Green Savvy – The environment, energy efficiency, solar power, & green living » Installing A Solar Power System In Your Home

Oct 12 2007

Installing A Solar Power System In Your Home

Published by Jennifer at 9:45 pm under Solar Power

A solar power system is the only way to truly lose your independence on local energy companies to provide you with the electricity your home needs. By installing solar panels in your home, and the generator needed to convert the sun’s rays into usable energy, you will never again have to worry about blackouts, or the rising cost of running a home.

A solar power system is very easy and inexpensive to install in your home. There are a great number of do it yourself kits available, or you can hire a contractor to come in and install the system for you. Whichever you choose, it’s clear that installing a solar power system is a great way to do your part to help keep earth green.

Self Installation

It is very possible to install your own solar power system, without the help of a contractor. There are many self installation kits available at your local home improvement store, that will walk you step by step through the process of installing your very own solar power system. Typically, you will need the help of a few friends, however; as the panels can be rather heavy. Trying to carry these panels up to the roof on your own isn’t really a good idea.

Before you begin your self installation of your solar power system, you need to make certain that you have all of the tools and equipment needed. Generally, just your basic handy-man tool kit will do, as long as you are installing the panels on the roof of your home. But, if you are planning to install the panels in a location away from your home, you may need to rent equipment to use to bury the wires. Also make certain that you have a safe place to house the generator for your solar power system.

Hired Installation

Of course, if you don’t feel comfortable installing your solar power system by yourself, you can always hire a contractor to do it for you. This can become rather expensive if you are not careful, so it is important that you get quotes from several contractors prior to choosing one. A contractor can range anywhere from fifty dollars an hour, to as much as three times that, to install a solar power system.

A reputable contractor should provide you with an all inclusive price quote for installing your solar power system. Some contractors, however, will try to offer you an “estimated” quote. Unless those contractors have a long history of satisfied customers, it’s never a good idea to go with one who won’t give you a firm price. Otherwise, you could find yourself spending thousands on unnecessary tools and services.

You can easily get a solar power system installed in your home, as long as you are careful about who you choose to install it for you, or if you install the solar power system yourself.