Risks of Installing Solar Panels Yourself

These days, DIY projects have become incredibly popular, from renovating your home to assembling furniture. While tackling projects on your own can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment, it’s important to recognise that some tasks are best left to the experts.

Installing solar panels is one of those jobs that might seem manageable at first, but it comes with a range of hidden challenges and risks that aren’t always obvious.

When you decide to install solar panels yourself, you’re not just dealing with heavy equipment and complex wiring, you’re also working at heights, handling electrical components and making decisions that could affect your home’s safety and energy efficiency for years to come.

In this article, you’ll discover why installing solar panels yourself might not be as straightforward as it seems, what potential dangers you should be aware of and why professional installation is often the smarter and safer choice.

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Can I Install Solar Panels Myself?

First things first, it is completely legal to install solar panels on your own property in the UK. In general, there’s nothing stopping you from carrying out a 'do it yourself' (DIY) installation. However, you must comply with UK building regulations and electrical safety standards. You’ll also need to obtain the right permissions, such as planning permission if you live in certain areas. Skipping these steps could lead to fines or complications if you decide to sell your home.

While it is possible to fit solar panels yourself, it’s not usually recommended. Here’s just some reasons why:

• Electrical Safety Risks: Handling electrical systems without proper training can be dangerous and may lead to electric shocks or even fires.

• Roof Damage: Incorrect installation can cause damage to your roof, resulting in leaks or expensive repairs.

• Warranty and Insurance Issues: Many manufacturers and insurers require installation from a professional solar panel installer for their cover and warranties to remain valid.

• Reduced Efficiency: Mistakes in positioning or wiring can mean your panels don’t generate as much energy as they should, costing you money in the long run.

• Regulatory Hurdles: Navigating building regulations, planning permissions and certification can be complex without professional guidance.

Benefits of a DIY Solar Panel Setup

You could potentially save money by installing solar panels yourself

One of the biggest reasons people choose to install solar panels on their own is to save on the cost of professional labour. By handling the installation yourself, you avoid paying for skilled installers, which can significantly reduce the overall price of your solar system. This upfront saving can make solar energy more affordable, especially if you’re comfortable with DIY projects.

Curious about the cost of a professional solar panel installation? Take a look at our comprehensive guide to learn what you can expect to pay.

You have full control over the installation process

When you install solar panels yourself, you get to decide exactly how and where everything goes. This means you can tailor the setup to fit your home’s unique needs and preferences. You’re not relying on someone else’s schedule or choices, giving you the freedom to take your time and make adjustments as you go.

You gain valuable skills and experience

Taking on a DIY solar panel project means you’ll learn a lot about how solar energy works and how your system operates. This hands-on experience can be rewarding and useful if you want to maintain or expand your system in the future.

You can work at your own pace

Unlike hiring professionals who work on a set timeline, doing it yourself means you can install your solar panels when it suits you best. This flexibility allows you to fit the project around your schedule which may make it less stressful and more manageable.

You feel a sense of accomplishment

Completing a solar panel installation on your own is a big achievement. It’s satisfying to know you’ve taken a major step towards greener energy by using your own skills and effort. This pride can make your investment feel even more worthwhile.

Risks of a DIY Solar Panel Setup

Here's some of the drawbacks to installing solar panels yourself:

You could face serious electrical safety risks

Working with solar panels means dealing with high-voltage electricity. If you’re not a qualified electrician, there’s a real risk of electric shock or even starting a fire. Mistakes with wiring or connections can be dangerous for you and your household.

You might damage your roof during installation

Fitting solar panels involves drilling into your roof and handling heavy equipment at height. If you’re not experienced, you could accidentally cause leaks, cracks or other damage that might be expensive to repair and could affect your home’s structure.

Find out if your roof is suitable for solar panels in our expert guide.

Your warranties and insurance could be voided

Many solar panel manufacturers and home insurers require that your system is installed by a certified professional. If you go the DIY route, you might lose your warranty protection and find your insurance won’t cover any related issues.

You may struggle to meet UK regulations and standards

Solar panel installations in the UK need to comply with building regulations and electrical safety standards. Without professional help, it can be difficult to make sure your system is legal, safe and eligible for schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee.

Your system might not work as efficiently as it should

Professional installers know how to position and connect panels for the best performance. If you install them yourself, you might not get the most out of your investment, potentially leading to lower energy savings and a longer payback period.

Why Solar Panel Efficiency Matters

As mentioned above, if you decide to install solar panels yourself, your system may not operate as efficiently as it would with a professional installation. Solar panel efficiency is all about how much sunlight your panels can turn into usable electricity for your home. The higher the efficiency, the more energy you can generate from the same amount of sunshine, which is especially important if you have limited roof space or live in an area that doesn’t get a lot of direct sunlight.

Efficiency matters because it directly impacts how much you save on your electricity bills and how quickly you can recover your investment. More efficient panels mean you need fewer of them to meet your energy needs which can reduce your upfront costs and make your system less obtrusive on your roof. High efficiency also means your panels will perform better in cloudy or low-light conditions, and they often have a longer lifespan, providing clean energy for many years.

Simply put, the more efficient your solar panels are, the greater the benefits you’ll see from your system. If you install them yourself and lose some efficiency in the process, you could miss out on potential savings and overall value from your solar investment.

Check out our guide to the most efficient solar panels in the UK to find the best options for your home.

What Are Solar Panel Kits?

If you're still seriously considering installing solar panels yourself, one of the easier ways to get started is by using a solar panel kit. These kits come with most of the components you’ll need, such as solar panels, mounting brackets, wiring, and sometimes even an inverter and battery. They’re designed to simplify the process by providing everything in one package so you don’t have to source each part separately. This can save you time and reduce the chance of buying incompatible equipment.

