Buying solar panels to power your home can be a great money decision. This will increase the resale value of your home, provide a large tax credit and will save you money on energy for decades. Solar panels can can produce energy for a long time (Many warranties are for 25 years), so they should produce good energy after you pay them off. Even with these potential benefits, the initial cost can be daunting. And, with new technologies (eg GAF’s Energy’s Timberline Solar shingle), it can be difficult to know where to shop.

Buying residential solar panels doesn’t have to be one-stop shopping. It’s always a good idea to get quotes from multiple installers. And, you have to go in with a solid understanding your energy needsYOUR national and local tax incentives and your options for purchase or financing in another way. There are more tips in our solar panel buying guide.

When you’re ready to shop, you have several options, explained below. It is important to note that we have not tested the panels or gone through the purchase process through any of these outlets. This guide will help you know where to look, not which solar array is best for your needs.

Read more: Best Solar Companies in 2022

Hardware retailers

Your big-box retailers like The Home Depot sells solar panels, mounting hardware, inverters and charge controllers. Home Depot makes it simple to buy solar panels through its website or at your local store. If you want professional installation, it will match you with licensed, insured installation professionals. In Lowe’s case, it is offers a one to two year warranty on the work. Stores may also offer financing options, such as a credit card to help you break the costs upfront.

And if you’re a do-it-yourselfer, these stores sell everything you need to install the system, saving you money relative to professional installation options.

Specialty options

Another route is to choose a solar company like Sunrun, which works with Costco. To get started, Sunrun offers a free consultation to help you learn more about their services and equipment.

During that time, a representative will visit your home, learn more about your needs, then inspect and measure your home’s roof. Finally, Sunrun will finalize project details such as how many solar panels do you need and the costs.

Sunrun even offers financing, a 10-year warranty, and 2% cashback when you have a Costco Executive Membership. However, one thing to consider with these options is that they are not available in all states. So you need to contact the company to find out your eligibility.

Another option on this front is SunPower. Its website is unique because it allows you to design your solar panel system online. And when you’re ready to buy, the company will hire local, qualified contractors to complete the job. It also offers flexible payment options, including 0% down to make the system more budget flexible.

Solar companies online

You can also choose an online solar provider like Tesla. These providers design their no-grid panels with a low profile to achieve a minimalist look. Tesla stands behind its products with a 25-year warranty.

These companies also make the process convenient. Once you request a consultation, Tesla will take aerial pictures of your home to determine the design and cost of the project. It requires the care of permission, which allows you to relax during the installation. In addition, your purchase includes mobile monitoring, giving you access to system performance and production.

You can also go with Zenernet Solar. It takes away the entire process, from custom designing your solar system to hiring reputable contractors to complete the project. You can schedule a free consultation with Zenernet.

Local choices

Partnering with local companies can be the best of both worlds. You can shop online for solar panels, inverters and more. Or, you visit a local dealer to ask questions, design your system and resolve complaints. Companies like Sunpro Solar and Palmetto take care of everything at home. That way, you have a handy resource that guides you every step of the way, keeping you informed and comfortable along the way.

Sunpro Solar also offers roofing services to accommodate the longevity of solar panels. And Palmetto provides customers with an app, which allows you to monitor efficiency.

Other purchase considerations

When considering solar options, research the companies you are considering. Check their warranty offers, prices, installation costs and timeframes, customer reviews, panel recycling methods and reputations through third-party resources such as the Better Business Bureau. Also, check to see if a company will help you with the permit (if applicable). Doing your homework will help you find a reputable provider.

In addition, consider all the financial aspects of the project. Don’t forget to include costs for permits, installation and upgrading or replacing the roof. Alternatively, be sure to take advantage of the tax incentives such as the Investment Tax Credit, which can reduce your federal tax liability by 26% of the total cost of the solar panel system. States also have programs where you can receive more benefits, lowering your initial investment.


Now playing:
View by:

Hydrogen, solar and wind: How this ship creates its own …


6:53