subject: New Solar Energy Panels May Be An Ideal Home Investment [print this page] Solar energy panel installation requires some skills, however the requirements may not be as high as many people assume. Many persons who are reasonably skilled at general projects may do well overall installing their own solar panels. Completely going off the grid is a relatively expensive project though the benefits over the long term are undeniable and self installation can help make at least part of that dream come true.
There are various ways to approach the self installation of solar panels. A person who is very skilled might choose to design their own system and install it from the ground up, ordering their parts as they choose. A person with medium level skills might choose a solar energy kit with all the parts included. This can be the best option for those who are unsure about the exact parts needed for the job.
Advanced planning is necessary when considering a solar installation project. Part of the installation process will involve working with electrical components. This may well be within the skills of some craftsmen but if it is not then a qualified electrician might be called in to be sure the wiring is up to code and safe for use. This perhaps is the one aspect of the installation project where a homeowner might be wise to call in a professional at least after the wiring is ready to go.
An inverter is an essential part of the package in solar units intended to produce power for the home. If the homeowner has purchased a very small package the inverters will usually not handle new panels. More expensive models of inverters are capable of accepting additional panels. There are other considerations as well with the installation of solar panels and both have to do with the placement of the panels on the roof.
The first point is that to be secure these panels must be attached to a joist or a rafter. A strong wind might blow away improperly secured panels. The rafters and joists provide the most secure anchorage possible. Using a chalk line will help keep the panels properly lined up during installation.
While how securely the solar panels are attached is important, where they are attached is also important. Each moment that a panel can collect sunlight is that much more energy that can be stored and used for your home. That means that any obstructions should be removed such as trees between the panels and the sun. In the case of buildings, which might shade the panel for part of the day, moving them is usually not an option. The homeowner should check the other side of the roof for a sunnier place if shaded panels might be a problem.
Persons within many countries may find local and national government initiatives to assist with the cost of installing solar panels in a home. Some places may offer tax rebates while others offer long term loan programs. However, renewable energy is not just a good idea for the homeowner but often encouraged by the governments.
While solar energy panel installation is not for everyone it can provide just enough economic edge for the budget minded family with a handyman to finally be able to go solar. While installation costs do not make up the complete cost of solar collection panels saving on that cost might leave room for more square feet of energy.
