Can you buy a solar panel for a shed?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can absolutely buy solar panels for a shed. Sheds are a great use case for solar panels because they typically don’t require a lot of electricity, so even just one or two panels can be enough to power lights and small appliances or tools in a shed. When looking for solar panels for a shed, make sure to consider the power needs, the physical size of the panels, and the mounting options. With some planning and research, solar panels can be a cost-effective way to bring electricity to a shed while also being environmentally friendly.

Considering Power Needs

The first thing to think about when buying solar panels for a shed is the power needs. Consider what you want to run in the shed and estimate the wattage requirement. Some common electrical uses in sheds include:

• LED light bulbs – Typically 5-15 watts per bulb
• Power tools – Can range from 250 watts for a small saw up to 1500+ watts for larger tools
• Appliances like mini-fridges – Usually 100-200 watts
• Phone/laptop chargers – Around 15-60 watts each
• Security cameras and motion sensor lights – Up to 100 watts

Add up the wattage of all the items you want to run to estimate your total power requirement. This will help determine how many solar panels you need. For a minimal setup running just LED lights and occasional tool use, a 200-300 watt solar panel system is usually sufficient. For more extensive use with multiple tools and appliances, you may need a 1000+ watt system.

Sizing the Solar Panels

In addition to power output, consider the physical size of solar panels for your shed. Measure the usable roof space and look for panels that will fit in that area. Most standard panels for home use are around 65 inches by 39 inches. However, smaller panels designed for sheds and RVs are also available, some as small as 20 inches by 20 inches. Just keep in mind that the smaller the panel, the fewer watts it will produce.

When looking at solar panels, you’ll see specifications like 250W or 320W. This indicates the maximum power output for that panel in optimal sunlight conditions. To achieve a system size like 1000W, you would need multiple panels added together, such as four 250W panels. So consider both the size and power output when choosing.

Mounting Options

Installing solar panels on a shed involves mounting them securely to the roof. There are two main options:

Rooftop Mounts:

This method involves using rails and mounting hardware to attach the solar panels directly to the shed roof rafters. The rails elevate the panels a few inches to provide ventilation underneath. This works well for metal and shingle roofs.

Pole Mounts:

With this option, the panels mount onto poles secured into the ground or onto concrete blocks. This method works well if the shed roof space is limited or obstructed. The poles allow you to tilt the panels at the optimal angle to catch sunlight.

Most mounting kits are designed for each type of roof and provide all the hardware needed. Kits make installation much easier than DIY approaches.

Charge Controllers and Batteries

In addition to the solar panels themselves, you also need:

• Charge Controller – Regulates the voltage from the panels to safely charge batteries. Prevents overcharging.
• Batteries – Store power produced by the panels. Necessary for using electricity at night or on cloudy days.
• Inverter – (Optional) Converts DC from batteries to standard AC power for appliances.

When selecting these components, make sure they are compatible with your system voltage and power output. Components are sized based on the solar panel watts and battery bank capacity.

Many solar panel kits include charge controllers and inverters that are already right-sized for that system. Batteries often need to be purchased separately. A good rule of thumb is to buy enough batteries to provide 3+ days of power without sun.

Cost Considerations

The costs for a solar panel system for a shed can range quite a bit, but expect to pay:

– $100 to $300 for a small 50-100 watt panel kit
– $800 to $1500 for a complete 300-400 watt system
– $2500+ for a large 1000+ watt system with expanded battery capacity

The solar panels themselves make up the biggest share of the system cost. The more power output, the higher the price. Battery banks are the second biggest expense. Going with cheaper components can bring costs down, but may sacrifice durability or efficiency.

Over the long term, solar panels can provide a cost savings by reducing or eliminating electric bills. The return on investment timeline varies greatly based on energy use and the costs of local electricity. Most shed systems provide payback in 4-8 years.

DIY vs Professional Installation

If you’re fairly handy, installing solar panels on a shed as a DIY project can certainly be done. Many kits are designed for DIYers and come with instructions. However, some key points to consider:

• Rooftop installations require climbing onto the roof repeatedly which can be dangerous.
• Connecting electrical components like charge controllers requires working with high voltage wires.
• A DIY system may not be as durable or weatherproof as professional installation.
• Permits may be required for electrical work, depending on local codes.
• Professionals have specialized skills and equipment to complete the project safely and efficiently.

