Where to Buy DIY Solar Panels

Solar Panels/January 24, 2023

Are you looking to buy DIY solar panels but don’t know where to start? Luckily, sourcing new or used panels for your DIY solar project is less of an ordeal than it was a decade ago.

But before we point you in the right direction, it’s important to understand what a DIY solar project entails so you can make the right decision. Here are a few resources to get you started:

Now, let’s see where you can buy DIY solar panels.

Where to Buy Used DIY Solar Panels

Used DIY solar panels are a good way to save extra money. You can find great deals from individuals and businesses reselling panels in smaller quantities or bulk. However, you must be patient and wait to find exactly what you are looking for.

Online Marketplaces

Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to find second-hand solar panels. Check these places for used solar panels:

Facebook Marketplace
Craigslist
eBay
OfferUp

Look for local offers first to avoid paying for shipping which can be quite expensive.

These online offers usually come from people who recently bought a house with solar but want the panels anymore. Or homeowners who’re putting a new roof, so they decided to replace the solar panels too. Bigger quantities usually appear when a solar system has been taken down from a commercial site.

Local Solar Installers

It may be worthwhile to visit or call your local solar installer. There is a variety of reasons why a solar company might end up with some used solar panels that they would let go at a low price.

SanTan Solar

SanTan Solar is the best-known online retailer for “used, refurbished, repaired, and overstock solar panels!” They not only have a good selection of solar panels but also sell supporting equipment like inverters that you will need to make a full grid tie system.

They’re located in Arizona and Georgia, so if you happen to live there, you might be able to negotiate a better deal if you drive up and pay in person.

Where to Buy New DIY Solar Panels

If you don’t want to risk it with used solar panels and want to buy new ones, you’ve landed in the right place.

GoGreenSolar

For over 16 years, GoGreenSolar has been THE place to go for new DIY solar panels.

We hold a range of high-quality solar panels to choose from based on size, color, wattage, efficiency and brand. The biggest advantage is that our solar panels come with a kit that includes everything you need for a successful DIY project.

Additionally, our experts will walk you through the process from start to finish: determine the size and type of solar system you need, assist with permitting and interconnection paperwork, and provide tech support during the installation.

Finally, GoGreenSolar is the only DIY solar company with a money-back guarantee. If your permit isn’t approved, we will provide a full refund.

Don’t wait any longer to start your DIY solar project and reach out to GoGreenSolar today.

Learn more: Why Choose GoGreenSolar DIY Solar Kits

More Places to Buy DIY Solar Panels From

To ensure you get the best value for your money, do your due diligence and check customer reviews before making a purchase.

CED Greentech – Many locations around the US. No services or support.
altE – Except for solar sizing, they don’t offer any other services or tech support.
Renvu – Complete equipment. They offer third-party permitting services, and no help for utility interconnection.
Project Solar – Low price but a lot of unsatisfied customers too.

Learn more: The Best Residential Solar Panels

Things to Consider Before Buying DIY Solar Panels

Solar panel typically have a 25-year warranty. Although the warranty may be void on the used panels, there is a decent chance that they will last the full 25 years if they have been handled properly by the previous owners.
It is important to know that solar panel outputs degrade over time so if the older they get, the less output can be expected. Even if they are really cheap, it is not a good idea to buy solar panels that are too old because it will be a lot of work to replace them later.
Another thing to watch out for if you live in a state like California is to make sure they are on the list of approved solar panels. Many of the older models are not on the list and can not be installed or require extra paperwork to get approved.
There are different types of solar panels. DIY solar panels aren’t any different from regular panels. However, there are types that are meant to be part of grid tie solar power systems and some that are just meant for smaller applications like charging a cell phone or powering landscape lighting.
For a typical grid-tie system, you are looking for solar panels that are generally around 3-3.5 feet wide and 5-7 feet long, with an output of at least 300 watts. Anything smaller will require a lot more work with racking and electrical connections. Anything larger can be difficult to put in place.