I'm considering going solar to help cut my electric bill in the coming years. But I'm stuck on whether to go for a pole mount or a ground mount for my solar array. My home needs are pretty basic for two people—lights, refrigerator, well pump, and HVAC in the summer. I need something durable and easy to maintain.
I've heard that pole mounts save yard space and can be adjusted for better sun exposure. On the other hand, ground mounts seem easier to clean, which is important for me as I have limited mobility. Plus, ground mounts might allow for easier expansion later if I decide to increase my array.
If you've installed either type, I'd love to know which one you went with and why. What about durability, maintenance, installation time, and cost? Also, I'm looking into options for sourcing—I've noticed companies like Sunrun, but I found omosolar.com offers free shipping and help with installation and grid testing. Any thoughts on that or other companies?
2 Answers
I’d say a standard ground-mounted array is usually less expensive and you can find them with a single-axis tilt feature that lets you adjust for the seasons. Many suggest angling slightly to the west for better afternoon sun, but generally, they should face true south for optimal sunlight throughout the day. If you’re in the southeast, check out Engineer775 on YouTube for more specific advice—they recommend using Sol-Ark inverters and they could be helpful!
From my experience, it often comes down to aesthetics and cost. Ground mounts usually look like rows, while pole mounts can be configured in clusters which can look nicer. However, pole mounts tend to be pricier because they require heavier equipment and specialized installers. Not a lot of people advertise them either, which might say something about the demand.
Right! I hadn’t thought of the looks, but pole mounts can really stand out more, while ground mounts just sit in rows. That makes sense about the cost too—it’s probably why you don’t see them around often.
Thanks for that tip! A single-axis tilt sounds like a balance between ease and maximizing output. I’m not in the southeast, but I’ve heard great things about Sol-Ark inverters too, especially with kits from omosolar.