The most common reason people want to install a rooftop solar power system by themselves is to save money.

For example, someone sees a deal for a surplus batch of solar panels and decides to grab them at a discount. They soon learn that there is more to a solar power system that just the panels. In fact, the panels could have problems such as non-compliant connectors or have been mishandled. They could be even be substandard.

The choice of inverter is even more important than the panels because the inverter is the nerve center of the system, affecting performance and monitoring capability. The choice must be made between brands and between kinds of inverter ie central inverters, micro inverters and central inverters with Optimizers. There are cost and performance differences as well as different on-line monitoring software.

System design is important. A proper balance between panels and equipment can optimize your solar electricity production and save wasted expense. Many installers have by experience and necessity chosen system components that work well together while still offering choice to the buyer.

Safety is important. You are playing with fire here and a licensed electrician who specializes in solar follows the electrical code to keep your family safe. Most ordinary electricians are not familiar with recent updates to the solar section of the electrical code.

Proper permit approvals are important. For example, a building permit left unclosed can interfere with the sale of a house.

Handyman skills: To even consider self-installation as a project, its clear that the buyer must have above average handyman skills.

I watched some DIY videos on You Tube and here’s what I noticed:

In the very first video the presenter walked on an array of solar panels to show how sturdy they are. This is an awful thing to do as research shows all solar panels develop micro cracks from this kind of abuse. In a few years these panels could fail or become less productive. Also, the presenter was promoting a wholesale kit so was definitely not unbiased.

The next video that came up was a more authentic amateur type and he admitted to hiring both a roofer and an electrician to get the job done. He recognized that its not a job for an amateur. I have to wonder whether at the end of the day he saved any money. Why not simply hire a solar pro in the first place and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing everything is being managed for best productivity and for your family’s safety?

Most, if not all the videos were American. All of the systems were on bungalows with low slope roofs that could be walked on. In Canada, bungalows are few as heating is more efficient in homes with 2 storeys or more. Roofs tend to be steep to shed snow.

Professional installers have Fall Protection Training and must use safety harnesses. I didn’t see any DIY men tying off.

Due Diligence: Instead of spending countless hours learning by trial and error, we recommend doing your homework to select a qualified professional solar installer like Terawatt Solar who is making a reasonable mark-up for their service and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from relying on them for a proper system design, attractive layout, accurate documentation, proper approvals, through to final commissioning and a warranty that your home insurer will accept.