All that you need to know about Solar Installation Tools!

The world is facing an energy crisis in the years to come. So, non-renewable energy resources would die out whereas there would be room only for renewable energy resources. Among the renewable energy resources, solar power would surely become one of the foremost. Hence, there is clearly no doubt that solar installation would become a career that has a big demand. Many would therefore opt for this field. Whenever we talk about an industry, it is important that we focus on the tools and equipment relevant to it as well. Hence, in this article, we are going to focus on the essential solar installation tools on the whole.

Why are Solar Installation Tools Important?

Prior to identifying the solar installation tools, we thought that it would be better to have a discussion on why solar installation tools are important. 

This industry is all about installing photovoltaic systems or rather PV systems. So, a solar installer or a PV installer needs to have specific knowledge of this subject. This was not a much-discussed topic long ago. It has grabbed the spotlight simply due to the scarcity of non-renewable energy resources and the development of the relevant technologies. Of course, this is a specialized trade, thereby making the solar installers use specialized tools and equipment. 

Whatever you do in life, you know that you need to use the right tools and equipment. It does not matter whether it has anything to do with solar installation or not. For almost all the things that we do, there is a specific technique. And it is connected with a special set of tools. Likewise, this trade also has a special set of tools and equipment that allows solar installers to involve in effective solar installation. 

With the right and proper solar installation tools, you would be able to smoothly carry out your solar installation work towards perfection. It is all that matters. You need to carry out your work smoothly and perfectly. But for that, you definitely need to have solar installation tools. 

What are the Most Essential Solar Installation Tools?

Of course, you would be quite anxious to know what the most essential solar installation tools are. Yes, let us take a look.

1. Pliers
2. Cordless Drill
3. Hole Saw
4. Wire Strippers
5. Nut Drivers
6. Tape Measure
7. Hacksaw
8. Fuse Pullers
9. Caulking Gun
10. Multimeter
11. Solar Pathfinder
12. Compass
13. Extension Cords
14. Levels
15. Safety Equipment

Just getting to know what they are is not just sufficient. You must also get to know what their uses are, how and when to use them, and how you must take good care of them. So, it is time we looked into each of them with the utmost focus.

1. Pliers

Among the essential solar installation tools, we are going to look into pliers first. What are pliers? Although it would not be that much necessary to tell you what pliers are, we still thought of telling you. Pliers are tools that you can use to hold objects firmly. There are different types of pliers and each of them serves different purposes. And there are several types of pliers that solar installers have to use as solar installation tools. What are they?

• Lineman’s Pliers
• Slip-joint Pliers
• Needle-nose Pliers

Okay, now you know what types of pliers we need. Thus, let us get to know each of them in detail.

Lineman’s Pliers

Some may call this type of plier a combination plier or a side-cutting plier as well. This is commonly in use in many professions. Electricians have to use this type of pliers most of the time. And of course, solar installers also do have to use them. 

Lineman’s pliers specifically have a flat gripping surface. And they have a beveled cutting edge. The two handles of the plier are joined with a rivet. Their grips are insulated so that they protect you from electric shocks. Also, it allows you to have a perfect and firm grip as well. 

Most of the time, Lineman’s plumbers are useful for electricians. It is because these are mainly for tasks such as cutting, straightening, and bending wires as well as twisting wires. As solar installers, you surely do have to deal with wires. So, you would surely need to have a Lineman’s plier in your toolbox.

Lineman’s Pliers, Combination Pliers with Wire Stripper/Crimper/Cutter Function, Heavy Duty Side Cutting High-Leverage Plier, 8-inch NEWACALOX

This has a high-Leverage design that can save your force when you use it. The wire stripper of this tool can be loosened with a screwdriver and you can adjust it with your finger. The cutting edge of this is sharper thanks to the durable nickel chromium steel structure and the induction hardened cutting edge. The buyers of this product have admired factors such as craftsmanship, ergonomics, durability, value for money, comfort, and sturdiness. 

Slip-joint Pliers

The specialty of slip-joint pliers is that you can move the pivot point of these. So, you can easily increase the size of their jaws. The jaws of these pliers can be thin or thick. Generally, there are various designs. So, you can go for several pliers if you intend. 

