6 Mistakes DIY Solar Installers Make

Going DIY with your solar may seem like the smart choice. After all, you keep thinking of all the money you’ll save and how you won’t have to worry about someone else getting it done when you want it done. But it does come with many challenges, and if you don’t take the proper steps, you may find yourself unable to overcome them. Because of this, we’re going to look at six common mistakes people make when they try to DIY their installation project, and how you can avoid making them when you’re ready to install your own panels.

1. Thinking Permit Offices are Evil

While you may be tempted to start judging permit offices as evil and thinking you shouldn’t have to go through the hassle of getting a permit, they’re actually there to help you. Not only will they make sure you get the job done correctly and help you avoid injuring yourself, but they’re also necessary if you want to get any insurance. If you don’t go through these proper steps, your solar system may not turn on at all, which means you’ll have done all of that for nothing. Just taking the appropriate steps will means a sound mind and a working system.

2. Not Getting the Necessary Supplies

Solar panel installers have all the necessary, quality tools they need, and they know exactly what they need them for. On the other hand, if you haven’t done the full, necessary research, you may find yourself with a job stopped still because you have to run out last minute and find the appropriate tool. Make sure ou not only have every single tool you need but that you also have the appropriate racking and mounting system and the tools that are needed to place those in, as well.

3. Not Preparing the Job Site for the Worst

Another thing a professional installer knows is how to properly prepare a job site for the installation of solar panels. Things you might not have even considered may go wrong, they’re way ahead of you. Make sure you prepare for every single bad situation. Things like supplies delivered in the wrong order, horrible weather with exposed materials, thieves who want your expensive materials, a truck driving over the septic tank. So many things could go wrong, so make sure you’re ready and have a plan in place for the worst of situations.

4. Not Buying Quality Materials

If you’re doing a DIY installation, there’s a good chance it’s because you’re trying to save money on the installation costs. Which means you’re probably also tempted to buy cheap materials and start DIY’ing more parts of the project. One of the biggest mistakes a DIY installer makes is DIY’ing their racking system. Not only could you end up not getting your permit, but you could also end up having a solar panel system flying off the roof even if you do manage to get it approved.

5. Frankenstein Solar System

Another thing people try to save on is their solar components, resulting in a Frankenstein solar system where a variety of different components are all shoved together. You need to make sure you have the appropriate components for your system to not only make sure it works but to also make sure it doesn’t injure you or your home.

6. Inappropriate Safety Measures

You need to keep yourself safe on the job site so you don’t risk a trip to the emergency room, which will result in all that saved money going right towards a medical bill. Wear goggles, tight clothing, and especially wear a harness.

Want more tips to having a solar lifestyle? Check out the HahaSmart blog!

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