Yes, you can fit solar panels to your own home, but it is a complex and potentially dangerous process that requires some electrical wiring experience and professional assistance. According to the Energy Sage Blog, there are six steps to install solar panels at home:
Design and size your system based on energy needs
Purchase your solar equipment and components (solar panels, batteries, inverters, racking, etc.)
Install the racking or mounts for the panels on a roof or on the ground
Install your equipment
Connect to your main electrical board
Get approval from your utility company and local authorities
Installing solar panels yourself can also pose several other significant dangers, such as:
Roof damage or leak risk. Drilling holes through your roof can cause structural damage, water leakage or mold problems if not done properly or sealed correctly.
Physical risk. Working on a roof or at heights can expose you to the risk of slips, trips and falls, especially in wet or windy conditions. You also need to handle heavy and bulky equipment and work with electricity, which can cause injuries or electrocution.
Unable to claim certain incentives for solar. Some states offer tax rebates or other incentives for homeowners who install solar panels, but they may require a certified company to do the installation for you. If you install solar panels yourself, you may miss out on these benefits.
No assistance with defects or warranty claims. If you buy solar equipment and components yourself, you may not have access to the manufacturer’s warranty or customer service. If something goes wrong with your system or you need to replace a faulty part, you may have to pay out of pocket or deal
with the hassle yourself.
Therefore, it is advisable to hire a professional solar installer who can ensure a safe and efficient installation of your solar system and help you with the paperwork, permits and incentives.
You can get professional advice and compare quotes from different solar panel installers in Essex via SolarQuote www.essexsolarpanelinstallers.co.uk