper stability and alignment, as well as long-term durability.

2. Ease of Installation

If you plan on setting up the mounting equipment yourself and you don’t have a lot of DIY experience, ease of installation is a must. A kit with clear instructions, pre-assembled parts, and minimal tools required will make the process smooth, quick, simple, and cost-effective.

3. Roof or Ground Installation Needs

Are you installing your solar array on the roof or on the ground? This is an important question to answer, as it’ll help you narrow down your choices of mounting systems. Each option has different requirements for stability and tilt angle, both of which are important for your system’s safety and performance.

4. Adjustability for Optimal Sun Exposure

If your installation space is partly shaded by nearby trees or buildings, you might want to consider adjustable mounting equipment. This way, you can change the tilt angle of your panels according to the sun’s position and ensure they soak up as much sunlight as possible.

5. Cost and Budget

Just like solar panel prices, the cost of mounting hardware varies depending on the type of your system, materials used, brand, installation complexity, and additional features. You should look for products that offer a good balance of price and quality, and luckily, Portable Sun is the perfect place to find them!

Mounting Hardware FAQ

1. What hardware is required for solar panels?

The hardware required for solar panels includes mounting equipment, racks, fasteners (bolts and clamps), and sometimes trackers. Roof installations may also need flashing to prevent leaks and preserve the roof structure.

2. Do I need professional installation for solar mounting hardware?

You don’t always need professional installation for solar mounting hardware, as some kits are DIY-friendly or pre-assembled. However, if your system is complex and requires precise alignment, you might want to opt out of doing it yourself and consult an expert.

3. Can I use the same mounting hardware for different panel brands?

You can use the same mounting hardware for different panel brands if it’s universal. That said, you should always check for compatibility—panel size, frame thickness, and mounting hole placement are all important factors to consider.