In the US, there were roughly 2.7 million household solar systems at the end of 2020. Solar energy is one of the most effective and sustainable ways to reduce our carbon footprint.
For most of us, getting solar panels installed can be a little expensive. Also, most homeowners insurance plans don’t cover the installation of solar panels, meaning that you’ll have to pay extra for having them installed.
As a result, a lot of people have decided to opt for DIY solar panel installation. But have you thought of the risks of installing DIY solar systems?
Complicated Planning Process
A large-scale solar panel installation is a complicated planning process. The benefits of a DIY installation may not be worth the considerable time, effort, and money required.
For proper solar panel installation, you will have to consider the total wattage output, the pitch, and construction of the roof, as well as the home’s electrical configuration. Solar panels are a significant investment, and the process of installing them is often complex and time-consuming.
Many professional solar panel installers have years of experience and specialized training. Installing solar with Blue Raven can help ensure that your solar panel installation is done correctly and meets all local building codes.
Potential Fire or Burns
If you’re thinking about installing solar panels on your own, think twice. Solar panel installation is a job best left to the professionals, as it involves climbing on your roof, working with electricity, and soldering.
Doing it on your own may put you at risk for potential fire or burns. While solar panels are relatively safe once installed, the process of installation is dangerous and should only be attempted by those with the experience and knowledge to do so safely.
Damage to the Electrical System
Many people believe that they can save money by installing solar panels themselves, but this is often not the case. The solar panel installation process requires special tools and knowledge of the electrical system, which can damage the electrical system if done incorrectly.
Some parts of the solar panels, like the collector manifold, can get extremely hot and may cause severe burns to an unwitting homeowner. Also, any liquid that gets in contact with the panels can cause steam and even instant burns. In some cases, solar panel installation can even void the warranty on the solar panels.
It is crucial to hire a certified professional to install solar panels. This is to ensure that the job is done properly and to avoid any damage to your home’s electrical system.
Risk of Electrocution
Solar panels must be correctly installed and grounded in order to work properly and be safe. Attempting a DIY installation can be extremely dangerous, as there is a risk of electrocution. Without the proper training and experience, it is very easy to make a mistake that could result in serious injury or even death.
When exposed to the sun, solar panels can provide up to 600 volts of power. The multiple solar modules linked in the series may be able to provide even more of a charge to non-professional DIYers.
Height and Process of Installation
For homeowners who aren’t qualified professionals, the risk of suffering injuries in a slip-and-fall is very significant, regardless of how high your roof is (one storey, two stories, or more).
Solar panels need to be installed at a certain height to be most effective, and the installation process can be quite involved. Opting for a DIY installation can be dangerous and could result in damage to your property. If you’re not experienced in solar panel installation, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
You Can Miss Out on Grants
Solar panels are a great way to save money on your energy bill, but you can miss out on grants by not installing them correctly. Many states and utility companies offer grants for solar panel installation, but these grants are often given to professionals who have experience installing them.
For example, the NYSERDA grants provide funding for clean energy solutions. But, you won’t be able to receive one if the solar installer is not certified by the NABCEP.
You Might Miss Out on Perks
Solar panel installation is a big job. If you don’t do it right, you might miss out on perks like tax breaks or rebates. When you engage with experts, they will take care of things like the precise permissions and utility work that must be done to connect the system to the grid.
So, think twice about going for the DIY route when it comes to solar panel installation. It’s just not worth the risk.
Avoid Taking the DIY Solar Panel Installation to Minimize Risks
Although installing solar panels yourself may seem like a cost-effective option, it is important to remember that solar panel installation is a complex process that requires specialized skills and knowledge. You cannot just follow directions on the videos or what you read online. DIY solar panel installation is too risky, and a lot of things can go wrong if you are not skilled and knowledgeable.
Attempting to install solar panels without the proper training can result in serious safety hazards and damage to your property. For these reasons, it is best to leave the job to professionals who know how to install solar panels.
Did you find this article on installing DIY solar panels helpful? If so, check out our other posts, from home improvement projects to financial tips.