If you call Texas home, chances are you have noticed a lot of new solar panels going up in your area. Texas has seen a drastic increase in solar use over the last few years, so much so that it is now the number two state in the country for solar power use. With just over two-thirds of the year bringing sunny weather, it’s really no surprise that Texans would want to take advantage of this abundant, clean energy source.

Even if all your neighbors are switching to solar, purchasing a full solar system can still be an intimidating prospect. Well, not to worry, we’ve crunched the numbers to help give you a better perspective of what this investment would entail as well as when you can expect to start seeing the financial benefits.

The Cost of Solar In Texas

The best place to start this investigation is to determine the cost of a full solar installation. As you’re surely aware, Texas is a big place and prices can vary drastically from city to city. With that in mind, we have had to base the information in this article on the state average. If you’re interested in an estimate for your specific area, try our solar cost calculator.

The average cost for solar in Texas is approximately $2.70 per watt. This means that a 5kW system should cost between $11,000 and $16,000. This is slightly above the national average, but the number of peak sunlight hours per day in Texas is also above average which can help to make up for the increased cost.

The system size that you need will depend on the amount of electricity you use and how much of that usage you would like to switch to solar. If you use approximately 39kWh per day (the average in Texas), you would need a 10kW to go completely solar. Keep in mind that many solar systems can be expanded, meaning that you can start small and build up. Just remember to discuss this with your installer from the very beginning to avoid any problems down the road.

Here is a handy chart showing the average cost of solar systems in a variety of sizes.

For more information on the cost of solar panels and what can effect that cost, check out this article.

Remember, these prices are based on the state average, so they will vary by company and location. Even if you find a system that is slightly below the average cost, you’re still looking at a fairly hefty investment. Thankfully, most states offer tax breaks and other incentives for solar users and Texas is no exception.

Solar Incentives In Texas

Although there aren’t any state-wide solar incentives, you can expect some pleasant rebates depending on your electricity provider. In addition, Texas is a net metering state. Net metering allows you to earn credit on any extra electricity that your solar system generates. That credit can then be used to pay for any extra electricity you may need on those less sunny days.

Here are some of the incentives offered by Texas’ biggest electricity providers:

Austin Energy offers a $2500 rebate for solar users, plus you could be eligible to receive $0.097/kWh through net-metering.

CPS Energy also offers a $2500 rebate for completing their solar energy course and installing an approved solar system.

Guadalupe Valley Electric Coop offers $1.00/W on approved solar systems with a maximum of a $4,000 rebate.

Other providers offer rebates as well, but they often have strict requirements and guidelines so be sure to check with your electricity provider before making any big purchase decisions.

Federal Tax Credit
Who doesn’t love a good tax credit? It’s even better when you get that credit for going Green. With the Investment Tax Credit, you can deduct 26% of your installation cost off of your federal taxes. That percentage is going to drop to 22% in 2023 and disappear in 2024, so don’t hesitate too long if you want to take advantage of this tax credit.

The Cost Of Electricity In Texas

According to the Energy Information Administration, the average cost of electricity in Texas as of August 2021 was 12.03 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). This is slightly lower than the national average which can make it seem like you may not need solar, but let’s dig a little deeper.

The average Texas home uses approximately 39.2kWh per day, that’s more than 10kWh more than the national average. This could be caused by increased air conditioning and other climate control equipment among other things. This high electricity usage results in monthly electricity bills ranging from $126 to $142 per month.

When Will Your Solar System Start Paying Off?

A little bit of math shows us that Texans spend about $1,500 to $1,700 on electricity every year. Although this is just an estimate, we can use these numbers to help us get a general idea of when your solar investment will start to truly pay off, at least in terms of financial gain.

Throughout most of the United States, the average peak sunlight hours rest at about 4 hours per day. Lucky for Texas residents, the Lone Star State enjoys 19% more peak hours per day which means more solar energy each day. The following chart is based on premium power generation, so final numbers will vary, but it will give you a general idea of what to expect.

Looking at these numbers may make you hesitate, 8 to 10 years seems like a long time at the onset, but now is the time to look at the big picture.

In general, solar panels are designed to work at peak efficiency for 25 to 30 years. Most manufacturers will guarantee their solar systems for up to 30 years. After the 30 years are over, the system will start to lose efficiency, but not immediately and typically at a very slow rate.

