I often get this question: Can you add solar panels to an existing system? The simple answer is yes, you can add solar panels to an existing system.
In this post, I will explain things you need to know before adding solar panels to an existing system.
Things you need to consider before adding solar panels to an existing system
Before adding solar panels to an existing system, here are things that you need to consider.
Do you own the panels?
If you don’t own the panels, you must get the owner’s permission and agree on who pays for the extra solar panels.
Roof space
Adding extra solar panels will require extra space on your roof. Do you have enough space to add them?
The characteristics of existing panels
Solar panels come in different sizes and shapes; they have different power outputs. You need to make sure that the new solar panels are compatible with the existing ones.
Cost of adding solar panels
You will have to buy new solar panels, probably get a new inverter, pay people to install them, etc.; the cost might add up very quickly.
Use your original installer to add more panels
If you still have access to the original installer, it is a better decision to hire them so that they can add new solar panels. This is because they already have information and knowledge about the existing solar panels.
Can you add solar panels yourself?
If you have knowledge of electricity, you can add solar panels yourself and save some money, but be careful; it can be dangerous, and in some states you need to be certified to install solar panels.
Is adding solar panels beneficial to you?
This is the most important question to ask yourself. Is adding solar panels beneficial to you? Is it going to save you money? Are you doing your part to save the planet? Whatever the reason, it needs to make sense to you.
Five steps to follow before adding solar panels to an existing system
Here are five steps to follow before adding solar panels to an existing system.
Check the inverter’s capacity
An inverter is the device that will convert direct current electricity produced by solar panels to alternating current electricity we use at home.
If the inverter can’t handle the extra output, you may need to upgrade it.
You can add more microinverters to each new panel if your system uses them.
Assess your roof space
The ideal space to have your solar panels is on the roof. If there is not enough space on the roof, consider installing panels on your garage roof, shed, or ground.
Get the necessary permits
Unfortunately, you need permits to put solar panels on your house; it could be from local authorities, the utility company, etc.
Permission requirements can vary depending on your circumstances, such as inverter replacement or pole mounts.
You may need to notify your utility company about the expansion.
Install the new panels
After getting permits, you can add solar panels. Ensure the new panels are installed in a location that receives maximum sunlight.
Wire the new panels to your existing inverter.
Configure the system to handle the additional energy output.
Consider a solar battery
Solar batteries are expensive and usually take between 40 and 50% of the new installation cost, but if you are going to add new panels, a solar battery may be a more efficient option than adding additional solar panels.
FAQ: Can you add solar panels to an existing system?
Is it easy to add additional solar panels to an existing system?
Yes, it’s possible to add additional solar panels to an existing system after the initial installation. This process is known as solar system expansion and can be done to increase your energy production.
However, it’s important to assess your current inverter capacity and roof space to ensure compatibility
How much does it cost to add panels to an existing solar system?
All in all, adding a few extra solar panels could cost anywhere between $2,000 and $20,000 (or more!), depending on what upgrades are required
What happens if you add more solar panels than the inverter is rated to handle?
What happens if you overload a solar system? Under ideal conditions, when the sun is shining at the right angle, it can produce more solar energy than the inverter’s capability to convert into AC. In that scenario, excess energy will be lost. That is called clipping.
Is it better to oversize solar panels?
An oversized solar panel array will typically produce enough electricity to reduce or eliminate the need for additional energy from the grid during those peak hours.
Adding solar panels to your existing system can help you save on utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
