Your detached garage can be an ideal place for solar power installation. This backward place needs power for several reasons, and security is a major concern.
Detached garages are most commonly used as small workshops. For this reason, if you have an alternative power that can produce interrupted power and save electricity bills, it will be a bonus.
Solar panel installation for the detached garage is now easier than before. Besides, you can use the produced electricity for multiple functions.
However, you might ask several questions regarding this issue. Here you will find the best solution.
In this writing, we present the possibility of solar power installation in a detached garage. We will also help you estimate and budget with an authentic cost measurement.
Furthermore, you will get a step-by-step guide to installing solar power for your detached garage. Let’s’ get started with the solar power revolution for the backyard.
Contents
Can You Power Detached Garage On Solar Power?
Yes, you can install and power a detached garage on solar power. This renewable energy switch will allow you to do everything in the garage that requires electricity.
Most importantly, you can power the lights, automatic doors, security cameras, and battery charging of the vehicles.
A solar-powered garage will give you access to the self-dependent power system. A detached garage can be a great idea to install solar power in modern houses.
You can use the roof of the garage to install solar panels. This extra space will allow you to install a solar panel on an unused roof instead of the home.
Besides, solar power will help you operate the door even in power outages if you use power doors. It’s’ an advantage that you can not expect from the grid.
Another important thing you can expect from a solar-powered garage is vehicle battery charging.
Altogether, you can do everything on solar power in your detached garage.
How Many Solar Panels Do You Need For Detached Garages
Can I know the size and what equipment you have in your detached garage?
The number of solar panels depends on the number of equipment and power. If you have many electrical devices in the garage, it will need more power. At the same time, more power means several solar panels.
For example, if you have several lights and power doors, then you have to increase the power production.
Solar Lights Outdoor for Garage
A garage with simple equipment needs a minimum of 24KWh per month to run all the devices. A typical detached garage needs 45 KWh for operation every month.
With 6 hours of direct sunlight every day, you need 1 to 3 solar panels (300 Watt type) to power your detached garage.
The measurement varies depending on the structure, working capability, and additional devices.
For instance, some garages contain water pumps, washing units, and workshop machines. These heavy pieces of equipment require lots of power, and you have to calculate the needs before installing solar power.
So, it is clear that the number of panels completely depends on the energy consumption of the garage.
8 Steps Install Solar Power for Detached Garage
A perfect work plan gives you more opportunities to complete the installation process.
A step-by-step installation guide will help you understand the total process and find the best products for your detached garage.
Let’s’ explore.
Calculate Your Needs
First, you have to calculate your needs at the very beginning. Without evaluating the power consumption of the garage, it is difficult to install a perfect energy production unit.
You should include all the equipment that will consume electricity in the garage during the calculation.
Next, you have to calculate the capacity of the solar panel and compare it with the power required for the garage.
You can call a professional solar panel installer to get a perfect calculation. It enables you to find out the needs easily. However, there are several ways to calculate the needs and production of solar panels.
In most cases, the problem is that people install solar panels with the wrong calculation. It causes a lack of energy production, and you will be unable to get desired power.
So, don’t’ think that calculation is not an idea; it is the most crucial step.
Check If You Can Install Solar Panels On Garage Roof
You have to check the capability of the garage’s roof to install the solar panel. If you don’t’ want to install them on the ground, it is the best option for placing solar panels.
A garage with a concrete roof is ideal for solar panel installation. It can take the loads and pressure for multiple solar panels. Remember, a solar not only contains panels, but it also requires additional equipment to place the panels accurately.
In general, a solar system, especially the panel, lasts for at least 25 years. So, it is better to check the roof’s durability to ensure its strength for decades.
On the contrary, if the roof is made with another material, you can ask the professional for the best option, and they will provide you with the most effective solution. Following their instructions, you can utilize the space for outstanding results.
Another important thing is the position of the solar panel. South-facing solar panels will get bright sunlight for the whole day.
List Out The pieces of equipment To Run Detached Garage on Solar.
It is the same thing you need for a home solar panel installation. A solar system comes with multiple devices that work together to produce electricity.
The solar panel is the first thing you need to install under sunlight. According to your calculation, you have to install solar panels with the same capacity and wattage.
In a solar system, a solar panel is a device that absorbs power from the sun.
The charge controller is the device that controls the power and sends it to the battery or equipment. You can not use the energy directly from the solar panel.
Next, you need a power inverter. This device helps you to convert the DC electricity to AC power. Some devices run with AC power, and the solar system produces AC electricity.
So, a power inverter will convert the electricity type and make them usable.