How Much Money Will You Save In The Long Run?

Considering all the numbers we have already discussed, you might be a bit overwhelmed, but here are the most exciting numbers. Based on the averages, you could save somewhere between $30,000 and $35,000 over the 20 years after the system has paid for itself.

These numbers are based solely on the average monthly electricity bills in Texas. This does not include any extra you may gain from net metering or the power your system will generate after the initial 30 years. If your system is well-maintained, it could continue to generate high levels of power for many years to come, which means more savings for you and your family.

Is Solar Worth It In Texas?

If you have made it this far into this article, you already know the answer to this question. Solar is definitely worth it in Texas! With more sunny days and longer peak sunshine hours throughout those days, Texas is basically the prime location for a solar installation. Add in Texas’ solar incentives and you have a recipe for a solid investment that you won’t regret.

Interested in trying solar, but not ready to invest in a full solar system? Check out our Green Living page for loads of useful information about products you can use to start integrating solar power into your everyday life. If you are interested in a full system, don’t forget to check out our solar cost calculator for a slightly more personalized estimate.

The post Are Solar Panels Worth It In Texas? appeared first on EarthTechling.

Finding the right solar company near you is as simple as knowing what you need and using that knowledge to sort through your wide range of options. For those of you who just want to know what is available in your area, you can jump right to our solar company directory. You’ll find listings for hundreds of quality solar companies, sorted by location so you can easily pull up a list of those in your state or enter your zip code below.

For those of you looking for a little more in-depth information about finding the right solar company for you, read on for some helpful tips and insights. Some of this information may seem obvious to those who have been researching solar for a while, but we want to help the pros and newbies alike, so we’re going to start with the basics.

The Types of Solar Companies

Just like all home appliances and devices, solar panels come in multiple forms from a wide variety of manufacturers. Knowing this, it should come as no surprise that there are also a few different types of solar companies, mainly: manufacturers, dealers, installers, financers, leasers, and full-service companies.

Solar Manufacturers

Solar manufacturers are exactly what they sound like, they are companies that actually manufacture solar panels and the equipment required to install them. Some of these companies are more well-known than others and they vary in quality. If you want to install your solar system yourself, you could try purchasing the panels directly from the manufacturer. Note that most manufacturers only sell panels through solar dealers, which is why they are next on our list.

Solar Dealers

A solar dealer is the equivalent of a car dealership in the solar world. Licensed solar dealers strictly sell solar panels and related equipment, so this is where you would want to look if you’re taking the DIY solar route. Some dealers only sell one brand while others may provide a few options. Even if you don’t want to install your system yourself, visiting a couple of solar dealers could give you an idea of what is available as well as help you gain a better understanding of what all goes into installing a full solar array.

Solar Installers

Solar installers are contractors that will come out and professionally install your system for you. Some installers are strictly that, installers. This means that you have to purchase the equipment separately and they simply set it up. This is not as common as full-service companies, which we’ll talk about in a minute, but they are out there. A solar installer would be a good option for anyone who may already have the equipment or simply wants to be more involved in the process.

Solar Financers

Solar finance companies offer financing for your solar project. Installing a full solar system is quite an investment, so you may need some assistance when it comes to the initial funding. Solar financing companies work with installers and dealers to make the process easier. Because solar energy has become so much more popular over the last decade, most financial institutions offer solar financing. If you do choose to finance your project, be sure to check with multiple institutions to ensure that you secure the best financing for your unique situation.

Solar Leasers

Did you know that you can lease a solar system? With a leased system, you pay the solar leasing company a set amount each month while you get to enjoy all the electricity that the system produces. This can be a good choice for those who don’t want to invest in a permanent option, but still want to enjoy most of the benefits of going fully solar.

Full-Service Solar Companies

A full-service solar company is the most common and often preferred option for homeowners looking to install a full solar system. Full-service companies help you design your array, provide all of the equipment, and do the installation. They often provide warranties and service for the life of the system. This is the best option for those who prefer to rely on professionals for their solar conversion.

None of these categories is completely exclusive. Some manufacturers are also full service, such as Tesla. Sometimes you will find dealers who also offer financing and some installers will help you design your array. Every company is different, so it is a good idea to shop around a bit and learn about all your local options before settling on your final choice.

