Should you DIY or hire a Professional for Solar Installation?
When it comes to installing solar panels you have two options. The first option is “do it yourself” (DIY), which will save you money in the long run but does require a bit of work and time on your part.
The other one is hiring professionals that have completed numerous installations and are very probably licensed in the state they serve.
Both options have their plus and minus. We are going to discuss which option should be a better one by looking at different considerations.
Advantages of working with a Solar Contractor
Last Longer
Professionally installed solar panels last years longer than those you install on your own, and they can save you from a wide variety of hassle.
Not only will professional installers make sure that everything goes smoothly and safely, but they also guarantee safe installation as well as 24/7 availability in case you have any issues later down the road with power or production.
Professionals know how
When it comes to solar energy, you don't want shoddy wiring or a panel that's too big for your roof.
Professional installers know how to avoid these problems and get the most out of their installation so they save you money on electricity bills every month.
A professional solar installer will not only install your system but will also ensure that it meets electrical code requirements and is error-free.
They are well-versed in roofing due to the fact that they have installed many systems on rooftops during their time with their company.
Because each installation site varies slightly depending on its unique design specifications, a qualified specialist knows exactly where you should position panels for maximum efficiency or even how much space they need to be separated from one another.
A professional solar installer will be able to tell you whether or not your roof is suitable for a system.
They'll answer any questions you have about the process, such as how much it costs and what size system they recommend in order to determine whether it's worth installing one in this area at all.
When it comes to solar electricity, there's a lot of options and information out there. Choosing the right system for your household can be hard! An expert will help provide you with resources that are tailored towards what you need most in order to make this decision easier on yourself.
They also have access to many different systems such as grid-tied or net-metered energy systems which they'll be able to evaluate side by side so that any pros and cons associated with each one are made clear before making an informed choice about how best to proceed going forward.
Higher quality workmanship
Solar installers are professionals with years of experience. The workmanship and installation are higher quality than a do-it-yourself attempt.
You can connect to grid
If you work with a solar installer, you can connect your system to the grid. This means even if your solar panels do not completely meet your electrical needs, you can still use electricity from your utility company.
In addition, depending on the area, you may be eligible to receive compensation for supplying excess power to the grid.
They help with permits
Installing solar panels can be a daunting and time-consuming process. If the homeowner intends to connect their installation to the local energy grid, they will need a state permit as well as inspections by both an electric company and other officials.
Certain paperwork may also be required during this process, which can take weeks or months if not managed properly by professionals who are familiar with the process.
Free Ongoing Maintenance
Solar panel manufacturers often offer maintenance plans for their products. This helps reduce the hassle of having to deal with repairs yourself, as well as saving you money on service fees in the long run.
Some solar power providers also offer ongoing maintenance programs, which can help customers save time and money when it comes to panel maintenance.
Not only will they handle all minor problems, such as repairing broken parts or cleaning debris from around them, but they will also perform scheduled inspections so you don't miss potential problems before something major happens.
Disadvantages of working with a Solar Contractor
More Expensive
A professional solar installation is more expensive than a do-it-yourself installation. For a fraction of the cost, it may appear appealing to install panels on your own roof rather than hiring a company to do so. However, there are numerous reasons why this is not advised.
You're probably not familiar with how all of the components work together to generate energy from sunlight.
Each component performs a specific function that affects other parts of the system or even outside systems via power surges returning into electrical wiring, causing fire hazards and overloading equipment due to too much electricity at once.
Permits are never guaranteed
If you intend to hire an installer, you must complete the necessary paperwork. The company may assist you, but there is a chance your permit will be rejected, and they will no longer work with you.
Before selecting any installers, you should research what is mandated for installing solar panels in your area so that you can choose one who also meets those prerequisites.
Advantages of DIY “do it yourself” Solar Installation
Cheaper to Install
In the short term, DIY solar installations may be less expensive. However, they are not as long-lasting because you must usually maintain them yourself, which will undoubtedly become costly over time due to the required upkeep.
Warranty (Although limited)
While you won't be able to get a warranty on your installation if you do it yourself, many solar panel manufacturers do offer warranties on their products.
If your panels stop working within a year or two of installation, contact the manufacturer because they may be able to help with any issues that arise, as long as they are not caused by extreme weather conditions like tornadoes and hurricanes.
Disadvantages of DIY “do it yourself” Solar Installation
Creates more expenses later
One of the most significant risks with doing your own install is that you will need to make sure they are installed correctly in order to avoid fluctuations or damage as time passes by which means more maintenance than professionals would typically provide.
A DIY solar installation might save you money upfront, but the lack of warranty and expertise can lead to expensive repairs in the future.
Homeowners who choose to do their own installations may have trouble finding an installer willing to warranty the workmanship under such circumstances, meaning these homeowners could end up paying double what professional installations cost.
You cannot connect to grid
If you buy a solar kit and deploy it yourself, your system is unlikely to be connected to the main power grid. Installing solar power and connecting it to your utility company's grid necessitates the submission of permits that must be signed off on by a professional.
If you do not use a professional, the power company will most likely not connect you to their system due to liability concerns.
Furthermore, if you go off-grid, you must ensure that your panels can meet all of your electrical needs.
You’ll pay Permit & Inspection Fees
The DIY solar installation will require homeowners to pay for permits and inspections. This will cost at least $500 more than expected if done by professionals with an established track record.
Moreover, installing your own system can be risky because it has the potential for electrical hazards or fires that could result in injury and home damages as well as increased insurance premiums later on down the line should something happen after the installation of this DIY project.
