PVDS Test Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q21Which of the following is most important to document when conducting a preliminary site assessment for a roof-mounted PV array?
✓ Correct answer: D. Roof age, condition, and material
Roof age, condition and material are critical factors that determine if a roof is suitable for a PV installation and how long it might last in relation to the expected lifespan of the PV system.
Q22When assessing a potential ground mount location, which soil characteristic is most important to document?
✓ Correct answer: C. Soil composition and stability
Soil composition affects foundation design and stability for ground-mounted systems, determining what type of foundation is appropriate and what engineering considerations are needed.
Q23What tool is most commonly used to conduct a comprehensive shading analysis of a proposed PV array location?
✓ Correct answer: B. Solar pathfinder or solar access measurement tool
Solar pathfinders or solar access measurement tools are specifically designed to evaluate shading throughout the year by mapping the sun's path across the sky and identifying obstructions.
Q24When assessing roof load capacity for a PV installation, which of the following represents a dead load?
✓ Correct answer: A. Weight of PV modules and racking system
Dead loads are permanent, constant loads on a structure. The weight of the PV modules and racking system is considered a dead load because it's permanently attached to the roof.
Q25What is the primary concern when assessing the viability of a flat roof membrane for PV installation?
✓ Correct answer: D. Age, condition, and warranty status of the membrane
The age, condition, and warranty status of the membrane are critical because installing PV on a roof that will need replacement soon is problematic and could void existing warranties.
Q26Which of the following site hazards should be documented during a site assessment for a ground-mounted PV array?
✓ Correct answer: C. Underground utilities and service lines
Underground utilities pose significant safety risks during construction and foundation work for ground-mounted systems. Identifying these hazards before construction begins is essential for safety planning.
Q27When using a solar pathfinder for shading analysis, what time period is most critical to analyze for maximum PV production in the northern hemisphere?
✓ Correct answer: B. 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM represents the period of highest solar intensity and potential production, making it the most critical period to be shade-free for maximum system performance.
Q28Which tool would be most appropriate for determining the slope of a roof during a site assessment?
✓ Correct answer: A. Inclinometer or digital level
An inclinometer or digital level is specifically designed to measure angles and slopes, making it the most appropriate tool for determining roof pitch accurately.
Q29When assessing equipment locations for a residential PV system, which of the following is a primary consideration for inverter placement?
✓ Correct answer: D. Accessibility for maintenance and service
Accessibility for maintenance and service is critical for inverter placement to ensure that the equipment can be easily accessed for repairs and routine maintenance throughout its lifetime.
Q30What information about nearby trees should be documented during a site assessment for long-term shading analysis?
✓ Correct answer: C. Species, height, and maturity level
Species, height, and maturity are important because they help predict future shading impacts as trees grow taller and wider, potentially affecting system performance over time.
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