This story is part of Household TipsCNET’s collection of practical advice for making the most of your home, inside and out.
If you’re thinking about going solar, you’ll likely encounter equipment and policies you’ve never considered before. It’s easy to ignore your electricity, except for a few times it comes out. Fortunately, with a reliable solar installer, going solar is easy even for a non-expert.
However, knowing the ins and outs of the technology and installation process will make you a more confident and able shopper to find the best product for your needs. Below we’ve collected CNET’s expert advice to walk you through the solar buying process, from education to solar power generation.
Where can I buy solar panels?
The best way to make sure you’re getting the best deal on your solar panels is to get multiple quotes and ask as many questions of your potential installers as you need to. CNET reviewed several national solar companies, but it’s a good idea to also check with local installers, who can sometimes offer lower prices.
Solar panels work in many different climates, not just the sunniest.
Raimund Koch/Getty Images
Is there a solar option available to me?
While rooftop solar panels are most common among residential customers, purchasing panels and installing them on your home is not the only option. We have mounting options and solar panel alternatives explained below.
How much money can solar panels save me? And how much do they cost?
In general, buying solar panels outright will save you the most money, but there are some ways to save. And, your circumstances — especially your energy use — will determine your savings.
Regular cleaning can improve solar panel production, especially in dry dusty climates.
SunPower
How do I maintain solar panels?
Solar panel maintenance is usually minimal and easy. However, we have the information you need to keep your panels in top shape.
Does solar work where I live?
Sure, solar panels can generate more electricity in sunnier climates with longer days, but how much money you save depends a lot on the incentives available to you and the cost of electricity – not only in the climate. See overviews of cities, states and regions below.
Ground-mounted solar panels may be a better option for some homes.
King Lawrence/Getty Images
How do solar panels work, though?
Buying a solar panel system means buying a lot of equipment that the average person has no reason to know about. Read exactly what you should be buying with the stories linked below.
Do I need a backup battery?
Backup battery adoption is increasing, but still not the norm. These links will help you decide if it makes sense for you.
Are solar panels a scam?
No. Solar panels are a proven technology that can help you shift some of your energy use to cheaper green electricity. But that doesn’t mean scammy companies (although rare) don’t exist anymore. The company mentioned in the story linked below recently went out of business, but a little caution is a good thing.
We’ll add more of CNET’s solar coverage here as it happens.