Klein Tools D511-8 Slip-Joint Pliers, 8-Inch, Silver

This 8-inch slip-joint plier includes two jaw settings that you can use for a range of electrical wiring tasks. The pliers’ serrated jaws provide maximum gripping force, while the shear-type cutting action assures accurate results. Precision wire cutting is possible with this shear-type cutter. The jaw capacity of 8-inch pliers is rather large. With serrated jaws, it ensures gripping power as well. So, we think that this would be ideal for you.

Needle-Nose Pliers

We are going to consider needle-nose pliers now. Some may call these bent-nose pliers, bent-needle-nose pliers, pointy-nosed pliers, or long-nose pliers. As their names suggest, these are a little longer than other types of pliers and have pointed edges. So, the main advantage of using a needle-nose plier is to reach small areas that you cannot access on your own or using another tool. 

Many other professionals also use needle-nose pliers. Anyway, solar installers need needle-nose pliers to re-position, bend, or snip wires. You surely have to perform such tasks while you are engaged in solar installation.

MFIROZ 6 Inch Needle Nose Pliers, Professional Cutting Pliers. Precision Long Nose Pliers are Suitable for Cutter Wire, Bending Steel Wire, Small Object Grasping, Etc.

2. Cordless Drill

We are moving on to the next important tool in the list of essential solar installation tools. Almost all the field workers have to use drills. It can be either corded drills or cordless drills. But when it comes to solar installation, it is indeed a lot better to go for cordless drills. If it wAS a corded drill, you may need to have sufficient extension cables to get electricity supply and so forth. But you are free from all such unnecessary burdens if you use a cordless drill that is widely available on the market nowadays. 

We do not think that we would have to explain why you would have to use cordless drills. But we will tell you. You can use drills mainly to make holes or to drive fasteners. However, quite clearly, based on the power, speed, and size of the drill, there is a variety of cordless drills available on the market. 

In terms of cordless drills, they have a rechargeable battery in them.  With the advancement of technology, modern cordless drills can make large diameter holes. They have much more battery life. And they are way ahead of others when it comes to efficiency.

As a solar installation tool, a solar installer would need cordless drills whenever they need to make holes in order to install PV systems. 

However, proper maintenance and due care are indeed important factors when we consider the proper use of the cordless drill. Improper use may reduce the lifespan of your piece of equipment.

TECCPO Cordless Drill Set, 20V Brushless Drill Driver Kit, 2x 2.0Ah Li-ion Batteries, 530 In-lbs Torque, 1/2” Keyless Chuck, 2-Variable Speed, Fast Charger, 33pcs Bits Accessories with Case

This consists of an efficient brushless motor. This brushless drill driver weighs just 3.37 pounds with the battery, making it ideal for reducing user fatigue and gaining access to difficult-to-reach areas. When utilized in darkened regions, LED lights are useful for lighting the workstation and guaranteeing job precision. We think that this would be great for the use of a solar installation worker. 

3. Hole Saw

The next tool that we are going to take into account is the hole saw. Actually, this is a tool that is used in a drill. This is a ring-shaped blade. The main use of the hole saw is to create holes without cutting up the core material of a particular workpiece. However, its cup-like object allows holes to be made only up to a certain extent. 

Hoe saws are widely in use in the construction field. You can use them to make holes in brick, concrete, glass, or stone. So, hole saws are really useful in the field of solar installation, especially for fitting and installing PV systems. 

There are two types of hole saws. One is the adjustable hole saw and the other is the circle cutter. Adjustable hole saws allow you to have a big variety of sizes to make holes with. But when it comes to the circle cutter, it has only one, two, or three adjustable teeth. 

However, it is important to take proper care of these. It is possible for them to catch dust. So, be mindful that you clean them after each use.

