How to install solar panels yourself

Although our online solar panel quote website is based on figures for supplying and fitting solar panels, we do get the occasional request for supply only with homeowners keen to install their own solar panel system and save a bit of money into the bargain.

However, I'd urge anyone not completely familiar with the process to think very carefully before fitting your own solar panel system.

How are you with heights?
The majority of solar panel installations take place on the roof so you've got to feel comfortable with working up there - we're not talking about a ladder to the guttering - we're talking about walking and moving around on the roof itself.

Then there's the plumbing / wiring connections. Not only have they got to be secure (you don't want to be going back up again), but you're also going to have to make sure that the roof itself is still weatherproof where pipes or wires enter the loft space.

Some solar panels can be quite weighty so you'll need to think about how you're going to get the panels up onto the roof in the first place.

Just a few points to consider before you go ahead as a price for supply and fit might be better value that you first imagined.

Visit Solar Panel Quoter and get your free online quote today.

photo credit: foxtongue

What's hogging the energy in your house?

Very often, one of the first things you should do to prepare your home for a renewable energy installation like solar panels is work out exactly how much power you're using, and if you're thinking of using renewable energy to replace your existing energy supply, then you'll want to slim down your energy usage as much as possible so that you only pay for an installation that meets your requirements.

It's not always an easy task finding out what's 'hogging' the power in your home though - there are obvious things like making sure your home is well insulated - loft and cavity wall insulation, double glazing and energy efficient appliances etc can all play a big part.

I'm indebted to Cool Planet's Nate Law for posting this recent guide to what to look out for around your home. The site may be american and references to appliances are obviously to american lifestyle kitchen / laundry appliances but much of the information is still relevant and it's an excellent place to start.

For example, did you know even small items like digital photo frames. mobile phone charges and laptop power supplies left plugged in - even when unconnected from the device - draw power?

Thanks Nate.

photo credit: noahg

DIY Solar Panel fitters in California could lead the way

A popular home store chain in California has begun selling individual solar panels for do-it-yourself fitting.

The story from the Pocono Record goes on to say "The panels cost about $900 apiece, and individually they won't have a huge impact. Manufacturer Akeena Solar Inc. says each one generates about 175 watts, enough power to run a flat-screen television. But the incremental easing of the home electric bill just might prompt buyers to come back for more panels, company CEO Barry Cinnamon predicts. And the cumulative effect of many home panels, installed one by one by people who could not afford a full-bore professional installation, could be substantial over time".

The USA's population is just 5% of the world's, yet amazingly, the USA consumes nearly 25% of the world's energy.

Will we see something similar happening in the UK? Will you be able to pop down to your local supermarket, pick up a few groceries and Oh, I'll take a solar panel too?

We're not so sure that's an immediate future thing but who knows? At present, whilst it is possible to buy and install your own solar panels, the planning and legislative paperwork to go through to claim those government subsidies on installation etc not to mention if you're hooking a photovoltaic system up to the mains will require an electricity company engineer or a CORGI registered plumber for the hot water system, means that most UK homeowners are more than happy to get a quote that includes the fitting and installation.

If you've started the New Year thinking about the difference installing solar panels to your home's energy bills could make, then start now by getting up to three competitive quotes from approved installers via Solar Panel Quoter.co.uk - It's a completely free online service - no Salesman will call - but you could save pounds, just on the installation.

photo credit: vauvau