DIY solar panels: Should you install solar yourself?

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Whether you’re curious about DIY solar installation to cut costs or you just want the challenge of a new project, you can certainly try your hand at building a solar panel system. We just wouldn't recommend it for most people, especially if you lack electrical training.  

While smaller systems like off-grid RV or boat applications may be manageable, attempting to power your entire home without professional experience could pose significant dangers. Before you grab your toolbox, let’s weigh the pros and cons of DIY solar panels to help you decide if the risks are worth the reward.

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Key takeaways

  • Smaller off-grid systems for things like RVs, vans, and boats are best for DIY solar panels. We don't recommend installing larger solar panel systems without professional experience. 

  • Home DIY solar panel systems cost about 10% less than a professional solar installation. 

  • Solar panel warranties are often not applied to DIY solar installations. Without the proper warranties, DIY setups require much more maintenance than those installed by a certified installer. 

  • You may be unable to connect to the utility grid if you install solar panels yourself.

Solar incentives dramatically reduce the cost of going solar, but you’ll still have to invest $20,000+ upfront. While solar saves you money in the long run, that initial five-figure bill can give pause to anyone. If you find yourself looking for creative solutions to cut costs, you’re not alone. A do-it-yourself (DIY) solar panel installation may be tempting, but it could cost you more in the long run. 

DIY solar panels will only save you about 10% of your total bill. With the risk of improper installation, lack of access to high-quality equipment, and the extra time it takes to install the panels and complete the administrative work installers generally handle for you, that extra 10% becomes well worth it.

Home solar panel installations require electrical, roofing, and other skilled work. No amount of online research or DIY guides can replicate the decades-long experience of top solar companies. An amateur installation not only poses a higher risk for system errors, but it can also put you in harm’s way physically and potentially damage your home. 

A professional solar panel installation is qualified & protected

Solar companies are held to a certain standard that allows them to provide experienced insight and, ultimately, help you install a system that best fits your needs. Every state requires that installers are licensed and qualified to install solar. Additionally, independent certifications like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar PV Installation Professional Certification ensure that these professionals understand the installation process intimately.  

Solar panel warranties protect your investment, making them vital to maximizing your savings. DIY installations have no such guarantee. Many equipment manufacturers will only honor their warranties if a qualified installer has installed their equipment. Installers also commonly offer an additional guarantee to back up their work. 

Solar installers have access to high-quality equipment

Solar installers typically purchase equipment from wholesale distributors, gaining access to some of the best solar panel brands at a lower price. Many of these brands aren’t available for the general public, even at retail prices. Given a DIY solar installation will only save you 10%, the equipment alone can make hiring a solar installer worth it. 

A professional solar installation maintains a grid connection

Most homes with solar panel systems aren’t “off-grid,” even if they only use the electricity produced by their panels. You’ll want that utility connection on cloudy days when your panels don’t produce enough electricity to power your home fully, or if you plan on taking advantage of a net metering program. A DIY solar installation isn't the best solution if you intend to maintain a connection to utility energy. Your utility won't let you connect your system to the grid without a certified electrician's sign-off, and you’ll likely have a hard time finding an electrician to sign off on work they didn’t do themselves. 

Solar installers provide insight and submit applications for you

If the risks associated with a DIY home solar installation aren’t an issue for you, the amount of research and paperwork you’ll be left to deal with yourself might be. Between financial incentives, local permits, and utility connection, the administrative work that comes with a solar panel system is considerable and complicated. Generally, solar installers complete the permits, licensing, and applications necessary to get your solar energy system running.

DIY solar panel systems are best for constructing small off-grid systems to power a cabin, RV, boat, tiny home, etc. Solar panel kits are relatively inexpensive and include all the necessary components for a DIY solar installation, but you get what you pay for. DIY solar kits are of lesser quality than the equipment that solar installers can offer you.

Inherently off-grid and mobile applications like RVs, boats, and the increasingly popular tiny houses are all opportunities to explore do-it-yourself solar. At home, small projects with relatively low energy demands are also suitable for a DIY approach; a small home solar kit can easily power a barn, a tool shed, or outdoor lights.

DIY panels can be an excellent option for going off the grid and for small home applications, but it’s probably best to go with a professional installer to power your entire home.

Pros Of DIY Solar Panels
Cons Of DIY Solar Panels
It provides more energy independence for homeowners by not being tied to the electricity grid.Requires maintenance that an installer warranty would otherwise cover.
Effective in powering limited appliances, like in RVs or boats.Installation may be difficult and dangerous for someone without professional experience.
Allows homeowners to save roughly 10% on the overall cost of installation that would otherwise go towards labor.DIY installation may be illegal where you live according to local zoning laws.
It may end up costing more in the long run if improperly installed.
Limited access to high-quality equipment.

Solar panel warranties are incredibly valuable and a massive benefit of working with a certified solar installer. Equipment and performance warranties provide support and coverage in the unlikely event of an issue. 

Those warranties don't come with a DIY solar power system, so you'll be on the hook for all upkeep, maintenance, and repairs for your solar system. You should be fine for the most part if you keep your panels clear of debris, but it could also cost you more if something goes wrong.

Read more about general solar panel system maintenance

If you're wavering between a DIY solar system and hiring a solar installer, receiving professional installation quotes may help you decide. Register on the EnergySage Marketplace to receive custom quotes from vetted installers in your area today. Connect with our unbiased team of Energy Advisors to better understand your options and go solar with confidence.

Find out what solar panels cost in your area in 2024
Please enter a five-digit zip code.
  • 100% free to use, 100% online
  • Access the lowest prices from installers near you
  • Unbiased Energy Advisors ready to help
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