How To Find Solar Companies Near Me

Now that you know what you’re looking for, let’s talk about how to find it. If you’re like most of us, your first impulse may be to go to your favorite search engine, type in solar companies near me and see what comes up, but this may not be the best choice. A quick Google search brings up about 700 million results with the first page of options being paid advertisements. Google is great for many things, but in this case, it may be better to take a different approach. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Check The Directory

First of all, you can check that directory that we mentioned earlier. Our directory is well organized and much easier to navigate than 700 million options, plus you won’t have to worry about any paid ads. Simply click on your state, then choose the city closest to you and you’ll instantly have a list of local installers.

Ask a Friend Or Neighbor

In the age of the internet, many of us have gotten out of the habit of asking around for recommendations, but this can be one of the best ways to find what you need. With the drastic increase in solar energy use over the last decade, there is a good chance that you know someone who uses solar. Why not ask them which company they used and whether they would recommend them. This will gain you some useful inside information about what going solar is really like.

Many businesses are choosing to switch to solar as well. Next time you visit a business that has solar panels, why not ask which solar company they chose? Asking around may feel a bit odd at first, but you’ll probably find that most solar enthusiasts are just that, enthusiastic! And they will be happy to share information and recommendations with their fellow solar fans.

Reading customer reviews online can also be helpful. Don’t just look at the glowing reviews, look for negative ratings as well. Companies that only display their highest reviews may be hiding something. A better reflection of the quality of their customer service can be seen in how they respond to negative reviews. Did they respond professionally and try to resolve the issue or did they coldly respond with legal jargon? Or, worse yet, not respond at all? No one is perfect and every company is bound to have some issues. The way they deal with those issues will show you whether this is a company you want to work with or not.

Look Local

Last, but not least, look around. New solar companies are popping up everywhere, there may even be one in your hometown that you haven’t noticed yet. If they are new or simply a smaller business, they may not have an online presence yet, but that does not mean that you should write them off right away. Take the time to stop in and see what options they have, you may be surprised by what you find.

Benefits Of Choosing A Local Solar Company

Speaking of doing business locally, let’s talk about some of the benefits of choosing a local installer over a nationwide solar company. This is not to say that big businesses are bad or that they offer lower quality products, there are simply a few benefits that you are more likely to find with local companies than larger ones.

Local Knowledge

The best initial benefit is that local companies will have a better understanding of your area and what type of array is likely to work best for you. Depending on where you live, your panels may need to be angled or you may need adjustable brackets in order to reap the full benefits throughout the year. Local installers will already have this information which will save time and help you avoid costly installation mistakes.

Faster Installation

Many of the smaller companies have a smaller workload meaning they can start your installation sooner. This isn’t always the case, since more and more people are looking to go solar, but quite often you will find that local companies prioritize their customers more, leading to faster service.

Better Service

Speaking of service, local companies offer better service as well, both initially and over the long run. You don’t have to look through many online reviews to see that the big three, Tesla, Sunrun, and Vivint Solar, all suffer from a lack of quality customer service. This is probably due mainly to their size and workload.

Local companies have more time for quality service, plus they have a reputation to protect. They are more likely to take pride in their work because it will reflect directly on their business rather than a huge corporation.

Lower Installation Costs

This may come as a surprise, but many smaller solar installers offer better prices than big name companies. They can be as much as 10% less expensive! If you’re familiar with the cost of a full installation, you know that saving 10% is a big deal. Local companies do not have as much infrastructure and advertising to support, so they can offer lower costs. They also won’t have to travel as far to get to you which saves both time and money, a difference that will be reflected in the final price tag.

Proximity

Last, but not least, choosing local is beneficial because of the proximity of the company. This may not be too important during installation, but when it comes to service needs down the road, having a quality solar technician nearby can be a lifesaver.

Most solar systems are designed to last approximately 30 years with very little maintenance. In general, they only require occasional cleaning, but sometimes mother nature has other ideas. If you live in an area that experiences extreme weather patterns, such as heavy snow, gale-force winds, or tornados, you may find that your system needs repairs. This is where relying on a local company can make the difference between your system being down for a couple of days or having it out of commission for weeks.