LENOX Tools Hole Saw with Arbor, Speed Slot, 2-Inch (1772779)

In terms of hole saws, here is a suggestion from us. This hole saw is pretty quick and can save your time, even when cutting through metal. And this has very good performance and efficiency. The speed slot design on these hole saws allows for quick and easy plug ejection. These hole saws have thicker walls than typical hole saws, allowing them to keep their integrity for longer and lose fewer teeth while cutting difficult materials. And consequently, these hole saws are durable as well.

ryker hardware 10-Piece Hole Saw Kit for Wood – Durable Carbon Steel Power Drill Hole Cutter With High Precision Cutting Teeth – Woodworking HCS Hole Saw Kit For Wood, PVC, Plastic, Drywall

These hole saws can cut through wood, puff, and plastic with great precision and make exceptionally clean cuts owing to their high-speed steel teeth and smooth cutting blades. These drill hole saws are impact and wear-resistant, sturdy, and strong, and are made of top-grade carbon steel with a nickel-plated finish. This has received good ratings for factors like ease to use, value for money, and durability. 

4. Wire Strippers

Yes, now we are going to move towards wire strippers. This is of course an essential tool of any electrician. As solar installers do have to deal with electrical systems big time, they also have to use wire strippers. 

What are wire strippers for? Well, the name itself tells us its purpose. You can use wire strippers for stripping up the electrical insulation when you need to. 

There are manual wire strippers, automatic ones as well as laser wire strippers. A manual wire stripper has two opposing blades. It has a center notch. By rotating the wire stripper around the insulation of the wire while applying pressure, you can easily remove its insulation. It is possible for you to use this type of wire stripper for any sized wire. The insulation of the wire is not actually bonded to the wire. Hence, it is a fairly easy task to remove the insulation using a wire stripper. Some wire strippers have adjustable notches. So, you can match the notch size to the wire size and choose the optimum one. All that you have to do when using a wire stripper is to pull out the wire if you have got the wire stripper into the right position.

In addition, there are automatic as well as laser wire strippers. If you feel like you cannot manage the wiring work related to solar installation with a manual wire stripper, you may well go ahead buying automatic ones to move towards much productive solar installation.

Klein Tools 11063W Wire Cutter / Wire Stripper, Heavy Duty Wire Stripper Tool for 8-20 AWG Solid and 10-22 AWG Stranded Electrical Wire

You can simply cut and strip 8-20 AWG solid wire and 10-22 AWG stranded wire with this wire stripper. The precision-machined stripping holes of this tool make it easy to remove wire insulation without damaging the wire. This may remove up to 1 inch (25 mm) of insulation in a single step. This has gotten good reviews on Amazon for criteria such as material quality, simplicity of use, durability, accuracy, versatility, and value for money.

HORUSDY 6-in-1 Wire Stripping Crimper Tool, 8-Inch Wire Strippers Electrical for Wire Loop in Wire/Stripping/Crimping/Cutting/Iron Wire Cutting and Double Strand Wire Cutting

In terms of wire strippers, here is another recommendation from us. This wire stripping tool is for copper and aluminum cables with a diameter of 10 to 18 AWG. This tool features a pleasant handle that makes it simple to hold firmly by the handle. This has gotten high ratings on Amazon for characteristics like versatility, simplicity of use, ergonomics, value for money, and durability. Therefore, we believe this is a fantastic one to add to your set of solar installation tools.

5. Nut Drivers

Many professionals do have to use nut drivers. Not just professionals, nut drivers are important even for general tasks that any homeowner would carry out. And solar installers also surely need them.

Nut drivers are basically to drive nuts and bolts. A nut driver has two main parts. One is the handle and the other is the shaft which has a socket through which you can tighten nuts and bolts. By appearance, a nut driver would look exactly like a screwdriver if it was not for the socket that fits only for nuts and bolts. After all, a screwdriver is to drive screws and a nut driver is to drive nuts. It is as simple as that. 

Some nut drivers have T-shaped handles. The operator can obviously get a substantially better grip with a T-shaped handle. And it is a lot easier to operate as well. 

Solar installers have to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts when it comes to the installation of solar panels. Without nut drivers, you cannot do it. You would hardly have to use a screwdriver as a solar installer. As a matter of fact, you would have to use nut drivers much more often than screwdrivers. So, you will have to use nut drivers as one of the most essential solar installation tools. There is no doubt about that.

