Subscribe for handpicked DIY projects, exclusive tips, and giveaways.
We care about your data in our privacy policy.
Garden
Camping & RV
Farming
Reviews
Lights
Pool
Systems
Attic
Generators
Recent Posts
Gather mason jars, solar garden lights, and a wire basket to create an elegant outdoor chandelier that requires zero electrical wiring and costs under $50. Pop the solar panels off inexpensive garden stakes, fit them into jar lids you’ve drilled holes through, and suspend everything from a chandelier frame you’ll make from the basket or…
Check your solar system’s ground fault protection monthly by verifying the insulation resistance between your DC circuits and ground stays above 500 ohms per volt of system voltage. Install an insulation monitoring device (IMD) on any off-grid system over 48 volts or grid-tied system operating without galvanic isolation to catch deteriorating wire insulation, damaged solar…
Measure your step dimensions before buying anything—width, depth, and riser height determine which solar lights will actually fit and stay secure on concrete surfaces. Most homeowners discover too late that their beautiful new lights won’t mount properly because they grabbed generic fixtures instead of concrete-compatible options. Choose between three proven installation methods for concrete steps:…
Disconnect your charge controller from the internet immediately if you’re not actively monitoring it—most DIY solar setups don’t need constant connectivity, and an offline system can’t be hacked remotely. Change every default password on your solar equipment right now, using unique 15+ character combinations that include numbers, symbols, and mixed-case letters, because default credentials like…
Picture this: You’re browsing solar panel specs and suddenly see energy output measured in joules, watt-hours, and kilowatt-hours all mixed together. Confusing, right? I’ve been there myself, standing in my garage with a handful of solar equipment brochures, wondering why some manufacturers use joules while others stick to watts. That moment sparked my journey into…
Combine multiple power sources to create a resilient energy system that keeps your home running when solar panels can’t produce electricity. Start by identifying which backup sources match your property’s natural resources—flowing water, consistent wind, or reliable grid access—then layer them strategically so you’re never dependent on a single energy supply. This approach transforms solar…