How To Choose a Solar Company

Once you have chosen which companies you would like to consider, it’s time to get some quotes. Most solar installers will give free estimates, so don’t be shy. Get at least a few quotes before making your final choice.

Although more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better, be mindful that the lowest quote might not be the best choice either. Here are a few things to consider when going over your quotes:

• The panel manufacturer. The best installer in the world won’t be able to improve the manufacturing, so make sure the company you choose uses good quality panels. They may cost more at first but it will be worth it in the long run.
• Warranties and Future Service. Most solar panels are guaranteed through the manufacturer for 25 to 30 years, but the rest of the system may not be. Read the fine print to see how much of the system would be covered in case of a product or installation failure. Also, look into any offers they have for future service or system updates.
• License and Inspection Fees Every city and state has different permits you will need to legally operate your solar system. These requirements can include building permits, inspection fees, and more. Your installer, if they are local, should be very familiar with what you will need. Sometimes these fees will be included in the quote and sometimes they won’t. If they are not included, your installer should at least be able to tell you what they are so you can be prepared for the additional expense.
• Insurance. Before choosing a company make sure they have both liability and workers’ compensation insurance. The liability insurance will protect you if any damage to your home occurs as a result of the installation. The workers’ compensation insurance will cover the workers if any accidents should occur. Most reputable companies will have this insurance for every contracting job, if the company you’re looking at does not have this, you may want to look elsewhere.
• The System Design. Don’t wait until you choose a company to look at the system design. Remember that the design will include more than just where the panels are on your roof, it will include where all the wiring is as well as where your energy bank and/or meters will be. This may seem a bit superficial, but this is going to be part of your home for a very long time. It may be worth paying a little extra for the company that is going to carefully design your system to be aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.

As you can guess, every company is a little different, so you can expect differences in cost, but if a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. This is a substantial investment, so be sure to read that fine print.

Bottom Line

Switching to solar is an exciting endeavor, but it is also an important decision that should not be taken lightly. You should take your time and weigh your options. Thankfully, finding the right solar company for you does not have to be a huge ordeal. There are loads of resources out there that can help make your choice easier. With the help of our directory and everything that you’ve learned here, you should be ready to start your solar journey today.

The post Best Solar Companies Near Me appeared first on EarthTechling.

We know that for most people, the most obvious drawback is the initial cost. Purchasing a full solar system is a big commitment, but in a state where 90% of the energy consumed is electricity, solar is a worthwhile investment. Not only is it better for the environment, but it is also better for your budget.

Florida residents enjoy well over the national average of sunny days each year as well as lower solar installation costs, making solar energy an obvious choice. Don’t believe us? Let’s check out the numbers.

The Cost of Solar In Florida

Before we go too far, let’s just state the obvious. Solar technology is just like everything else. The price and the quality can vary depending on where you live, the product manufacturer, and the installer. We’re going to stick to averages for this article, so do not be surprised if the numbers differ slightly from those you’ve found through other sources. For a slightly more personalized estimate, try our solar cost calculator. For a truly personalized estimate, you should talk to your local solar system installer. Okay, let’s get started.

The average cost for a solar installation in Florida is around $2.62 per watt. This means that a 10kW system would cost approximately $26,000. This cost would typically include the panels, wiring, mounting equipment, and labor for installation. There are a few more elements that can impact the cost, for more details check out this article.

Based on the average electricity usage in Florida, you would need an 8kW to 10kW system to switch exclusively to solar. Everyone’s needs differ, so here is a chart showing the average cost of solar systems in different sizes, just to give you an idea of what to expect.

You do not have to install a full system right from the start. You can choose to install a smaller system and then expand as your budget allows. Not all solar systems are easily expandable, so make sure you discuss this plan with your installer before making any purchases. A good installer will help you design your system accordingly so you can avoid any costly problems when it comes time to upgrade.

Solar Incentives In Florida

Now that you have seen the worst of it, you can relax and recover from the sticker shock, there is good news ahead! These prices are based on the average cost without any incentives or rebates.

Although Florida does not have any state-wide solar rebates, there are a few perks.

First of all, Florida is a net metering state. Net metering is a program that allows you to connect your solar system to the grid and essentially sell any extra electricity that your system generates back to the electricity company. Florida is one of the few states where you can earn the full retail price per kWh. With over 270 sunny days per year, there is a very good chance that your system will be producing extra electricity, especially if you’re already energy-conscious.