Klein Tools – 6356 635-6 Tool Set, Heavy Duty Magnetic Nut Drivers SAE Sizes 1/4, 5/16, 3/8, 7/16, 1/2, and 9/16-Inch Hex, 6-Inch, 6-Piece

This Klein’s 6-piece heavy-duty nut driver set has a through-handle and fully hollow shafts, so you can drive nuts on any length bolt without bottoming out. The magnetic tips will grip any nut with ease, while the wrench assist offers more torque. The collection comprises hex sizes that are commonly used. On Amazon, this has received really good reviews and ratings from its customers. Because of that, we thought of recommending this toolset to you to make this one of your solar installation tools.

6. Tape Measure

One most important part of fieldwork is measuring. If you go wrong in your measurements, maybe all your work is a waste of money and effort. You can do no fieldwork without a tape measure. Thus, having a tape measure is that important for fieldwork.

A good start is half the battle won, right? What is the start of a solar panel installation task? It is taking measurements. It is only after you take the measurements you can kickstart your main work. During the time you measure, you might feel that hardly any work is done. But in actual fact, it is the time everything is done. A proper plan is pretty important for whatever you do in life. And it is when you take measurements that you build up the plan for what you do. That is why we tell you that you have to use the right measuring tools as measurements are really vital.

With the use of a tape measure, you easily can measure the amount of area that needs to be covered using solar panels, the number of solar panels that you would need, and so on. If you fail to get the right number of solar panels, it would turn out to be a problem. 

The self-retracting tape measures that are available on the market nowadays are pretty convenient to be used. You can take it in your pocket to the rooftop. And the simple but useful features it provides are also important for solar installation work. On the whole, what we have to say is that solar installation is impossible without a tape measure.

LEXIVON 16Ft/5m DuaLock Tape Measure | 1-Inch Wide Blade with Nylon Coating, Matt Finish White & Yellow Dual Sided Rule Print | Ft/Inch/Fractions/Metric (LX-207)

This is an excellent tape measure that we can suggest. A high-slip and high-impact casing make up this. This is a pretty durable piece of equipment. Of course, there is no need to be concerned about the accuracy or performance of the tape measure. They are up to the task. So go ahead and get it and include it in your set of solar installation tools.

12 Foot Measuring Tape Measure by Kutir – Easy to Read Both Side Dual Ruler, Retractable, Heavy Duty, Magnetic Hook, Metric, Inches and Imperial Measurement, Shock Absorbent Rubber Case

Here is another suggestion from us. This is also a very useful tape measure for any solar installer. This tape measure’s housing is composed of a high-quality rubberized material that is shock-absorbent. It has even been put to the test in our labs to guarantee that quality control is maintained throughout the manufacturing process. As a consequence, we can ensure its long-term viability. So, having this as one of the solar installation tools would be ideal.

7. Hacksaw

And yes, this is another most important tool. Before we tell you about the tool, we thought of telling you how hacksaws got its name. Hack means rough. Saw means a cut. So, a hacksaw is a cutting tool that you can use to make a rough cut. Indeed, if there is any object that you have to make a cut in, it is hacksaws that you would have to use. No other smooth-cutting tool would do the job for you.

This hand-held tool is fine-toothed. So, you can use it to cut many hard substances. It can be metal, plastic, wood, and so on. Plumbers have to use hacksaws big time when plumbing as they have to cut and fix PVC pipes on the whole. Even when it comes to an electrician, they also have to use hacksaws to deal with metal or PVC pipes that carry electrical wires. And solar installers also have to install these electrical systems and connect them to solar panels. Hence, solar panel installers should have hacksaws in their toolbox for certain.

Hacksaws come in various designs and sizes. Apart from the usual design, there are panel hacksaws and electric hacksaws as well. You can choose the type of hacksaw that best fits your necessities. 

But always go for much-qualified products. There is no use just buying something, using it just once, and throwing it away. If you purchase a durable product, you would be able to use it for a long time. So, our advice for you is to choose quality and durable products, especially when it comes to tools like hacksaws. 

