You want the benefit of solar, you want to reduce your bills by up to 70% and save the planet along the way. Installing your panels yourself makes sense right? Saving yourself money on installation will make the return on your solar investment even better.
In fact, it can be more expensive and it can be dangerous. Just like repairing your gas boiler or wiring in a cooker, solar installation should only be completed by experienced professionals, with the expertise, qualifications and certifications to ensure your installation is high quality, safe and meets UK standards.
Can You Install Solar Panels Yourself?
Yes, and while there are no regulations in place to stop you doing so, ideally you wouldn’t want to. UK safety standards require your solar panels to be installed by a qualified solar installater with MCS certification in order to benefit from the Smart Export Guarantee and connect your solar PV system to the grid.
The dangers of self-installation are higher too, 17% of home accidents are caused by people doing DIY projects. Carrying a solar panel up a ladder without experience and training is high risk itself, without the added risk of electrical issues and working at heights.
Challenges to Consider
Technical Complexity
Solar panel installation isn’t as simple as mounting some panels on your roof. It requires advanced knowledge of electrical systems, wiring, solar inverters and battery storage. Mistakes are not only dangerous but can be costly.
Permits and Regulations
At SolarTherm UK, we handle all the paperwork for you, ensuring you have your DNO approval, MCS certification and EPVS verification. We also ensure your solar PV system meets UK standards and is of high quality and efficiency. If you are self-installing you will need to navigate this yourself or risk costly delays or future removals.
Warranty and Insurance
Most manufacturer warranties require the solar PV system to be installed be certified installers. Insurance companies may also refuse to cover you or charge higher premiums for a self-installed solar system.
Time and Tools
Installing solar requires time, effort and specialised tools. If you don’t use the correct tools your installation may be substandard and not fulfilling its maximum efficiency. Specialised tools can be expensive, especially as they are used once, adding to the costs of self-installation.
Final Thoughts
While DIY solar panel installation can possibly save you money upfront, it comes with risks. Consider your skills, resources and the size of your project carefully and weigh it up with the simplicity, stress-free installation of an experienced installer like SolarTherm UK.
At SolarTherm UK, we’re here to provide expert advice and professional installations that ensure safety, efficiency and maximum savings. The little money you could save by DIY-ing may not be worth it long-term. Solar is more affordable than every before.
Want to Know More About Going Solar?
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free bespoke quote and design, tailored for your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is possible to physically install solar panels yourself, but a complete solar PV system involves electrical work, working at height, building regulations and grid connection requirements. For most homeowners, professional installation is the safer and more practical option.
It can appear cheaper because you avoid professional installation costs, but the savings may be reduced by specialist tools, equipment, scaffolding and the potential costs of correcting mistakes. A poorly installed system can also affect efficiency, warranties and insurance.
To receive SEG payments, your solar PV system needs to meet the relevant eligibility and certification requirements. Using an MCS-certified installer can make the certification and export process much simpler.
It can. Some solar panel, inverter and battery manufacturers require equipment to be installed by appropriately qualified or certified installers for certain warranty provisions to apply. Always check the manufacturer’s specific terms before installing a system yourself.
There are significant risks, including working at height, handling heavy panels and working with electrical equipment that can generate live DC electricity in daylight. Professional installers have the training, equipment and procedures needed to carry out the work safely.
For most homeowners, yes. Professional installation provides greater peace of mind that the system is correctly designed, safely installed and compliant with relevant requirements, helping you get the best long-term performance from your investment.
