Solar energy may be the energy solution of the future, so it is becoming increasingly popular to install them on your home. One problem is that solar panel installation is expensive which means the energy gains from the panels will take a long time before they pay for themselves. One solution is to lower solar panel installation costs by doing it yourself. Here are some pros and cons to this approach.
Pros:
- Saving Money: The primary reason you would want to install solar panels yourself would be the cost saving. It costs a lot to have a company install them for you, and this could save you a few years on breaking even on costs.
- The Grid: Solar panels allow you to run your home off of solar generated electricity, rather than the power grid. While your home should remain connected to both if you install solar panels, it is possible that solar panel installation can allow your home, cabin, or other property to run off-the-grid.
Cons:
- Difficult: It can be difficult to install solar panels. Everything needs to be interconnected, and this can be a complicated project to install as wiring leads from the panels to transformers to your home’s electrical system. It takes a lot of electrical knowledge to install, and while it can be done it will not be a walk in the park.
- Dangerous: Installing solar panels on your roof can be somewhat dangerous in itself but add electrical work and it can be very dangerous. While the actual dangers are low if proper precautions are taken, danger can be present.
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a project that a serious DIY-er can go for, but for many it is not worth it. Make sure to look into the good and bad sides of DIY solar panel installation to see whether you should hire someone to do it for you.