AIRAJ 12 in Hacksaw Frame Set with 10 Replaceable Saw Blades and 2 Cutting Angles (45°/90°), Adjustable Tension Multifunctional Hacksaws

This is a metal hand saw with excellent hardness and endurance, manufactured of high-quality steel. Cutting with this is safe and comfortable because of the ergonomically built handle. The tension of the hacksaw frame is adjustable, and the tightness of the hacksaw frame may be changed according to your demands, saving time and effort and preventing saw blade damage while in use. Cutting angles of 45 degrees and 90 degrees alternate, and the cutting angle may be adjusted depending on the application.

AIRAJ 12 In Hacksaw Frame Set, Adjust Tension Hacksaws with 7 Reciprocating Saw Blades, Two Sawing Angles(45°/90°) Saw, Hand saw for quick blade change

This hacksaw is composed of high-quality steel that has a high degree of hardness, sturdiness, and durability, as well as a comfortable grip that makes them safer and more efficient. Three wood saw blades, two plastic product cutting saw blades, one big tooth cutting wood saw blade, and one tiny tooth cutting wood saw blade make up the hacksaw frameset. For a solar installation worker, we think that this would be ideal.

8. Fuse Pullers

Next in line in the list of solar installation tools are fuse pullers. Just like the name itself suggests, a fuse puller is to remove fuses from their holders or fuse blocks. Anyway, you have to be mindful that you have de-energized the circuit before you remove the fuses. It is a vitally important safety measure that you have to take. 

VANTRONIK Fuse Puller For Blade Fuse Automotive Fuse Jcase Fuse Box Shaped Fuse, Insulated, Serrated Teeth Rounded Grooves With Notch, 6.5” Length For Car Boat Truck

Here is a recommendation from us in terms of fuse pullers. This has 2mm thin and flat tips, 3” long-nose for extended reach applications and tight spaces, rounded grooves developed specifically for the removal of blade fuses and small round components, allowing the parts to be removed quickly and without harm, and many more. Carbon-hardened steel has been used in its manufacturing process. Forr factors like ease of using, ease of removal, and value for money, this has received pretty good ratings on Amazon. 

Jonard Tools FP-600, Fuse Puller with Cushion Grip, 5″ Length

For optimum strength and longevity, Dionard’s fuse pullers are composed of heat-treated chrome vanadium steel. These fuse pullers are perfect for installing and removing fuses from line amplifiers and other cylindrical components, such as heat coils. The fuse puller includes knurled jaws for removing fuses without damaging them, as well as an ergonomically designed handle with a dipped plastic grip for extra comfort.

9. Caulking Gun

A Caulking gun is another important solar installation tool that you have to use. The purpose of using a caulking gun is to hold a tube that is filled with caulk. As you would possibly know, you would have to use caulk to fill up gaps and cracks in certain areas. Moreover, this is indeed needed in work like solar installation.

Some may say that a caulking gun is not really necessary. Yes, you may be able to just squeeze the tube of caulk having placed it at the right place. It is possible for you to do it using your own hands. But it affects the condition of the work that you do. To get a well-performed task as your outcome, you surely need to use a  caulking gun as it eases your work as well as it gives you a much quality output.

So, it is quite apparent that it is better if you use a caulking gun for the purpose of applying caulk.

SolidWork Professional Hand Caulking Gun with Highest 24:1 Thrust Ratio | Caulk Gun for processing all 10oz Sealant and Adhesive Cartridges or Tubes | Drip-free Silicone Gun | Blue

The powerful 24:1 leverage of this caulking gun enables pleasant and fatigue-free employment even over long periods of time. Its high-quality riveted steel and aluminum alloy construction provide faultless handling and long-term durability, even under the most extreme conditions. The caulk gun can handle cartridges as large as 1/10 gallon. As a result, you can use any normal sealant or adhesive cartridge with it. This caulking gun has earned positive reviews on Amazon for qualities like durability, simplicity of use, adhesion, and value for money.

10. Multimeter

Okay, this is another most important piece of equipment for any solar installer. Whenever you find an issue related to an electrical system, you can use a multimeter to test, troubleshoot, and fix it. 

