If you have questions about solar systems Read this 1st.

Before we get into the specifics of a solar system design there are some things you need to know. This will determine if you really want to go with solar power or not.

1. Are you a “Do It Yourself” type of person ?

2. Do you like to learn new things ?

3. Are you ok with basic math problems like adding/dividing ?

4. Do you like the idea of being self sufficient from the grid ?

If you answered YES to the above questions then you will be fine designing and building or installing your own system. If you answered NO to the math question, you will need help with your building and operation of a solar system.

If you answered NO to questions 1 or 2 above, then I would forget thinking about solar systems for a power solution. The basic need to learn about a solar system is required, even if you plan on having it installed, because at some point, you will have a problem. And if you don’t know how your system works, and you can’t get help, then you will be without power and no way to fix it.

Solar power isn’t like the local power company where you can call them up when the power goes out. And many repairmen in this business can be hard to get hold of, and worse, not be able to get parts. Paying someone to fix your system can get very expensive real quick.

Downside

The primary downside is loss of power due to extended days of no sun.  Usually due to a hurricane or other weather issues. This is a rare event of perhaps 10-15 yrs or more and usually requires running a generator till normal conditions return. Most systems survive normal storms and weather patterns with 3 to 5 days of minimal sunlight. If conditions worsen, you will need to manage your power usage by turning off things. You will know these things after living off grid with your own system for awhile.
 Maintenance is small, unless you're using lead acid batteries. Lead acid is cheap but dangerous and maintenance intense.

If you’re still interested in learning about solar systems and designing one for your own needs then read on. It’s not impossible and do it yourself people are always doing it one way or the other. I’m here to show you how, without costing you a lot of money.