Can I Install My Own Solar Panels?

When you think of solar panels the average person will probably think installing them on their own is way out of their league. The truth is any competent do-it-yourselfer with a basic knowledge of wiring and construction can install them.

You will however be subject to compliance with all local wiring and building codes, the installation will have to pass inspection by the local utility operator and it must be in accordance with any homeowners association contracts you might have. Actually the "red tape' may be more difficult than the installation process.

One valuable tool in your bid to install your solar panels is the Internet. There are a number of videos, sites and pages dedicated to helping everyone, interested in "going green', with the process.

Most will guide you step by step through the entire process. From how to figure out what to purchase all the way to the end of the project. You will get detailed descriptions and even photos showing you what each completed step should, and even more importantly shouldn't, look like. The horror stories are there too, not to frighten you, but merely to show you the worse case scenarios and keep you informed.

You can get a lot of help from forums and other online discussion groups. There is nothing a DIY'er likes more than sharing knowledge. You can also get great material from your local library. This is a valuable resource that has been grossly neglected. The great thing about the public library is that it is now also online.

One thing you should be aware of before moving forward, a home energy audit should be the first thing you do. This is vital information useful in helping you to determine the amount of electricity your household generally uses to run smoothly. Once you know this, buying the right number of panels and other equipment will be easier. A solar fountain or a rain barrel driven sprinkling system may not need as much electricity as a solar water heater.

You also need to know if the infrastructure of your home can support the weight of the solar panels. A structural assessment is in order. Get a weight estimate of the solar panels and the mounting gear. A home contractor or roofing company can provide you with the proper numbers for structural integrity.

Now here comes the deceptively simple part of the entire process. The solar site assessment, just a fancy way to say you need to find out where you get he most sunlight. It may be that limbs will need to be trimmed to get the maximum amount of light necessary for electricity production.

A final thought, make sure you are aware of any building and zoning ordinances that your solar panel installation might affect and get your permits. You should also meet with the local utility to find out their requirements as well as having cleared the project with the homeowners association if needed.

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