In fact, there are ammeters, voltmeters, and ohmmeters available on the market. Yet, a multimeter is indeed significant. It has the ability to measure all three aspects. Firstly, you can use the multimeter to measure the electric current in amps. Then, you can use it to measure the voltage. You can measure it in volts. Also, you can use the multimeter to measure the resistance. And it is in ohm.

You may understand for yourself how convenient it has become. You can measure all three components namely the electric current, the voltage, and the resistance using a multimeter. 

A multimeter is definitely a must-have for any electrician. And again, solar installers have to perform a lot of tasks related to electrical systems. Therefore, this is indeed a must-have for a solar installer as well. 

In this profession, you may have to check on electrical circuits whether they carry electricity or not. Also, you may have to check the condition of batteries on certain occasions. You may need to assess if they need charging or not. For that, you can specifically use a multimeter. That would be easy for your work. And it would lead you towards strategic solar installation for sure.

AstroAI Multimeter 2000 Counts Digital Multimeter with DC AC Voltmeter and Ohm Volt Amp Tester; Measures Voltage, Current, Resistance; Tests Live Wire, Continuity

This multimeter can safely and accurately troubleshoot a wide range of electrical issues. It has a range of capabilities for measuring current, voltage, and resistance, as well as continuity, transistor, and diode testing. It is simple and safe to use. This is appropriate for both professional and domestic use. And it’s safe to say that this cut is also perfect for a professional solar installation worker. This has gotten positive reviews on Amazon for aspects such as readability, usability, and accuracy.

KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000 Counts Voltmeter Auto-Ranging Fast Accurately Measures Voltage Current Amp Resistance Diodes Continuity Duty-Cycle Capacitance Temperature for Automotive

Regarding multimeters, here is another suggestion from us. This multimeter can detect voltages of up to 600V AC/DC, currents of up to 10A AC/DC, and resistance of up to 60 MOhms. Temperature, capacitance, frequency, duty-cycle, wire on-off, and test diodes, and continuity are all possible to be checked. The LED lights on the jacks will turn on when you turn the dial to the desired function. Connecting the leads is straightforward. You would not have to worry about determining the value range to utilize because auto-ranging will take care of it. A big 2.9″ LCD backlight panel with easy-to-read numbers displays the 6000-count resolution. As a result, it’s quite simple to use.

11. Solar Pathfinder

We have been discussing a lot about solar installation tools. But other fields also have most of the tools in common. Now, let us get to a tool that is obviously unique and significant to the field of solar installation. It is the solar pathfinder.

What exactly is a solar pathfinder? If you are already into solar installation or so, you would probably know what this is. But do not worry about it. We will anyway tell you. This is a tool that a solar installer can use to determine the most accurate photovoltaic array location. Of course, you must get the most economical and efficient photovoltaic array position. There is hardly any doubt about that. If you fail to get the maximum energy out of the sun, no doubt, your solar installation project would be useless. You fix solar panels to make use of natural solar energy to generate energy. But if you get it wrong, it would be a waste of your own energy and money trying to create energy. So, you must get the positions right. That is why a solar pathfinder is important in such instances.

The importance of using a solar pathfinder is its reliability. You can of course rely on the decisions that you make based on the solar pathfinder. It surely provides accurate readings. Hence, have no suspicion on what you get out of a solar pathfinder at all. It would help you only towards the accuracy and ultimate success of your ventures.

Solar Pathfinder

A panoramic view of the entire site is provided by a highly polished, clear, convex plastic dome of this solar pathfinder. Regardless of the sun or clouds, it works at any time of day. This is a highly reliable piece of equipment. Most buyers of this product are so happy with this. They have reviewed this product on Amazon positively. 

12. Compass

And here is another tool that you would have to use in the main. It is the compass. Of course, a compass is for identifying a particular direction. As for solar installation, you would have to find out the direction of the sun in the morning and where it is heading towards. So, you would be able to make a clear sketch of the movement of the sun. Therefore, it would result in allowing you to form the most effective spots for the placement of solar panels. And for that, you would have to use a compass.

