Homeownership comes with various responsibilities; some tasks require labor, such as maintenance, while other tasks involve finances like paying the mortgage, taxes, and utility bills. Similar to other expenses, energy costs continue to rise, leaving homeowners to explore different options. Therefore, some owners are electing to try solar panel kits, which are a flexible, beneficial home upgrade and often a DIY solution. In this article, we will cover the benefits, costs, and installation process of putting a solar panel kit on your home.

What is a Solar Panel Kit?

A solar panel kit is a set of pieces that’s assembled on the roof of a residential property that converts sunlight into electricity. Below are the parts you will receive to assemble your solar panel kit:

  • Solar Panels: The number of Solar panels that come in the kit varies depending on the owner’s overall consumption and their location. On average, a typical system needs 15-20 panels. However, if it’s a smaller house off-the-grid that gets a substantial amount of sunlight only requires 4-6 panels.
  • Inverter: The solar inverter is the technology utilized to convert “direct current” into electricity. It’s an important aspect of the solar panel kit; without the inverter, your system wouldn’t function.
  • Mounting Hardware: The pieces, such as bolts and screws, used to place your solar panel kit on the roof in a safe manner.
  • Wiring: In order to complete the solar panel kit, you need the special outdoor wiring to protect your system from the elements, such as rain, with high voltage capability. The type of wiring used on solar panels, called PV also known as “Photovoltaic wire”.
  • Battery Storage (Optional): Some solar panel systems have an electric generator aspect that collects and stores the electricity. Which can be utilized at a later date, especially on days with no sunlight.

Benefits of Using a Solar Panel Kit

  1. More reasonable prices and upfront costs compared to full-service installation. For the most part, installing solar panels is a long-term investment. Since you’re producing your own energy, at a point, the monthly cost of electricity would’ve exceeded the money spent on installing your kit. Therefore, it saves homeowners a substantial amount of money in the long run. Additionally, since the installation process is straightforward, you can save money by doing it yourself.
  2. Installing a solar panel kit on your house has a positive impact on the environment. Using the traditional route of providing electricity to your home releases greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane. Furthermore, it’s often powered by fossil fuels, which can lead to climate change. Therefore, using a solar panel kit not only saves money but also saves the environment.
  3. Potential for Federal and State incentives. Due to a low to no impact on the environment, the government adds incentives for homeowners to install solar panels. These incentives can include tax credits, rebates, and tax exemptions. Therefore, it’s a team effort by both homeowners and the government to switch over to sustainable energy that doesn’t negatively impact our environment and the ozone layer.

How Much Do Solar Panel Kits Cost?

The overall price to purchase and install the solar panel kit depends on a few factors. The size of the kit matters, such as the number of panels and the necessary “kilowatts” to run the system. Other factors to consider: the price to hire help to install it compared to doing it yourself. It’s also important to see if your local township or city charges for solar installation permits and inspections.

Here is a breakdown of average prices by solar panel kit size: 

  • Small kit (1-2 Kilowatts): $2,000-$5,000 for the kit and parts. The estimate on cost does not include installation or any other relevant expenses.
  • Medium Solar Panel Kit (2-5 Kilowatts): Usually consisting of 5 to 10 solar panels with a price range of $5,000-$10,000.
  • Large Kit (6+ kW): $10,000-$15,000, which is typically installed to power an entire home, a business, or off-the-grid setups that require a significant amount of energy.

Step-by-Step: Installing Solar Panels on Your Home

Although installing a solar panel yourself seems overwhelming, following these basic steps can ensure a proper setup at a reasonable price.

  1. Evaluate your roof. Most roofs already have a pitch, so that water can properly drain rather than settling on the roof. Furthermore, the sun always at an angle because the Earth’s axis is tilted. Just ensure your roof can hold the weight of the panels.
  2. Figure out the panel size required to fit your power needs. Determine your energy needs to figure out if you need a small, medium, or large kit. Speak with a professional to make the right move when purchasing the kit.
  3. If necessary, speak with your local municipality to determine if you need to pull permits to complete the solar panel installation. These permits can include: a building permit, a zoning permit, and an electrical permit. If you don’t approach the installation with proper permits, code enforcers can submit a stop-work order, along with issuing substantial fines.
  4. Installing the mounting system. Ensure you have all the necessary tools to install the panel system. Follow the instructions to put the kit together. Be mindful of putting screws into your roof; use the right material to avoid causing serious problems like a leaky roof.
  5. Install and connect panels. You need to use durable “Photovoltaic wire” which are weatherproof. Therefore, the special wires protect against the elements of the rain and even the hot sun.
  6. Connect the inverter. The inverter system converts the direct current into electricity.
  7. Inspections and testing of the system. Once the solar panel kit is installed, it’ll be time to call the utility company to tie the system into the power grid. Additionally, even though the chances are slim, a solar panel system can cause a fire, make sure the system’s connected properly to minimize the chances.

Is a Solar Kit Right for You?

Whether you’re looking to save money on energy costs in the future or protect the environment, a solar panel system can be perfect for your home. Ensure you have a plan to install, whether you’re handy or hiring professional assistance. A residential solar panel installation can cost around $15,000-$30,000. However, keep in mind government incentives and tax credits to install a solar panel system, so the price to set up a solar panel kit can be much less.

In addition to the installation, ensure your roof gets enough sun exposure. Furthermore, this can include trimming tree branches that can limit the amount of sun your house receives. Another way to determine if your home gets enough sunlight. Go outside multiple days between the times 10 am and 4 pm to ensure no buildings or trees are preventing steady sunlight. The two factors to determine if a solar panel is right for you; the overall costs and whether your home is suitable for the panels.

Final Thoughts on Solar Panels

A solar panel kit is a great way to save money while saving the environment. It’s incredible to have a sense of freedom and the ability to be self-sufficient while living off the grid. Over the years, solar panels have continued to gain popularity, which makes the overall cost more reasonable. In addition, the government provides financial incentives to lower the cost of solar panels.

These kits installed as a DIY project or by hiring a professional. Just ensure you’re utilizing the right material and pulling necessary permits to limit obstacles. Lastly, since there are many factors to consider when installing a system, weigh out each aspect and the overall cost. Determine what goes into a solar panel system before purchasing the kit. Establish a plan and don’t hesitate to ask for help with the installation process.