Renogy 1000W 12V Pure Sine Wave off GRID Solar Home Use Solar Inverter
- 【POWERFUL DC-AC】This power inverter 12V to 110V provides 1000W continuous DC to AC power, 2000W peak surge during load start-up, 12V to 120VAC pure sine wave with conversion efficiency >90%, reduces conversion loss
- 【SAFE FOR USE】LED indicators for under-voltage and over-voltage protection, over-temperature protection, over-load protection, and short circuit indication. Cooling funs and ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection
- 【PROTECT YOUR ELECTRONICS】Advanced pure sine wave technology provides quality AC equivalent to grid power which will protect and extend the life of your electronics and appliances, such as flood light,TV, freezer,Laptop,tablet etc. With its quiet and high inductive loads, the solar inverter operates with no buzzing sounds when your electronics are turned on and allow them to run smoother, cooler, and quieter
A battery works as additional power storage in a solar system. If you want to use the power when sunlight is unavailable, you have to connect a battery to store the energy. In general, an off-grid solar system needs a battery.
The cable is the connecting solution for a solar system. You need cables to connect the solar panel, charge controller, and inverter.
Purchase
Now, you know how much energy is needed for the garage and what equipment to install. It is time to purchase the devices from an authentic source.
You can purchase a complete solar system installation package from a renowned installer. Another option is to buy the devices individually and call a professional installer to set them.
However, it is noticeably important to find an authentic product in the market. There are fake solar panels, and you will get nothing from a copy product.
You might find the price difference in your location because of tax and customs duty. But, international sellers offer the best price comparing the quality and production.
So, purchase authentic products from a renowned company and ask for the warranty and spare parts available in the future. Without the warranty, it is difficult to find a solution in case of uncertain problems.
Install Solar Panels
Installing your solar panels is like planting a tree. You have to prepare the base first. That means the place where you want to install the solar panels.
Solar panel placement is important because inadequate sunlight reduces electricity production and decreases the usability rate of the solar system.
The best option for solar panel installment is a south-facing open roof or space. You will get sunlight for the whole day in this position.
Another noticeable thing is installing the solar panel where there is no shade at all. If you have a solar system under the tree, the shades will be a great obstacle.
So, our recommendation is to install the solar panel in a place with adequate sunlight.
Connect The Equipment
Connecting the equipment is an effective part of solar panel installation because it will distribute the electricity perfectly.
The connection from the solar panel to the charge controller should contain sufficient voltage and ensure the electricity supply for the devices.
Like a power grid connection, you can not use cables and switches that require high voltage current. You have to select some specific electrical equipment that is suitable for solar energy.
On the contrary, if you have a battery for additional power, you can connect it directly to the charge controller.
You can run appliances that use AC from the solar panel. For this conversion, a solar inverter is required to convert the DC electricity into AC electricity.
Test Out The Output Energy
Now that you have already invested in getting a self-dependent power system, it is time to test the solar system’s output.
After following all the steps and installing the solar panel correctly, it is expected that you will get sufficient energy from the system.
You can test the output in several ways. The most effective way is to compare the power production in watts with the capacity of the solar system.
If the system produces the same energy that you have calculated before, the system is perfect and running successfully.
But, if you can’t’ run the devices with the same wattage, you have to re-adjust the solar panels and other devices.
In most cases, the problem comes from the availability of sunlight. Some regions get sunlight for 5 hours a day, and this inadequate brightness reduces production.
Complete Your Installation
After the test period, your solar panel is ready to run for the next 25 years. So, in this step, you have to inspect and ensure that everything is on the right track.
A silly mistake can bring massive destruction, and you can’t’ do anything then. For a grid-tied solar system, the connection must get a high level of security and safety.
Besides, off-grid solar systems are independent, and there is no option for alternative connectivity. So, as a consumer and user of an off-grid solar panel, you must check the charge controller, stabilizer, and inverter to ensure power production at a certain rate.
Finally, make a list of devices connected to the solar system and manage some powers for future addition of home appliances.
How Much Do You Need To Spend To Power Your Detached Garage On Solar?
We present this measurement and price estimation to help you understand the average cost of the solar panel installation for your detached garage.
The price might vary depending on your location, vat, and installation cost. Besides, the product quality will make a difference for different production systems.
It is better to discuss with the local solar panel supplier and installer to get the best price for your region.
| Energy Needed (Per day) | How Many 300 Watt Solar Panels | How Many 500 Watt Solar Panels | Spend on Others (Inverters, Batteries,…) | Total Cost |
| 1500 watt | 2 panels | 1 panel | $1500 | $2500 |
| 3000 watt | 2 panels | 2 panels | $2000 | $2700-$2800 |
| 4000 watt | 3 panels | 2 panels | $2500 | $3000-$3200 |
| 5000 watt | 4 panels | 3 panels | $3000 | $3500-$3800 |
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, you got the solution for the solar system that will enhance the capability of your garage and make it easier to use.
Now, you can install a solar panel hassle-free by following the steps. Try to go for the authentic products and make sure that everything is installed by comparing the energy consumption rate of the garage.
Keep everything in checking and monitoring for the best result. This single investment will serve your garage and reduce electricity bills for years.
A solar system is not just an electricity production unit; it’s an independent power solution for the garage.
