The growth of solar power is continuing its trend upwards and so is the amount of promoted DIY solar panel kits out on web. DIY solar panel kits may seem like the ideal solution as you may initially think it’s going to help cut down on cost; however, this isn’t necessarily the case. Professional solar installers go through a significant amount of training to be experts in their trade, with some even receiving advanced accreditations like a NABCEP Certification.
Here are five reasons why you shouldn’t go the DIY solar route:
- First, and foremost, you’re likely not qualified to do so. Would you install your own central air conditioner or furnace, or rewire the electric in your house? Likely not, you’d leave it up to professionals to do it, which is exactly what you should do with installing solar panels.
- The standard life span of solar panels professionally installed by a solar installer is 25 years; whereas, DIY solar panels are said to not last very long and the efficiency will decrease over a short period of time.
- Maintenance will be much more demanding and with maintenance comes cost. This isn’t ideal because it could very well turn into a full-time job and you will most likely not get the type of investment you want.
- Another initial investment you must make is getting your DIY solar panels certified. This process takes months and can cost you thousands of dollars.
- You will have to ensure that the DIY solar panels are safe, getting them inspected by an electrical inspector, as well as complying with any regulations or standards your power company requires. As such, working with a consumer top-rated (and certified) solar installer will help make these processes run smoother.
- A small misjudgment of the condition of your rooftop can essentially cost you thousands of dollars in repairs if not inspected properly. Knowing how and where to position your solar panels are incredibly important.
Now, here are some recommendations you should consider before going solar:
- Available rebates and incentives in your state.
- Research the top consumer rated solar installers in your area.
- Choose the right solar installer as it will make your experience a great one.
- Decide if you’re going to lease, finance or pay cash for your solar power system.
- Research solar power facts, so that you are well equipped to make the best decision for your home.
Garfield said at 3:48 am on 9th March 2013:
I response to Todd above, I respectfully disagree. Unless you are a licensed plumber and understand how to properly solder joints, drill holes in your rooftop, safely anchor yourself to a roof and about a thousand more reasons to list, there is no reason for you to not hire a local contractor that is certified in delivering you a solar power system. The professional installation will pay for itself in the long run especially with warranty issues. Not mention you'll have to properly install a solar hot water tank as well in your home which can be a pain. There are times when DIY might be okay (wiring a new outlet in your home), but when you need to install a 4x10 solar thermal panel on your home, it is definitely NOT a good idea to do it yourself. Life according to Todd would have you building your own car, your own TV, sewing your own socks and shoes. There's a reason companies sell products: you don't have the time nor the skill to do everything yourself.
Todd said at 9:42 am on 1st March 2013:
In examples like this, it is very important to distinguish solar PV and solar thermal. Solar thermal is much more conducive to DIY installations. In fact, the only way that we will reach any type of market penetration within several years for solar thermal is with simple DIY kits for domestic hot water only, not home heating. I appreciate that this site is designed around solar pv but in a broad sense, misconceptions can easily be propagated. DIY Solar Thermal IS recommended. Several manufacturers offer almost fool proof kits.
Dave said at 9:02 am on 1st March 2013:
Valid points. I am the owner and CEO of a small company that builds solar and wind power systems. Education is important to being able to properly design and size the systems for optimum use. I tend to over-build them but for a different reason. They are portable and need to be able to withstand travel while still being able to set them up and get operational quickly. One advantage here is hybridization. Not just solar and not just wind. Secondly, these systems are more affordable, and end user costs are likely less that many systems that get the tax breaks. These tax advantages are not going to last for ever, so I never even factor them in. All of my components are commercially available and UL listed. You can't get that with home-brew systems but if you are an experimenter or hobbyist, think of it that way. Though you will probably see some payback, it will not be as high as anticipated.