You can DIY solar panels for your home—but should you?

Solar panels are a viable way to power your home, thanks to their efficiency and decreasing cost. They’re especially affordable now thanks to the federal tax credits available for those who use solar panels for their homes. That said, cheaper or not, renovating your home can be a daunting undertaking, especially if you’re considering installing a solar panel system yourself. While it is possible to DIY, there are several variables you must consider in your planning.

Do you have the necessary skills, experience, and understanding?

Installing a solar panel system can be complicated, with numerous consequences of incorrect installation, including the power simply not working, leaks in your roof, or even an electrical fire. You need a clear understanding of both electrical systems and how to physically install a large, heavy structure either on your roof or on the ground.

Before installing a solar panel system yourself, be honest about whether you possess the necessary skill set and the willingness and time to learn how to use it effectively. If you don’t, you should consider hiring a professional to install the systems for you. After all, it’s typically more expensive to bring someone in to fix a project than to bring them in to do it right the first time.

Research the specific requirements for your type of system

Depending on the kind of solar panel system you’re installing and where you live, there are different regulations, permits, and inspection requirements. In many areas, installing solar on a home that remains connected to the grid comes with stringent rules for both the plan and the installation, including coordination with your utility company.

If you’re installing an off-grid system, such as in an outbuilding, cabin, or RV, then the requirements are likely far less demanding; however, you will still need permits and inspections. Before you begin detailed planning for your project, contact your local building department to determine the specific requirements for your type of system.

Not all solar panels are created equal

When examining the hardware itself, it can be tempting to save money by opting for the most affordable panels available. However, the purchase price doesn’t always tell the whole story in terms of affordability. First and foremost, consider the durability of the panels. Does the company have a reputation for developing long-lasting systems, and does it offer a warranty to support that reputation? If you have to replace the system after 10 years when a slightly more expensive system would have lasted 25 years, you didn't save any money.

The second consideration is the efficiency of the panels. The more efficient the panels, the more power you’ll generate, and the more of your electrical costs you’ll offset. Those costs accumulate over the system's lifetime. A 10% lower installation price might be negated by the increased energy production associated with higher-quality panels.

Be aware of hidden costs

Don’t overlook the costs that extend beyond the panels, rails, wires, and batteries associated with installing a solar panel system. For example, if you install a new solar panel system on the roof, you may need to reinforce the underlying structure to ensure its stability. Before you begin, ensure that the roof shingles are relatively new, or plan for the expense of removing the system to install a new roof in a few years.

Another consideration is ensuring that your system is positioned to receive as much sunlight as possible during the day. This may involve removing some trees, which can be costly if you need to hire a professional to do so. Additional costs may include upgrading your electric panel, clearing snow from the panels in winter, and addressing potential damage.

Consider battery storage

Solar panels only generate power when the sun is shining. When installed in your home, a dip in sunlight usually isn’t an issue when you’re connected to the power grid, and you can just draw from that power overnight or on dim, cloudy winter days. However, if you’re using solar in an off-grid installation, such as a cabin in the woods, then you need to figure out how to get power when the sun isn’t out.

One option is to use a gasoline-powered generator, so long as you operate it safely. If you want to stick to solar power, there are numerous options for battery storage, which use solar power to charge them for use when the sun isn’t out. Battery systems are a fantastic complement to a solar setup, but they may come with installation complexities and a specific set of regulations and building codes to be aware of.

When in doubt, bring in a professional to help

Sometimes you can’t do every step of the process yourself—and indeed, there are certain situations where you may not legally be allowed to do all the work yourself. Many professionals can come in at various steps to help you with planning, installation, or navigating the regulatory and code framework. If a part of the process seems too far outside your area of expertise, consider consulting a professional for assistance.

After all, you don’t save any money if you install a solar panel system that doesn’t ever work.