To begin with, let’s talk dollars and cents. According to Energy Sage, the average gross cost of DIY solar system installation is $16,680. In other words, that’s what you’ll pay for your actual solar components, before taking into account rebates and other tax incentives.
By contrast, the average cost of having your installation done by one of the top solar companies can exceed $20,000 — and that’s after tax credit incentives and rebates. In other words, choosing DIY solar panels can definitely be less expensive.
But why is this, exactly? When you go with a professional installation company, a big chunk of your overall cost is going to the design of your new solar power system, as well as labor costs. By eliminating those two expenses, you can shave several thousand dollars off the total price tag.
The flip side is that professional installers are generally able to buy solar panels, solar inverters and the best solar batteries from wholesale distributors, which means they can access a wider range of products and get them for lower prices than what’s available to the general public.
In thinking about the cost of solar panels, it’s also important to factor in the longevity of your system. After all, $16,680 is still a steep investment, so how much value can you expect in the long run?
In general, a residential renewable energy system built with the best solar panels should last anywhere from 25 to 35 years. Average that out to 30 years, and the cost of installation can be annualized to around $556.
Beyond price, there are a number of DIY solar energy pros and cons to consider before attempting to create your own solar panel system.
Here are a few of the major benefits of DIY solar:
If you’re ready to learn more about how a certified installer can help you build a solar system, follow the links below.
While there are notable perks to the DIY solar approach, there are also some drawbacks worth noting:
The bottom line: Installing your own residential solar system can yield some notable advantages, including cost savings, but that doesn’t always mean it’s the wisest option. Due to the safety hazards, limited product options and lack of real solar expertise, many homeowners will conclude that DIY solar system installation just isn’t worth it.
So after weighing the pros and cons of DIY solar, what are the next steps? One thing to keep in mind is that many solar installers offer no-obligation estimates. Even if you’re leaning toward a DIY solar system, there’s no harm in considering your options and learning a bit more about the solar installation process.
And if you do decide to go with DIY solar panels, one important step is to check local zoning ordinances to be certain you can legally install your own system. From there, start researching different solar panels, batteries and inverters, while also ensuring you have the right baseline knowledge regarding electrical work.
If you’re ready to learn more about how a certified installer can help you build a solar system, follow the links below.