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Should You Go DIY on Your Solar Panel Installation?

Posted on June 9, 2021

Should You Go DIY on Your Solar Panel Installation?

With a quick search engine query, you can find an excellent solar panel installation service in Littleton, CO. However, homeowners who want to save some money will understandably turn to DIY. Unfortunately, this isn’t the best way to go about your solar panel installations. Here are three reasons why.

You Won’t Get Warranties

Solar panel manufacturers work like their roof material counterparts. They only trust dependable installation teams. Plus, they have these specialists undergo certification to provide warranty-worthy services to homeowners. Therefore, DIY-installing your solar panels leaves you with zero post-sales services.

The High Risk of Expensive Failure

Solar panels are affordable nowadays. However, installation failures will still leave a dent in your budget. Therefore, this contradicts your intent to save money through DIY. Instead, you’ll likely spend the same budget with better results working with certified professionals.

Inefficient Positioning

Assuming you’ve correctly installed your solar panels, they might not work effectively because of poor positioning and alignment. Photovoltaic cells require direct and high-intensity sunlight. However, experienced installation teams can correctly position your panels quickly.

If you’d like to know the nitty-gritty details of solar panel installations for homeowners, you can refer to Storey‘s post below. 

Can I Install My Own PV (Photovoltaic) System? A DIYer’s Checklist

It’s time for the litmus test that tells you whether to proceed boldly as an amateur solar installer or to hand over the reins to a professional. For most of you, the decision will come down to the rules of the local building authority (most likely your city, county, township, or state) or your utility provider, either of which may require that solar installations be done by a licensed professional. This is also the best time to confirm that your project won’t be nixed by your zoning department, historical district standards, or your homeowner’s association.

·         Amateur installation is permitted by the local building authority and your utility provider.

·         Requirements for amateur installation are reasonable and acceptable. Some authorities require nonprofessionals to pass tests demonstrating basic knowledge of electrical and other household systems, but such tests may not be extensive.

·         You’re okay with several hours of physical rooftop work (those with ground-mount systems get a pass here) AND you’re wise enough to wear legitimate fall-arresting equipment (not a rope tied around your waist). You may feel as confident as Mary Poppins dancing on rooftops, but she can fly; you should be tethered.

·         You don’t live in a historical district or, if you do, the zoning authority permits PV systems (with acceptable restrictions).

·         Your homeowner’s association, if you have one, permits PV systems (with acceptable restrictions). Sometimes the homeowner’s association may need a little nudging to give permission. (Continued)

You can always count on us at Roper Roofing & Solar to install your solar panels in the best way possible. Contact us today to learn more about everything that we can do for you.