Secondly, Florida offers two solar tax exemptions. Residential solar installations are exempt from sales tax, so there is a 6% savings right off the top. Florida also offers a property tax exemption for solar systems, so you do not have to worry about your property taxes going up after you switch to solar. This is good news considering a full solar system can increase your home’s value by up to 4%.

Federal Tax Credit
If you have been researching solar power in the United States for any amount of time, you have probably heard of the Solar Investment Tax Credit. This credit allows you to deduct 26% of your installation cost from your federal taxes. This credit is not permanent though, it will decrease to 22% in 2023, so now is definitely a good time to take the leap and go solar.

The Cost Of Electricity In Florida

According to the Energy Information Administration, the average cost of electricity in Florida as of August 2021 is 11.97 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh), which is somewhat lower than the national average. Unfortunately, Floridians use nearly 30% more electricity per day than the national average meaning that electricity bills are still somewhat high.

The majority of the electricity used in the Sunshine State is used for appliances and electronics followed closely by air conditioning. Switching to more energy-efficient appliances can decrease your monthly bill, but you can still expect to spend about $1,500 to $1,700 a year on electricity.

When Will Your Solar System Start Paying Off?

Let’s go back to the cheerful numbers, shall we? It is time to discuss peak sunlight hours. Peak sunlight hours are exactly what they sound like, they are the hours throughout the day during which your panels will receive the most direct sunlight. As you can imagine, these hours differ by location and change throughout the year. Lucky for you, Florida’s peak sunlight hours are well above average.

During the summer, you can expect to get about 6.16 hours of peak sunshine per day. In the winter, this drops to 5.26 hours, which is still 1.26 hours about the national average. So what does this mean for your solar system? Simply put, more sun means more energy and more energy means more electricity and a shorter payoff period for your solar system.

Here is another chart, this time showing how long it should take to pay off your solar system. Keep in mind that these are averages, based on premium conditions (5.71 hours of peak sunlight per day), but these estimates are close enough to give you a general idea of what to expect.

As you can see, it will take approximately 8 to 10 years for your solar system to pay for itself based on the current cost of electricity. A decade may seem like a long time, but when that is compared to how long the typical solar system is designed to last, 10 years doesn’t seem like long at all.

Most solar panel manufacturers guarantee their panels for 25 to 30 years. They do this because the panels are built to function at peak efficiency for a minimum of 25 to 30 years. After that time has passed, the system will still produce electricity simply at a lower efficiency rate. This means that with a well-maintained solar system, you will be enjoying clean energy for far longer than 30 years, all the while saving you money on your utility bills.

How Much Money Will You Save In The Long Run?

Even if you only count the first 20 to 22 years after your system has paid for itself, you are looking to save approximately $30,000 to $35,000 in electricity costs and that’s only if the cost of electricity does not increase over that time period.

With more rebates and incentives popping up all the time, you may earn your money back even sooner than expected and be able to enjoy even more savings. And don’t forget all the money you will continue to save after that initial 30 years when you still don’t have to worry about paying for electricity.

Is Solar Worth It In Florida?

There is certainly no doubt that solar is worth the investment in Florida! Florida has everything you need for perfect solar system conditions: lots of sunshine, low installation costs, and a variety of solar incentives, who could ask for more?

Check out our Green Home and Green Living pages for ideas on how you can try solar energy without the big commitment. Even small changes, such as using solar to charge your electronic devices, can make a big impact in the long run. You’ll never go wrong when you choose clean, earth-friendly solar energy.

The post Are Solar Panels Worth It In Florida? appeared first on EarthTechling.

If you’re reading this, you probably already know how beneficial solar power can be, both for the environment and your wallet, but you still have questions. Not to worry, we know that a full solar system is a big investment. We also know that deciding to take the plunge is a lot easier if you know what to expect when you get there. All the prices in this article are just estimates, but they can at least give you a general idea of the cost so you’re not taken by surprise when you get a true estimate.

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost In Texas?

The average cost of a solar system in Texas is $2.71/W. This is slightly above the national average, but not the highest in the country. Depending on where you are in Texas, you can expect a 5W system to cost approximately $11,000 to $16,000.

