How To Build Up A Solar System?

TL;DR:

Can you build a solar system yourself? Yes, with the right materials, some planning, and some DIY skills, you can pull it off. You will require panels, an inverter, a charge controller, and some wiring. By correctly sizing your system and avoiding some common mistakes, you can save money and power your home with clean energy.

Solar power is one of the most environmentally friendly and cost-effective power sources nowadays. With this, you can get rid of outrageous utility bills and enjoy free, sun-generated energy for years to come. But have you ever thought about installing your own solar power system at home? The good news is that you can. With the right knowledge and solar supplies, you can build a DIY solar system.

In this article, we will guide you on how to install a solar system from scratch. From supplies you need to how you can efficiently plan this installation, we will take you through every step of the process.

By the end of this article, you will be able to build your own, fully functional solar system kit.

Is it possible to build a solar system at home?

The short answer is “yes”. A lot of people are now choosing to fit their own DIY solar panels instead of contracting experts, a trend that is emerging and saving money.

However, you will need to understand the basics to do it yourself. You will need to read and follow instructions, know how to use tools, and take precautions. Everything you know about electricity, how to hook up wires, and test the voltage, can go a long way during the installation process.

For smaller systems, like lighting a shed or charging camp equipment, the process is simple. Larger systems, like a whole-house solar system, require more planning and powerful equipment. In any case, it can be a pleasant and satisfying project to set up a solar power system on your own.

The U.S. Department of Energy says that there are over 3.6 million homes in the US that consume solar energy, and this number is increasing rapidly.

What do you need to get started?

"Which solar supplies do I need?" That's probably the most important question you can ask yourself. Having the right equipment is the backbone of your DIY solar installation project. Each equipment is crucial and it can contribute to the smooth running of the system.

Here's what you'll need:

A solar system is modular in nature, allowing you to update it according to your power needs. If you are preparing a hybrid system (that takes some power from the grid, and some part from the sun), you can skip the batteries and use the solar system while the sun is out. 

Just like any DIY project, a solar system gives you endless customization options.

Building a solar system from scratch (Step by Step)

 

Your DIY solar system project can be further simplified if you follow these steps the right way.

1. Know your power consumption

Before buying anything, you must know how much power you use every day. Check your electricity bill or add up the watts of the appliances you want to run.

Example:

● A fan uses 60W × 10 hours = 600Wh

● A fridge uses 150W × 10 hours = 1500Wh

● A few lights use 10W × 5 hours = 50Wh

Total = 2150Wh (2.1 kWh) per day.

2. Size your solar system components

Once you understand your power requirements, you will need to size your panels, inverter and batteries.

● Solar panels: Assume your daily consumption and divide it by the number of hours when the sun is the most active. Consider 5 kWh of daily use and 5 hours of sunlight on average. This means you would require solar panels of about 1 kW to cover the energy needs.
 

● Inverter: Select an inverter of the same size or a bit larger than your peak load. Example: A 3.5kW inverter will be required when you are running 3000W appliances.

● Batteries (optional): If you are looking to go completely off-grid, you will need batteries to store the power that your panels create throughout the day. Calculate the battery capacity to be on the safe side. If your required wattage is 2000Wh, then choose a battery of at least 2500Wh or more.

3. Installing the panels

Find a sunny place like your roof, backyard, or even a balcony. Use mounting racks to tilt the mount panels at an appropriate inclination (approximately 30-45° depending on your location). Panels that are directly facing the sun will produce maximum power.

4. Connecting the inverter and charge controller

Now it's time to connect things together:

1. Connect solar panels to the charge controller.

2. Connect the charge controller to the battery (if you are using one).

3. Connect the battery to the inverter.

4. Lastly, connect the home appliances to the inverter.

Always remember safety practices: switch off the electricity when doing wiring, use gloves, and recheck connections.

5. Monitor and maintain

Once your DIY solar system is running, keep an eye on it. Clean the panels every few weeks, check wires, and ensure the inverter is not overheating. Modern inverters now come with smart apps so you can monitor your solar system's performance on your phone.

Researchers of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) discovered that dirty solar panels may lose as much as 25% of efficiency without regular cleaning.

Common mistakes to avoid during DIY installation

While the process may seem straightforward, any DIY solar installation comes with its own set of challenges and mistakes that can lead to reduced system efficiency or even safety concerns. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

● Wrong sizing: This is one of the major mistakes rookies make. You can also use a solar panel calculator online to measure the number of solar panels required for your needs.

● Poor roof angle: Panels must face the sun directly.

● Bad wiring: Loose connections can waste power or result in a short circuit.

● Ignoring local rules: Some cities require permits for solar panels.

FAQs

How difficult is DIY solar?

It's not too hard if you follow the instructions. You can build a small solar system kit in a weekend. Large systems may need more time and safety checks.

What size inverter is needed for a solar panel?

It depends on your wattage requirements. For small use (like lights and fans), a 1000W inverter is fine. For full homes, 3000–5000W is more suitable.

Is it possible to mount solar panels on a metal roof?

Yes. They can be mounted on metal roofs with the help of special clamps.

Final words

Installing a solar power system is not as difficult as most people have thought. With the right approach and planning, you can build your own solar system kit. And if you don't find the required DIY skills in yourself, then you can buy ready-made solar kits. Whichever option you choose, the trick is to understand your power requirements, properly size solar supplies and avoid the most common mistakes.

By choosing to go solar, you will save money, reduce utility bills, and have clean energy to enjoy over the years.