DIY Solar Power: Solar Panel Installation
DIY Solar Power
The biggest question for most people who are installing their own solar panels for their DIY solar power project is: Do I have to go on the roof of my home? The simple answer is no, but you should consider the benefits of using an existing structure for both photovoltaic panels and solar water panel installations.
Slope, Pitch & Height Considerations
First, a south-facing slope with a slope at an angle of 30 degrees is needed for maximum performance of your solar panels, and the area that you are installing solar panels in should be free from any shade (trees, other structures, etc) during all times of the day.
For solar water heater applications, having some above-ground height is recommended because you can use gravity to feed the solar-warmed water back to a holding tank (which is typically located inside the roof cavity, but may be installed outside your roof with proper return piping and insulation).
Since most hot water tanks are usually situated on a main level of your home, the installation of an under-roof tank will allow a shorter distance for heated water to travel to the holding tank, resulting in less piping materials and insulation needed on the return piping itself.
Animals: KEEP OUT
Another important consideration is that roof mounted solar panels will also be free from animals and most pests that can otherwise damage the surface of solar panels. Make sure that you installation area is free from overhanging tree branches to avoid nesting birds, since bird dropping can severely damage solar collector surfaces which will reduce the solar panel’s efficiency dramatically.
For a roof installation, choose an area on your roof that can be accessed easily from the ground – think about easy access for routine maintenance and cleaning when necessary. You will not need to perform cleaning or maintenance very often, because the one of the great aspects of solar panel installation is that there are very few working parts, so there is less that can go wrong.
2 Main Types of Solar Panel Installation: Straight Solar Panels vs. Photovoltaic Solar Panels
Many people who are doing their own DIY solar power projects are not familiar with the two main types of solar panel installation and what is required for each type.
For straight panels (flat panel systems) you will need much less space than Photovoltaic cells. Straight panels only provide heated water – which can be a substantial contribution to saving money on your household utility bill.
Although photovoltaic cells require more space, most homes will have enough roof space to meet the requirements for generating power for the entire house. Visually, solar panel installations will not negatively affect your neighbor’s view. Because of their lightweight, solar panels installation usually does NOT require structural changes to your roof for load-bearing purposes.
If you are concerned about a flat roof installation, just construct a simple frame that will support and hold the panels at the required angle. In this case, you will need to provide insulation behind the panels to keep warmth in and cold out of the system.
Eco-Friendly, DIY Solar Power Is Easy On The Wallet
If you are considering adding solar panels to the design of your new home, then there is very little additional cost involved and the return in your investment for the installation will be paid back in about one year on average. When you consider the savings and eco-friendly power source that you will be able to utilize for many years, solar panel installation just makes good sense.
We recommend that a professional installer be consulted, or that you get some guidance from one of the good DIY Solar Power Project & Installation Guides that you can find on this website. Your investment in time, effort and materials expense should be considered carefully. Get the most out of your DIY solar power project – don’t waste time and money if you don’t have good plans that include proper installation of your system.
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