moon 2 July 9, 2024, noon

Help! overwhelmed by home solar options. where to start?

Just got my latest electricity bill and nearly fainted. Thinking it's time to go solar, but I'm drowning in info. Panels, inverters, batteries - my head's spinning!

Anyone here actually done this? What's your setup like? Any regrets or things you wish you'd known? Budget's tight, so looking for the best bang for my buck.

Also, how do you deal with power companies? I've heard horror stories about net metering battles.

anny July 9, 2024, 8:22 p.m.

Did mine myself last summer. 6kW system, 16 panels. Saved a ton on install, but man, was it a learning curve. Pro tip: don't underestimate how heavy those panels are! Get help for the roof work.

Spent about $7k total. No ragrets.

audiold July 10, 2024, 11:04 a.m.

You're braver than me! We got quotes from three companies. Went with a 10kW system, Tesla Powerwall for backup. Yes, it was pricey (around $25k after rebates), but worth every penny.

Last month's electric bill: $11.50. Mostly fees. It's like printing money!

aspin July 10, 2024, 10:11 p.m.

Y'all are thinking too small! I went full off-grid. 15kW of panels, 60kWh battery bank, propane generator backup. Yeah, it was expensive, but I haven't paid an electric bill in 3 years.

Fair warning though: be ready to become your own utility company. It's not for the faint of heart.

aux July 11, 2024, 10:06 a.m.

Am I the only one who thinks this is all overblown? Sure, electricity prices suck, but so does a $25k investment. Why not just switch to LED bulbs and a smart thermostat? Way cheaper, still saves money.

ZOG July 11, 2024, 5:08 p.m.

Short-sighted much? It's not just about money. It's about energy independence, reducing carbon footprint, and being part of the solution.

But if you want numbers: my 8kW system will break even in 7 years. After that, it's all profit baby!

Aray July 12, 2024, 1:22 p.m.

Folks, don't forget about your roof! Had a buddy install solar, only to realize 2 years later he needed a new roof. Had to remove and reinstall everything. Mega headache.

Check your roof's condition first. And make sure your installer offers a good warranty that covers removal/reinstall if needed.

ligl85 July 13, 2024, 3:09 p.m.

Best decision I ever made! But word of advice: start with energy efficiency first. We air-sealed our attic, upgraded insulation, got a heat pump. Cut our energy use by 40% before even touching solar.

Meant we could install a smaller system and still cover 100% of our use. Win-win!

AG July 14, 2024, 11:01 a.m.

Anyone here in an HOA? Thinking about solar but worried about running afoul of the neighborhood nazis. How'd you navigate that minefield?

BontiHanter July 14, 2024, 8:12 p.m.

If you really want to geek out on this stuff, check out PVWatts from NREL. It's a free tool that estimates solar production based on your location, system size, etc. Super helpful for planning.

hgh212 July 16, 2024, 6:33 p.m.

Utility worker here. Look, we're not the enemy. Most of us support solar. But please, work with a reputable installer who knows local codes and interconnection requirements. You wouldn't believe the unsafe DIY setups I've seen.

And yeah, net metering is contentious. Laws vary wildly by state. Do your homework!