DIY Solar Setup: A Guide to Building Your Own Solar

by | Mar 13, 2023 | DIY | 10 comments

DIY Solar Setup: A Guide to Building Your Own Solar Panel System

With the increasing demand for renewable energy, many people are turning to solar power as a way to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. However, buying a pre-built solar panel system can be expensive, which is why many are opting to build their DIY solar setup. Building your solar panel system is not as complicated as it may seem, and with the right materials and tools, it can be done relatively easily. In this article, we will provide you with a guide to building your DIY solar setup and list all the materials needed, along with links to Amazon and AliExpress where you can purchase them.

Step 1: Determine Your Energy Needs


The first step in building your DIY solar setup is to determine your energy needs. You need to calculate how much electricity you use in a day, week, or month. This can be done by checking your utility bills or using an online energy calculator. Once you have determined your energy needs, you can then calculate the number of solar panels and batteries you will need to power your home.

Step 2: Buy Solar Panels


The most important part of your DIY solar setup is the solar panels. You need to purchase high-quality solar panels that are efficient and durable. There are several types of solar panels available, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film solar panels. Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient and expensive, while polycrystalline panels are less expensive but less efficient. Thin-film solar panels are the least expensive and least efficient.

Here are some recommended solar panels for your DIY solar setup:

  1. RHQST 100 Watt Monocrystalline Solar Panel High Efficiency Module PV Power for Battery Charging Boat, Caravan, RV and Any Other Off Grid Applications 32.5 x 26.4 x 1.18 Inches- Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/420UzFn
  2. RICH SOLAR 100 Watt 12 Volt Portable Solar Panel All Black (100W Black Premium) – Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3FifcTy
  3. 2Pcs 4Pcs 10Pcs 100W solar panel Monocrystalline Solar Cell Flexible for Car/Yacht/Steamship 12V 24 Volt 100 Watt Solar Battery – AliExpress Link: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DBmOA61

Step 3: Buy Charge Controller


A charge controller is an essential component of your DIY solar setup. It regulates the voltage and current from the solar panels to the batteries to ensure that the batteries are not overcharged or undercharged. There are two types of charge controllers: PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking). MPPT controllers are more efficient and expensive than PWM controllers.

Here are some recommended charge controllers for your DIY solar setup:

  1. Renogy Wanderer 10 Amp 12V/24V PWM Negative Ground Solar Charge Controller – Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3TcrYso
  2. EPEVER MPPT Solar Charge Controller 40A 12V/24V Auto, 40Amp Negative Grounded Solar Panel Charger – Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3LexaKA
  3. Solar Panel Controllers 60A Solar Charge Controller Automatic Recognition of Input Voltage LCD Max 170V Input Volt Off-grid MPPT – AliExpress Link: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DdEMBbP

Step 4: Buy Batteries


Batteries store the energy generated by the solar panels for later use. There are several types of batteries available, including lead-acid, lithium-ion, and nickel-cadmium batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular and efficient, but they are also the most expensive. Lead-acid batteries are less expensive but less efficient and require maintenance.

Here are some recommended batteries for your DIY solar setup:

  1. Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery 12 Volt 100Ah for RV, Solar Marine and Off-grid Applications & 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel, Compact Design 42.2 X 19.6 X 1.38 inch- Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/424mnZs
  2. New KEPWORTH LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery 12V 100Ah with Built-in 100A BMS For RV Campers Solar Golf Carts Marine Trolling Motor – AliExpress Link: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DBoHRhT

Step 5: Buy Inverter


An inverter converts the DC (Direct Current) electricity from the batteries to AC (Alternating Current) electricity that can be used to power your home appliances. There are several types of inverters available, including pure sine wave inverters, modified sine wave inverters, and grid-tied inverters. Pure sine wave inverters are the most expensive but produce the cleanest power for sensitive electronics, while modified sine wave inverters are less expensive but can produce “dirty” power that can damage electronics.

Here are some recommended inverters for your DIY solar setup:

  1. AIMS Power 3000 Watt Pure Sine Inverter Charger – Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3JdvmPc
  2. WZRELB 2500 Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter – Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/425oLPC
  3. FCHAO pure sine wave inverter 3600W power output voltage 220V 230V 240V frequency 50HZ 60HZ car solar panel home transformer – AliExpress Link: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DcihKLF

Step 6: Buy Mounting Hardware and Wiring


You must mount your solar panels on a sturdy frame and connect them to the charge controller and batteries using the wiring. You will also need to ground the system to prevent electrical shocks. Here are some recommended mounting hardware and wiring for your DIY solar setup:

  1. RICH SOLAR Solar Panel Mounting Hardware Z Brackets for RV Roof Boat Set of 4 Units – Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3Ldfa3g
  2. 10 AWG Solar Panel Wire 100 Feet – Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3Fith3t
  3. MC4 Solar Panel Cable Connector – AliExpress Link: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DFHLqr3

Conclusion

Building your DIY solar setup can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to power your home with renewable energy. By following the steps outlined in this article and purchasing the recommended materials, you can build a reliable and efficient solar panel system. Remember to always follow safety precautions and consult a professional if you are unsure about any aspect of the installation process. Good luck with your DIY solar setup!