But it is the technical method. You can use your smartphones nowadays. Usually, modern-day smartphones have a compass. As you might sometimes know, they do not use the traditional method of making use of the earth’s magnetism. They use GPS. The method the smartphone uses does not matter. If we can get our work done, that is it. And a smartphone does it alright in modern times. But still, there is no offense in going for a compass adhering to the technical methods.

COSTIN Multifunctional Compass, Metal Military Waterproof High Accuracy Compass with Map Measurer, Distance Calculator, Bubble Level Perfect for Outdoor Activities, Matte Black

This compass is constructed of high-strength engineering metal that is both robust and long-lasting. After absorbing enough sunlight, the luminous magnet arrow and compass card allow you to read data in a dark setting. In the dark, this feature illuminates the dial for data reading. This comes in a traditional military-style compass designed in a small metal casing for optimum mobility. It is easy to carry about thanks to the pouch and lanyard. For outdoor aficionados, this is a must-have. And of course, a solar installer can make use of this big time.

Orienteering Compass – Hiking Backpacking Compass – Advanced Scout Compass Camping and Navigation – Boy Scout Compass Kids – Professional Field Compass for Map Reading – Best Survival Gifts

This is a professional-level compass that is suitable for many types of work. And undoubtedly, this is pretty suitable for solar installation workers as well. This is a portable handheld compass with a directional arrow and a magnetic needle. “Does what it’s supposed to do and does it well. I have dropped it twice and it’s completely fine. Glad I bought it.” This is how a buyer of this compass has reviewed it on Amazon.

13. Extension Cords

When we told you about cordless drills, we told you that having a cordless drill is much more beneficial as there is no burden with extension codes. But using a corded drill is not a problem either. All that you need to have is an extension cord.

In fact, extension cables are useful for you as you would have to take certain power tools with you. If you need them to reach where you are working, which might be on a rooftop, you may well need to have an extension cord for sure.

That is why we say that solar installers should have extension cords as part of their tools and equipment.

GE 6-Outlet Surge Protector, 10 Ft Extension Cord, Power Strip, 800 Joules, Flat Plug, Twist-to-Close Safety Covers, UL Listed, White, 14092

The extension cord includes a space-saving flat plug and an extra-long 10′ power cable with 14-gauge SJT wire, durable PVC insulation and jacket, and a space-saving flat socket to nestle against the wall. This heavy-duty wire is both robust and flexible, allowing it to be extended to its full length without difficulty. The provided keyhole holes make it simple to mount this gadget to a desk, table, or counter. So, we believe that having this as one of your solar installation tools would be beneficial.

Power Strip, Bototek Surge Protector with 10 AC Outlets and 4 USB Charging Ports,1875W/15A, 2100 Joules, 6 Feet Long Extension Cord for Smartphone Tablets Home,Office, Hotel, ETL Listed- Black

This consists of a surge protector with overload protection that protects against spikes and fluctuations. Its smart circuitry with built-in voltage sensing detects and adjusts to the power requirements of your device, while safety features keep your electronics safe. This has gotten positive reviews on Amazon for characteristics like flexibility, value for money, material quality, cord length, charging power, and WiFi signal. Due to those factors, we think that this would be ideal for you to have as one of your solar installation tools.

14. Levels

Yes, solar installers need to have levels as well. Needless to say, you can use levels to check if something is perfectly vertical or horizontal. And again, so many professionals have to use levels. Mainly, the field of construction needs levels on the whole. If something is not perfectly horizontal or vertical, that is indeed a problem. So, it is indeed important to get the support of a level to get it right.

Typically, it is the spirit levels that were widely in use. But now, things have changed. There are laser levels as well. So, you can go for a laser level as well.

As solar installers, you need to check this for the fixture of solar panels and electrical systems. Hence, you need to have a level, no matter what type.

There are mobile phone applications that provide a water level as well. But for serious tasks like solar installation, it might not be sufficient to get the right output.

WORKPRO 3-Piece Spirit Level Set(9″, 16″, 24″)， W002900A

This 3-piece spirit level set is an ideal instrument for precise dimension calibrations in construction, interior design, restorations, and many more including solar installation work. In this set, you would be getting a 9″ torpedo level, one 16″ box beam spirit level, and one 24″ box beam spirit level. With three pieces of powerful button magnet, the 9″ torpedo spirit level is excellent for plenty of tasks. Because this milled measuring surface comprises 1 vertical vial, 1 horizontal vial, and a 45-degree vial, you will be able to observe accuracy. The heavy-duty capabilities of this lightweight instrument contribute to its appeal, as it is also simple to set up and extremely robust for precise measurements.

