Have you ever considered DIY solar panel installation? One of the main reasons for exploring DIY solar panels is the expectation of cost savings.
Homeowners can avoid installation fees, lowering their spending and getting a faster return on investment. Additionally, using solar energy reduces electricity bills and provides long-term financial benefits. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
However, while a DIY solar system method may appear advantageous, it is critical to remember that a solar power system is more than just a row of panels on the roof; it is a more complex process requiring extensive expert skills and understanding.
Electrical work, proper system sizing, and compliance with local rules are the first factors to consider before taking on the project. Let’s review the main steps, tools, and best practices for a successful solar panel installation.
Before planning a solar panel installation, everyone wants to understand what expenses to expect and be able to calculate the long-term savings from green energy as well as the immediate ones when considering a DIY solar panel setup.
Solar panels produce “free” electricity, but setting up a system is still expensive. A typical American household requires a 10-kilowatt (kW) system to power their home, costing $28,241 in 2025. After factoring in the full federal solar tax credit, the price decreases to $19,873.
If you just need a few panels for a small DIY solar project, be ready to spend around $200 to $350 per panel (between $0.80 and $1.40 per watt).
However, the final price of your solar system installation will depend on multiple factors. Let’s have a closer look at what should be taken into account when estimating the spending:
Don’t waste another second—get a free solar quote and receive estimates from solar experts in your area!
Installing solar panels requires careful planning, the right equipment, and proper implementation. No matter whether you decide to go the DIY route or hire a professional local installer, the following steps will help you get an efficient solar setup.
The size and the price of your future solar system will depend on your household’s energy requirements. Take some time to analyze your electricity bills from last year to know your typical monthly kWh usage.
Solar installations must follow local utility and construction codes, and you will need to apply for municipal permits. Your utility provider must approve net metering and grid connection for a grid-tied system. Obtaining all the permits is commonly offered by the installation company. Mind that failure to get permits can result in fines or system disconnections.
Spend some time discovering the market and selecting the appropriate solar equipment. The type and brand of solar panels, inverters, and mounting systems can affect energy production and the final price. For instance, monocrystalline panels are efficient but more expensive, while polycrystalline panels are cheaper but less efficient. If you want to store excess energy, you’ll have to consider battery storage systems.
The racking for the heavy solar panels must be firmly secured to the roof structure. It’s important to prevent wind and weather damage, especially in areas with possible severe weather conditions. Ground-mounted systems need a sturdy base to support panels over time. When connecting the panels to the racks, adjusting the panel angle to your location is crucial for the full solar exposure. The more sun your panels receive, the more energy they produce.
When attaching solar panels to electrical components, safety must always come first. The panels must be connected in parallel or series for voltage and current. The inverter, to which the wires are connected, converts DC panels into AC power for your house.
Installing a grid-tied system requires connecting the inverter to your home’s electrical panel. Off-grid inverters are connected to battery banks to store energy for offline use. Do the testing before your first launch using a multimeter to check your panels’ voltage and current. If you choose a grid-connected system, note that your energy provider or local authorities can inspect it before activating it.
Source: My Engineering
When the system is activated, you must know it works correctly and be notified of any issues. Consider using an efficient monitoring system to help you identify the problems in real time and fix them as soon as possible.
Cleaning the panels and checking for loose wiring will prolong solar system effectiveness and durability.
It is common among motivated homeowners to calculate the savings from DIY solar system installation based on the price of solar panels. One might think the spending is over once the panels and mounting hardware are purchased.
However, you must acknowledge that solar system installation is much more complicated than just mounting panels on the roof. Learning more about the preparation steps and the process itself is highly recommended, as it will include many steps such as assessment, planning, mounting, connecting, applying for incentives, and preparing all the documentation.
Additionally, it may include roof repair, monitoring, and continued support to ensure your system works correctly and efficiently. That is why selecting the best solar installer can save you time and effort and provide peace of mind. You can easily get a quote from several installers in your state to learn and compare the options for your household.
However, let’s look at the numbers to understand if DIY solar panels installation is worth it if you know your skills. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, installation labor contributes to around 5.5% of the overall cost of a residential solar project. This comes to $1,375 for a $25,000 solar project. This figure can appear fairly low to homeowners who are used to labor accounting for a larger portion of the cost of auto repairs, landscape maintenance, and other home improvements.
Moreover, professionally certified solar installation companies often offer labor and materials guarantees, monitoring systems that are sometimes free, service, and help with all the documentation and connection to the grid.
| Factor | DIY Solar Panels | Professional Services |
| Cost | Lower (saves on labor) | Higher (including labor, warranties, and service) |
| Complexity of work | High (requires electrical and roofing knowledge) | Low (handled by experts) |
| Time Needed for Installation | Weeks to months | A few days to a week |
| Warranty Coverage | Limited ( only includes manufacturer warranties) | Usually includes warranties on labor and equipment |
| Support | Issues to be handled by the homeowner | Handled by the installer (can be free or paid), can include real-time system monitoring |
| Permits and Other Documentation | Managed by the homeowner | Managed by the installer |
There are cases when DIY solar installation might be feasible. These are the cases for simple constructions with lower risks:
| Ground-mounted systems | These are simpler to install than roof-mounted panels and require fewer structural considerations. |
| Off-grid solar installations | Cabins, RVs, boats, or other small-scale solar setups are easier to install without utility connections. |
| Pre-assembled DIY solar system kits | Some companies offer plug-and-play solar kits designed for easy DIY installation. |
| Technical knowledge | DIY solar panel installation can be more manageable if you have experience with electrical work and construction. |
No doubt, DIY solar installation can be beneficial. But at the same time, you shouldn’t underestimate the risks it can include. The system installation and connection require technical skills and background to avoid incorrect operation and possible harm:
Don’t waste another second—get a free solar quote and receive estimates from solar experts in your area!