It is possible for an individual to install solar roof panels by themselves if they spend the time learning the process. Installing solar panels yourself can save you anything between 10-15% of the total cost of going solar. Considering that a solar system can cost up to $25,000, that is quite a saving you could be making.
But how easy or difficult is it to install solar panels yourself? This definitive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about DIY solar installations.
We will take you through the pros and cons of installing solar yourself. We will also guide you through the steps or preparations you need to know before laying a single panel on your roof. To complete this guide, we will explore some of the things you need to avoid when you decide to install solar yourself.
Also, check out “Does Solar Increase Home /Property Value? (What You Need To Know! )“
On a side note! If you’re in need of a reliable and high-performance portable solar panel, We strongly recommend the Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel (Amazon Link).
With a high conversion efficiency and foldable design, this solar panel is easy to transport and set up, making it perfect for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and RV trips.
The US solar cell technology used in this panel ensures that you get the most efficient and reliable solar charging possible.
There is also a 60W option that is more affordable (Amazon Link)
Is It Easy to Install Solar Panels on A Roof?
Installing solar on your roof is not difficult as many homeowners have found. While you can do it yourself, you need to first educate yourself about solar systems to avoid some of the mistakes people make when they try to install solar panels themselves.
Solar panel DIY can be a rewarding experience. It directly puts money in your pocket by saving on labor expenses. The most important thing is to get all the facts together long before you start to avoid costly mistakes. The most common mistakes with solar panel DIY are:
- Not sizing the system correctly
- Not getting the right equipment
- Not installing the system correctly.
For more on solar panels and money, check out our post ” Can You Make Money with Solar Panels Installed on Your House? Is It Worth It!“
In this article, we will cover the basics you need to know to avoid making those mistakes but before we do, what are the advantages and disadvantages of installing solar panels yourself?
What Do You Need to Install Solar Panels Yourself?
To install your solar panels, you need to get permits. Once you have the permits you need to get solar panels. The other equipment you may need will depend on your system design. For grid-tied systems, you need to add inverters. For off-grid systems, you need to add inverters and batteries.
Solar systems can be divided into grid-tied and off-grid. With a grid-tied system, you are connected to your power company. Inverters are necessary but batteries are optional. Grid-tied systems are more suited for people who want to reduce their energy bills or who need a backup power source.
In an off-grid system, you are not connected to a power company. You supply all your energy. Off-grid systems are more expensive than grid-tied systems since they require a large number of batteries.
The video below should help you figure out what you need and kickstart your project,
What Are the Pros and Cons of Installing Solar Panels Yourself?
The biggest pro of installing solar panels yourself is the money you would save. Hiring a contractor to do it for you adds at least 10% to the final cost of going solar.
Doing it yourself also adds a little more flexibility to how you go about it. You can start by installing a smaller number of solar panels and gradually build your way up as you get more comfortable and experienced. This is a little more expensive to do when you hire a contractor.
The major downside to installing solar yourself is the impact it has on your roof and solar panel warranties. Most roofing manufacturers and solar panel manufacturers have strict stipulations about the validity of their warranties if repairs or installations are made by anyone unqualified.
There is also the labor of DIY solar. Getting a contractor to do it means you do not have to design your system. It means you do not have to worry about what permits you need to get. All of that is handled by the contractor. When you decide to go DIY, you bear the burden of all that.
These are the three biggest factors you need to consider when you decide to install solar yourself. Once you do decide it is worth it, you need to plan every step to make sure you do not make any unnecessary mistakes. The first step to this is working out how much energy you need.
How Many Solar Panels Can Power a House?
You need between 15 to 20 solar panels to power a house. The number depends primarily on your energy consumption, the type of solar panels you choose, and how much sunshine your home receives.
To work out how many solar panels you need first look at how much energy you want them to supply you with. If you want them to supply all your energy then the first thing to do is work out how much energy you use.
The simplest way to do this is to total your use for a year and get the monthly average. From the monthly average, you can divide by 30 to get your average daily use. Your average may be higher or lower but the average home in the U.S uses around 30 kWh. (Source)
For more on this, check out our post “Can a House Run on Solar Power Alone from Roof Solar Panels?“
Your next step is to get a sun-hours map to see how much sunlight your solar panels would receive.
Arizona receives more sunlight than Alaska for example. Depending on where you are you will receive more or fewer sunlight hours. There are also tools online you can use to calculate your sun hours. (Source)
Finally, you have to choose which solar panels to go with. Solar panels come in different technologies, sizes, and power ratings. Monocrystalline solar panels are the most efficient compared to other alternatives like a polycrystalline or thin film.
How Are Solar Panels Put on A Roof?
Solar panels need to face south if you are in the northern hemisphere. They also need to be tilted at an angle of about 30° to capture more sunlight. They should also be located away from shade.
These are the main factors you need to be aware of. You also need to consider the type and condition of your roof. You should have your roof inspected by a roofer to make sure it is in the right condition and age to install solar panels.
Also, check out our post on ” How High Can You Mount Solar Panels? Brief Placement Guide!“
Is It Legal to Install Solar Panels Yourself?
DIY solar is perfectly legal. Amateur installation is allowed by most local building authorities and power utilities. You should however check specifically to make sure. You should also check with your homeowner’s association.