15. Safety Equipment

Although we talk about safety equipment towards the end of this article, maybe these are the most important of all. Safety must be considered as one of your topmost priorities when you are engaged in professions like solar installation.

Hazards of Solar Installation

Do not take the risks of a profession like this for granted. No doubt, solar installation is a tough profession. It is a risky and hazardous profession. You just cannot change the nature of the profession. Of course, you must admit that.

The U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics clearly shows that solar installers may fall from ladders and roofs, get shocks from electricity, or get burns from hot tools and equipment. Yes, these are possible serious risks. To be specific, as you have to work in high places, you might slip and make a fatal fall. You have to be careful about that. As you have to deal with electrical systems on a massive scale, electrocution is another possible hazard for certain.

But as a matter of fact, we can avoid certain health risks and injuries. We can at least minimize the risks of such hazards. But we have to use the right safety gear. What can we use?

• Insulated Gloves
• Hard Hats
• Harnesses

So, let us get an idea about each of them. It would be worth it.

Insulated Gloves

As you know, electrocution is a possible risk when you are involved in tasks related to electrical systems. The best solution for this problem is wearing insulated gloves. If you are using insulated gloves, you can be pretty sure that electrocution would not be an issue for you at all costs.

National Safety Apparel Class 0 Black Rubber Voltage Insulating Glove Kit with Leather Protectors, Max. Use Voltage 1,000V AC/ 1,500V DC (KITGC009)

Anyone working on electrified equipment must wear voltage-rated gloves to protect themselves from electrical shock. These rubber voltage gloves provide various layers of electrical shock protection for a number of employees who work in such fields. So, you can keep your attention on the task at hand by wearing voltage-rated gloves that are compliant. For factors like comfort and value for money, this has received good ratings on Amazon.

Hard Hats

Well, you need hard hats especially because you have to work outside. There are lots of advantages that you would get if you use a hard hat as a solar installer. You can mainly protect yourself from objects that might accidentally strike your head. Also, you can protect yourself from natural concerns such as rain. And most of all, you would be able to protect yourself from electric shocks. That is why hard hats are important for solar installers.

3M Hard Hat, White, Lightweight, Adjustable 4-Point Ratchet, H-701R

This hard hat is adjustable, with a four-point ratchet suspension system that provides a comfortable, snug fit that helps prevent pain and slippage. The customers of this product have rated well for factors like lightness, value for money, durability, and comfort. And we think that this would be a good one for you. Further, this has received positive reviews from its customers as well.

Harnesses

Solar installers need harnesses too. A safety harness is basically to provide protection from falls from heights. The American National Standards Institute or ANSI has the rights standards with regard to harnesses. As falling from heights is the most prominent risk in terms of solar installation, this would prevent its risk. Hence, it is advisable to use a safety harness when you have to work at heights.

KwikSafety (Charlotte, NC) SCORPION Safety Harness w/attached 6ft. Tubular Lanyard on back | OSHA ANSI Fall Protection | INTERNAL Shock Absorbing Lanyard | Construction Carpenter Scaffolding

With KwikSafety’s SCORPION Fall Protection System, you would be ready to work hard up high right away. The safety harness’s integrated single-leg lanyard and snap hook provide a comprehensive safety package that is ready and proven to work in the worst-case situation. No doubt, a solar installation worker would have to work in heights. And you must be ready for that. You must have all the necessary safety gear. It is because safety is on top of every other thing. And this safety harness is what we recommend to you.

The Final Word

We told you a lot about solar installation tools. All other such professions also need tools. If you are interested, you can read about electrician tools, plumbing tools, carpentry tools, HVAC tools, landscaping tools, and lawn care tools to get a good idea. So, make use of the right tools effectively. That would help you dominate the field of solar installation. Happy Solar Installation!