DIY: Install Solar Panels

Install your own solar panels.

Installing a solar panel system is a great way to harness the power of the sun. Solar power not only lowers or eliminates your energy bills, it can increase the value of your home. The backbone of a solar energy system starts with the solar panels. The solar panels that are installed on your roof have the ability to convert electrons into usable energy. With a little bit of skill and balance, you can install solar panels on your roof yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder
• Safety glasses
• Solar panels
• Solar panel mounting kit
• Stud finder
• Laser line level
• Drill with drill bits
• Tape measure
• Wrench
• Solar panel connection wires

Instructions

1. Find and select the best location for the installation of your panels by observing the position of the sun around noon. The sunny and most optimal location is typically the south side of your roof. You want to ensure that your panels' line of sight to the sun is unobstructed. If the south side is not possible, then look first to the west and then east. You never want to mount your panels on the north side, which typically does not get that much sun during the day.

2. Mount your solar panel mounting brackets to the roof. This is done by securing the brackets to the top of the rafters. To find the location of the rafters, use your stud finder. Make sure to pre-drill the screw holes with your drill. Once you install the first mount, install the second mount using a laser line level and the tape measure. This will ensure that your panels are level and straight.

3. Secure the solar panels to the mounts. Make sure to follow the instructions provided by your solar panel manufacturer. Typically mounts are locked in place with a wrench and you simply tighten the bolts included in the mounting kit.

4. Connect the solar panel cables to your inverter box. The inverter is the junction between your solar panels and your main grid connect system. The inverter converts the DC power generated by your solar panels into AC power that is used by your home electrical needs.

References

• DIY Solar Panel Installation