Introduction
Have you ever considered that there are multiple reasons why homeowners throughout Las Vegas will try to DIY solar panel installation, yet call in a fix for expensive errors? Using solar energy is one of the smartest investments you can make for your home, saving you each month on your electric bill and increasing your property's value! DIY projects are often sought after in an effort to save money. Solar panel installation, however, is hardly a weekend project. Solar panel installation requires precision, electrical knowledge, an understanding of building codes, and familiarity with roofing systems. A small mistake can result in your energy efficiency being undermined, damage your roof, or cause significant electrical hazards. In this blog, we will review the most frequent mistakes made by homeowners attempting DIY solar panel installation, while a professional solar panel installation company in Las Vegas will install your system safely and optimize energy efficiency.
Mistake 1: Not Having Enough Panels or Too Many Panels
One of the common errors homeowners make is either underestimating the number of panels needed or overestimating. Some property owners purchase and install the minimum number of panels, believing that it will save them money, only to discover that their solar panel system is not producing enough electricity to meet their household energy requirements. Some property owners buy and install too many panels, which is a waste of money. Professionals carefully calculate your energy usage according to previous utility bills, the size of the home, and future energy needs. They also factor in Las Vegas's abundant sunshine as well as seasonal changes over time. If your calculations are wrong, your solar system may not be efficient enough to justify the cost.
Mistake 2: Bad Placement of the Panels
Las Vegas has almost an entire year of sun; however, this does not mean that if you put the solar panels anywhere, you will be maximizing the potential energy produced. Many DIY installers do not think about roof pitch, angle, or even the occasional shade from trees or nearby buildings. Having solar panels installed at the wrong angle or direction is a waste of energy and doesn't serve the purpose of wanting to install a solar power system. Professionals use high-tech equipment and software to find the best placement of solar panels to ensure there is as much sun exposure year-round as possible. Finding the optimum angle will maximize energy and return on investment.
Mistake 3: Ruining the Roof in the Process
Many of the components for a solar installation require drilling and bolting to the roof without a full understanding. If not properly sealed, the holes may lead to leaks, water damage, or possibly damage to the roof structure. Once water damage is present, the damage can interfere with your ability to repair the roof, and the costs may exceed your savings from DIYing a solar installation. Professionals understand roofs and use mounting equipment that allows them to safely secure the panel to your roof, not your roof structure. They also have warranties and insurance if something were to happen.
Mistake 4: Wiring Problems
Installing solar is more than pulling a panel out of a box and putting it on the roof. Solar involves complicated electrical work that has the capacity to fail or possibly catch fire if the wire is of poor quality, loose, or not properly grounded. Qualified solar panel installers in Las Vegas know the complicated wiring necessary to properly connect solar systems to your residential electric grid. They are also versed in complying with local codes and utility company requirements, thereby avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring your solar power system will work properly for years to come.
Mistake 5: Not Getting Building Codes/Permits
Many DIY solar installers in Las Vegas do not consider the importance of permits and inspections. If you put up panels but don't have the required construction approvals, you could incur fines, delay getting your solar system up and running, or worse, have to take your system down. Using a professional installer means you won't have to worry about permits and inspections because the installation company will do all the work for you. They know your local building codes and the many regulatory requirements and homeowners association rules, so you can enjoy the process without having to worry from beginning to end.
Mistake 6: Thinking the Panels Are Maintenance-Free Over Time
Some homeowners install solar and think that once they put them in, the solar panels will be maintenance-free. Agreed, solar systems are one of the easier systems to maintain. However, dust, debris, and repairs for your system may impact how much energy the system reliably provides to your home over time. DIY installers typically do not have a long-range plan for maintenance, leaving the system ripe for underperformance. A professional should provide some education on long-range care of the system and will often provide maintenance work on behalf of the homeowner to care for the equipment to provide reliable energy for decades. In Las Vegas's desert climate, it can be even more important to do regular maintenance checks and upgrades to prevent less performance.
Mistake 7: Buying the Wrong Equipment
Many DIY solar systems have to do with buying the cheaper panels and equipment found on websites to save money. All equipment and materials are not always compatible, and sometimes, the cheaper the equipment, the more it will degrade and provide little energy output. Licensed professionals suggest high-quality, compatible equipment with warranties included. They design systems to function within your home and give consistent results over the long haul.
Mistake 8: Underestimating the Risks
There are safety risks when you are working on rooftop solar panels in Las Vegas sun. Many DIYers don't learn about the risks that come with climbing ladders, supporting heavy panels, or dealing with electrical work. Falls and other accidents happen to inexperienced installers all the time. Professionals are trained to work using the proper safety equipment and following strict safety practices. They are also insured for accidents and injuries, so you are not liable if anyone gets hurt on your property during the work.
Mistake 9: Not Getting a Professional Inspection
Even if you do a decent job on a DIY installation, not having a professional inspect your work can cost you money. Minor mistakes, like improper wiring or low-quality mounts, may not show major issues right away but can lead to larger, dangerous malfunctions later on. When a professional inspects a solar installation, it is guaranteed to meet all of the efficiency, safety, and installation standards. A professional inspection is also needed if you want to qualify for tax or energy rebates that require a certified installation.
Why Professionals Do It Better
While paying a professional to do the installation of your solar panels may seem unappealing to save money, professionals provide unmatched value since they have the experience and warranties that will provide you with peace of mind. A professional will design your system to maximize efficiency, ensure safety, and meet local code requirements. Most importantly, they will ensure that the homeowner will get credit for tax credits and rebates, which may not apply if you do the installation yourself. One of the advantages of hiring professionals is long-lasting support, as they will provide support from maintenance to upgrades to the system for the long term. In a sun-soaked city like Las Vegas, you can even rest comfortably knowing that you will be capturing every possible ray of solar energy without the risks of being an amateur.
Why Roofing Solar Knowledge is Important
The installation of the solar system is directly related to the health of your entire roof, which is another reason many homeowners look for a company that has a background in roofing, versus a traditional solar operating company that may hire an unknown third-party company to install the solar panels for them. Roofing professionals will know how to install the solar panels in a way that doesn't damage your shingles, underlayment, and/or structural integrity of the roof. Thus, with solar installers and roofing installers, the entire process of installation is seamless, as both protect the entire energy source and home.
Final Thoughts
You may find DIY solar installation enticing to save money, but the cons of DIY may outweigh the money saved. It doesn't just stop at improper placements on your roof, electrocutions, damaging your roof, or possible code violations. The potential complications are limitless. Everything that professionals bring to each job is knowledge, experience, and efficiency. Without them, you will not pay off your investment to the fullest, nor for years to come. If you are serious about producing energy from solar installation in Las Vegas, you will rely on confident, certified professionals who can provide technical knowledge of roofing and solar technology. Not only will this allow you to benefit from energy savings, but you will also be protecting your home, your safety, and your future.
About Fortitude Roofing
Fortitude Roofing is a roofing company in Las Vegas that specializes in solar installation. With years of roofing experience, Fortitude Roofing expedites the solar process beyond the average by combining roofing knowledge with solar technology knowledge, resulting in seamless, long-term returns. Whether you are a homeowner looking to become sustainable or a business owner looking to reduce costs on utilities, we have the experience to set you in the right direction. We handle everything from design to permits, to installation, and maintenance. Contact us today to schedule a roofing inspection or request a solar quote.
