Can You Install Your Own Solar Panels?

When you choose to put solar panels on your home, you may be wondering if you should install them yourself. After all, you have probably saved money on many other home improvement projects by going DIY. But solar power is not your average “weekend-warrior” project. 

Here are some key reasons you’ll be better off hiring a professional solar panel installer for your Alberta home, and why attempting the installation yourself may actually end up costing you more money.

Planning and Expertise

Contrary to what you might be imagining, the most complicated part of the project isn’t putting the panels on your roof – it’s the planning of your system. For example, what size of solar paneling system is the best match for your electricity use? Based on how much sun exposure your property receives, what azimuth and tilt angle of your solar panels array is the most appropriate for you? Can your roof take the additional weight of the panels? Are there any shading issues? An experienced Alberta solar installer can answer all these questions and many more, helping you maximize your investment.

Getting the planning phase wrong will put you at several disadvantages. For one, if you fail to place your solar panels correctly, it’s unlikely they will generate the correct amount of power for your home. That means you will save less money on your electric bill – which defeats the purpose of installing solar panels in the first place.

Shading from trees or roof obstructions may have a detrimental effect on the performance of your solar panels system

Installing solar panels incorrectly can also cause unanticipated problems, like a leaky roof. If you did the installation yourself, you’d be responsible for the costs of fixing any mistakes you made during the process. However, a reputable, professional installer knows how to install solar panels without causing property damage – and they’ll offer a warranty on their work, so if anything did go wrong, you wouldn’t be the one paying for it.

Permits and Regulations

Another important part of a solar installation is meeting all the necessary regulations. There’s a lot of paperwork involved with going solar – from permitting to building codes, connection agreements, applying for subsidies under the Alberta Residential and Commercial Solar program, etc. If you did the project yourself, how would you know all the forms you need to complete? Will you project require a report and a final sign-off letter by a Professional Engineer licensed in Alberta?

Providing a solar modules layout is one of the requirements for building permit and other applications

A professional installer can help you navigate all the complex details of securing the right permits, getting approval from inspectors, meeting electrical codes and complying with safety standards. Since local codes can vary, you may need to apply for approvals from various city planning departments or your Wire Service Provider. Your installer should be familiar with all the local requirements that apply to your project and make sure you’ve checked all the right boxes.

Although it’s not a regulation, a professional installer can also make sure your solar panels meet all the manufacturer requirements to not void the warranty, so if you ever need to replace a panel that goes bad early, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing the installation is covered under that guarantee. Please keep in mind that some of the trusted solar panels brands manufacturers work exclusively with installers or distributors, and do not sell to general public.

As a comparison, if you’d like to receive FREE estimates for your solar panels project from professional installers in Alberta, please fill out a request form, and we’ll get back to you withing 24 hours!