For those not comfortable with the electrical or construction work, hiring a solar installer is recommended. This route costs more upfront, but results in an expertly installed system. Look for NABCEP certified solar companies.

Step-by-Step Guide

Installing solar panels on a shed involves careful planning, safety precautions, and attention to detail. Follow these steps:

1. Choose a Location

Pick a south-facing section of roof with little shading from trees or other buildings. The panels require direct sun exposure, especially between 9am-3pm.

2. Determine Power Needs

Factor in all electric devices and appliances you want to run. This determines the system wattage and number of panels needed.

3. Purchase Components

Buy solar panels, mounts, wires, a charge controller, batteries, and any other items required for the full system. Or purchase as a pre-configured kit.

4. Install Mounting System

For roof mounts, attach rail supports directly onto roof rafters using lag bolts into roof joists. Follow manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Mount Panels

Secure each panel onto the railing system using the manufacturer recommended clamps. Observe proper spacing between panels.

6. Wire the System

Connect the panels into banks, wire to charge controller, connect batteries, and run wiring into shed according to electrical codes.

7. Attach Safety Labels

Affix labels indicating live voltage to solar panel structures and near electrical components.

8. Inspect and Test

Visually inspect the system for secure connections, no exposed conductors, and proper operation. Test with a multimeter.

9. Obtain Electric Permit (if necessary)

Check local building codes and acquire an electrical permit if required before operating the system.

Sizing Solar Panels for Common Shed Uses

To determine how many solar panels you need, it’s helpful to look at some common electrical loads in sheds and the recommended panel capacity:

Shed Use	Appliances / Loads	Recommended Solar Panel Size
Basic lighting and phone charging	2 x LED light bulbs (10W each) Phone charger (10W)	50-80W panel
Power hand tools	Table saw (1500W) Drill (500W) Battery charger (250W)	400W panels x 4 = 1600W
Off-grid workshop	Miter saw (1200W) Circular saw (800W) Air compressor (1000W) Mini-fridge (100W) Multiple lights (200W total)	400W panels x 5 = 2000W

These are just examples – make sure to tally all of your own planned loads!

Key Considerations When Buying Solar Panels for a Shed

If you’re looking to add solar panels to a shed, keep these important tips in mind:

– Consider both power output (watts) and physical size of panels. Ensure they will fit on your shed roof.

– Solar panels can feed a battery bank to store power for cloudy days. Size your battery capacity to match electrical loads.

– Use mounting rails and hardware specific for the roof material (shingle, metal, etc). Proper mounting is key.

– Look for good warranty coverage (10-25 years) and efficient panel technology (polycrystalline, monocrystalline).

– Running wires from panels to shed will likely require electrical permits. Consider hiring an electrician.

– DIY installation can be complex. Solar professionals can ensure code compliance, safety, efficiency.

– Start small if needed – you can always add more panels later. Pay attention to aspect like tilt angle for max sun.

– Solar panels paired with batteries provide reliable energy independence and can pay for themselves over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many solar panels do I need for a shed?

This depends on your power requirements. Most sheds can run on 1-3 panels ranging from 50W to 400W output. Measure devices’ wattages and calculate total load.

What size solar system is needed for a fridge and lights?

A small mini-fridge may use around 100 watts. LED lights use about 10-15 watts each. Start with a 250 watt panel and 2-3 batteries – this should comfortably run a fridge, several lights, and phone charging.

How much does a 400 watt solar system cost?

A full 400 watt solar panel system costs $800-$1,200 on average including the panels, mounts, wiring, charge controller, and a pair of 100 amp-hour batteries. Larger batteries can increase costs.

How much sun do solar panels need?

Solar panels need at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day for adequate power generation. Position panels to receive maximal morning to midday sun, avoiding shade from trees or structures.

Do solar panels work in winter?

Yes, but they produce less power in winter compared to summer due to shorter days, lower sun angle, and snow cover. Get bigger panels if relying solely on solar in winter. Use batteries to store summer surplus.

Conclusion

Installing solar panels lets you tap into the sun’s energy for free electricity. For a shed, one or two panels along with deep cycle batteries can power lights, tools, appliances, or other equipment while avoiding costly electrical connections. Carefully consider the electrical loads, panel sizing, mounting options, component selection, and permits. With smart planning and safe installation, solar panels are a reliable way to electrify your shed while reducing environmental impact.