DIY solar panel kits are especially popular for mobile homes, caravans and outdoor applications like sheds or garden offices. While they can be used for residential homes, it’s important to know that these kits are often less powerful and less efficient than the systems installed by professionals. In many cases, the savings you get from buying a kit are only marginal compared to the overall cost and performance of a professionally installed system.

However, even with a kit, you’ll still need to understand how to safely mount the panels, connect the electrical components and comply with local regulations. Kits can be a good option if you have some DIY experience and want to take on the project yourself, but once again, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully before deciding to go down this route.

How Are Solar Panels Installed?

As mentioned earlier, it’s completely legal to install solar panels on your own home in the UK. However, it’s not recommended as the process is complex and there’s a real risk your system won’t be as efficient or reliable as one fitted by a professional. If you’re now considering a professional installation, here’s what you need to do and what can expect from the process:

• Step 1 – Check if you need planning permission: Before anything else, you’ll need to find out if your property requires planning permission for solar panels. Most homes in the UK don’t, but it’s always best to check with your local council, especially if you live in a listed building or conservation area.

• Step 2 – Receive a quote from your chosen solar panel installer: Contact a reputable installer, such as Glow Green, to get a detailed quote. This will outline the costs, the type of system recommended for your home and what’s included in the installation.

Once you’ve agreed on the installation date, the process is usually straightforward and typically takes about two days:

• Step 3 – Scaffolding is set up: Installers will put up scaffolding around your home to allow safe access to your roof.

• Step 4 – Mounts are attached to the roof: Mounting brackets are fixed securely to your roof to hold the solar panels in place.

• Step 5 – Solar panels and wiring are installed: The panels are then attached to the mounts and the necessary wiring is run to connect them together.

• Step 6 – Solar inverter is connected: The inverter, which converts the solar energy into electricity you can use, is installed and connected to the panels.

• Step 7 – Solar battery is added (optional): If you’ve chosen a solar battery, it will be installed at this stage to store excess energy for later use.

• Step 8 – Solar panels are tested: The installer will thoroughly test your system to make sure everything is working correctly and safely.

• Step 9 – Receive your MCS pack to apply for SEG tariffs: After installation, you’ll receive an Microgeneration Certification Scheme pack, which you’ll need to apply for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and get paid for any excess electricity you export back to the grid.

For more details on each stage, you can read our comprehensive guide on how solar panels are installed.

The following images showcase a recent solar panel installation in Bournemouth completed by Glow Green.

What Happens After Solar Panels Are Installed?

Once your solar panels are installed, either by yourself or a professional, you’ll start generating your own electricity right away. However, to keep your system working efficiently and lasting as long as possible, you’ll need to carry out some basic maintenance. This includes monitoring your system’s performance, visually checking for any obvious issues like dirt build-up or loose fixings and keeping an eye on your inverter to make sure it’s working properly. Most solar panels are low-maintenance but a little attention goes a long way. Cleaning the panels every few years and trimming back any overhanging branches can help prevent problems and keep your energy output high.

It’s also a good idea to have your solar system professionally inspected every few years. A qualified technician can spot electrical or mechanical issues you might miss.Regular servicing also helps catch minor problems before they turn into expensive repairs. Keep a maintenance log of inspections, cleaning and any repairs. This not only protects your warranty but also helps you track your system’s performance over time.

Differences Between DIY and Professional Installation

If you’re still weighing up whether to install solar panels yourself or hire a professional, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two approaches (we've touched on some of these previously). With DIY installation, you might save money upfront and enjoy the satisfaction of completing a hands-on project. You’ll have full control over the process, from choosing the components to deciding how everything is set up. However, you’ll need a good understanding of electrical systems, construction and UK regulations. Mistakes can lead to safety hazards, reduced efficiency or even voided warranties, and you may find the process more time-consuming and stressful than expected.

On the other hand, professional installation comes with the expertise and experience of trained installers who know how to optimise your system for maximum performance and safety. Professionals, such as Glow Green, handle all legal and regulatory requirements, provide warranties and often offer ongoing maintenance and support. While the initial cost is generally higher, you benefit from peace of mind, better system efficiency and long-term savings due to fewer repairs and higher energy output.

Key Takeaways – Risks of Installing Solar Panels Yourself

As we've discussed, while it's legal and entirely possible to install solar panels yourself, it's not recommended. The process is far more complex than it might first appear, involving not just mounting panels but also working with high-voltage electricity and ensuring everything meets strict UK regulations. Without the right training and experience, you risk personal injury, electrical hazards and even fire. Falls from roofs and electric shocks are real dangers, and improper installation can have serious consequences for your home and safety.

Another major risk is that a DIY installation often leads to a less efficient solar setup. If panels aren’t positioned correctly or the wiring isn’t done to professional standards, your system may generate less electricity than it should, meaning lower savings on your energy bills. You could also miss out on important financial benefits, such as Smart Export Guarantee payments, because only professionally installed systems with the right certification are eligible. Plus, many manufacturers’ warranties and home insurance policies require professional installation, so you could be left without protection if something goes wrong.

By hiring a professional solar installer like Glow Green, you avoid these risks entirely. Professionals have the expertise to ensure your system is safe, fully compliant with all regulations and optimised for maximum efficiency. You’ll benefit from proper certification, access to export tariffs and the peace of mind that comes with warranties and ongoing support. In the long run, a professional installation protects your investment and helps you get the most out of your solar panels.

Ready to have solar panels installed on your home? Explore our guide to the best solar panels available in the UK to make an informed choice today.

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