Well we installed our solar heating panels. The company that installed them was Rural Renewable Energy Alliance. They are located in Pine River, Minnesota. They can be found here www.rreal.org

Before our decision was made to install the panels a complete site survey was done to measure my homes solar exposure. The panels are installed on the south-facing side of the structure. Two advantages to this 1) The panels do not affect the way you roof line looks and 2) The side wall installation takes advantage of the winter’s low sun angle. It really maximizes the suns solar heat input.

Here is where the panels will be installed.

The company will install two panels that will be connected to share air flow.

There is some prep work that must be done to my home to allow the installation of the panels on the exterior. All siding must be removed where the panels will be installed.

The siding is removed to reveal the backer board. The panels must be flush against the backer board and must be air tight for correct draw of air from the home.

Next up…..Preparing the panels for installation.