Of course if you need a bigger system, you can expect to pay more for the system as a whole, but you may get a better deal overall. The price per solar panel can be a bit lower on larger systems, lowering the cost per watt, because the installer can purchase them in bulk. This depends on your installer and the brand of panels they use, but it is certainly worth asking about before making your final decision.

If you are interested in a bigger solar system, here are some prices based on the state average:

Those numbers may seem a bit steep, but there is a federal tax credit that will help offset that original price tag. Currently, this tax credit allows you to deduct 26% of the installation costs from your taxes. This can make a huge difference, especially when it comes to the larger systems. Check out the prices after the tax credit:

That 26% makes a big difference, doesn’t it? It allows you to get a 10kW system for less than the original cost of an 8kW system. The credit will be in place until the end of 2022 when it drops down to 22% for 2023, so don’t wait too long.

Don’t see the size you’re looking for? Check out our quick solar cost calculator for a closer estimate.

What Can Affect The Price of A Solar Installation?

Solar technology has improved a lot over the last decade. Not only has solar panel efficiency improved, but the manufacturing process has improved as well. This means better products at better prices. That being said, solar systems are made of much more than just solar panels and each element can affect the price.

The main items included in a full system are: panels, mounting frames or brackets, wiring, inverter, charge controller, and a solar battery bank. A good installer will go over all the details with you so you know how each element affects the price.

Many cities require installation permits and inspections before you can use your system, which can also impact the final cost. The installer should know about these as well, but it never hurts to do a bit of independent research beforehand. A quick Google search or a call to city hall should provide the information you need.

As you can probably guess, there are a few more things that could add to or even decrease the price of your solar installation. Here are a few of the most common factors:

How Much Electricity Will You Need?

If you have been considering going solar for a while, you may already know how much electricity you need. If you don’t already know, there is a simple way to find out. All you need is your last 12 electricity bills and a calculator.

Simply add up the total amount of electricity that you’ve used over the last year and then divide that by twelve. That will give you your average monthly total which will in turn determine what size system you need. A typical 10kW system produces an average of 1,200kW of power per month which is slightly higher than the average electricity usage per Texan household.

Not everyone can afford a solar system big enough to cover 100% of their electricity needs, but that is no reason to hold off. You can always install a smaller system now and add on later. Just remember to discuss this with your installer from the very beginning so they can plan accordingly and help you determine the best plan for you and your home.

What Type Of Panels Do You Want?

Did you know that there are multiple types of solar panels? Not only are there different sizes and manufacturers, but there are also different kinds. The two main kinds of solar panel are polycrystalline and monocrystalline. Polycrystalline panels are a slightly older type that can be less efficient. Monocrystalline panels are a newer version that is more efficient, but also more expensive. You may have also heard about thin-film panels, but these are currently the least efficient and are not typically used for larger systems.

Most solar panel installers will have at least a couple options to choose from and should be able to give you the details concerning which type will be better for your location.

Check Out The Incentives!

The incentives throughout Texas vary depending on your location, but there are a few good ones. Austin Energy, CPS Energy, and Guadalupe Valley Electric Cooperative all offer rebates and incentives for consumers who choose solar. Most places in Texas also allow net metering, so you could even earn credit with the electric company for any extra energy your system produces.

Texas also has the property tax exemption for homeowners who choose solar. Although installing a solar system could raise the value of your home by up to 4.1%, your property taxes will not increase because of that added value.

And, of course, don’t forget about that 26% federal tax credit! All of these incentives and rebates combined could quickly change your dream of having solar into an affordable reality.

Will I Truly Save Money By Switching To Solar?

There is a reason that Texas is the 2nd highest state in the country for solar use. All those extra sunny days translate to a lot of free, clean energy to power your home. The initial cost may be a slight setback, but with the incentives and extra sunshine, your system can pay for itself in as little as 7 to 9 years. These systems are designed to work at peak efficiency for 25 to 30 years, leaving you to enjoy that free energy for many years after the system is paid off.

The Cost of Solar Panels In Texas

Switching to solar is always a good idea, but it is an especially good idea in Texas. Texas is quickly becoming one of the greenest states in the nation with many residents enjoying electricity from both solar systems and wind farms. Knowing this, it is easy to see why there are so many great incentives for making the switch.

The cost of installing solar in Texas can quickly be offset by the amount of power your system is sure to produce from all that extra sunshine. If you want to go solar, but aren’t quite ready to install a full system, why not try solar in smaller ways? Check out more of our articles to learn about all the ways that you can start using solar power today.

The post How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Texas appeared first on EarthTechling.

This sounds great for the environment, but what does it mean for you? Is investing in a solar system really worth it? The short answer is: Yes! No matter where you live, modern solar technology is nearly guaranteed to be worth the investment. If you live in California or are planning on moving there, then solar is a must!

Don’t just take our word for it, let’s crunch some numbers so you can see that solar energy is a quality investment. The main factors that we need to examine are the cost of solar and the cost of electricity and how one can offset the other.

The Cost of Solar In California

Let’s start by taking a quick look at the cost of solar in California. Because California is such a large and diverse state, the cost of a solar system can vary quite a bit from city to city. For the purposes of this article, we’re just going to focus on averages, but if you would like an estimate that is a little closer to your specific needs, check out our solar cost calculator here.

The average cost for solar in California is currently resting at $2.85 per watt. Based on the average electricity usage in California, most homeowners would need a 5kW to 8kW system to produce enough energy to power their home completely. This means that you can expect to spend somewhere between $14,000 and $23,000 for a full installation.

Check out this chart to see how the different size systems measure up in terms of cost.

All the prices listed here are based on the average cost, so they will vary by company and location, but you can see that this is quite an investment. Thankfully, there are a couple of things that can help to offset the cost from the very beginning.

California’s Solar Incentives

California has some of the best solar incentives in the country. Not only do they offer state-wide net metering, but many cities and towns offer regional rebates and unique incentives for those who choose to invest in solar.

If you’re not familiar with net metering, this is the process by which you can earn credit with the electric company for the extra energy your system produces. Depending on your electricity provider, you can earn close to the retail value for every extra kWh your system generates above what you use. Unfortunately, some new policies have been implemented over the last year to lower how much you can earn on net metering in California, but there is still the potential to earn at least a little extra.

The federal government is also encouraging residents to install solar with the Investment Tax Credit. This credit allows you to deduct 26% of your installation costs off of your taxes. How many other home improvements come with a 26% return on investment in the first year? Not many.

The Cost Of Electricity in California

According to the Energy Information Administration, the average cost of electricity in California as of June 2021 was 23.11 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). Although the cost of electricity in California is nearly double the national average, Californians use significantly less electricity each month resulting in mostly average to lower than average electricity bills.

The average residential home in California uses approximately 532kWh per month. This means that the average electricity bill ranges around $122 per month. This may not sound quite right for your home, but remember we’re just working with averages here. At $122 per month, the typical California resident can expect to pay about $1,475 a year for electricity.

When Will You See The Benefits of Solar?

Now it is time to put these numbers together and see what kind of timeframe you can expect before you start to truly reap the financial benefits of this investment. Keep in mind that there are several factors at play that can impact the exact amount of time this can take, but this should give you a general idea.

As you can see, it will take approximately 6 years for your system to generate enough energy to pay for itself. If for some reason you choose not to take advantage of the federal tax credit it would take closer to 8 years to make your money back. You may be thinking that that is a substantial amount of time, but if you consider the typical lifespan of a solar system, it is a relatively short amount of time.

Most solar systems are designed to work at peak efficiency for 25 to 30 years. Many companies guarantee their systems to last at least that long. After the 30 years are up, the system will start to lose efficiency, but not immediately and typically at a very slow rate.

How Much Money Will I Save?

Since every system is different and the cost of electricity fluctuates, we can’t tell you exactly how much money you can save. However, we can give you a general idea. If we base the amount on the current average price of electricity you could be looking at a savings of $35,400 over the 24 years after you’ve made back the cost of the system. This amount does not include any amounts that you may save or earn through net metering or energy storage.

This also does not include any amounts that you would still be saving after the initial 30 years of peak efficiency expire. You can always work with your installer to replace solar panels as they wear out so you don’t have to worry about losing efficiency as quickly which will help you save even more.

Is Solar Worth It In California?

With a well-maintained solar system, you could be looking at basically free electricity for decades as long as the sun is shining. Since we all know that sunshine is a guarantee in the Golden State, you can rest assured that solar is absolutely worth the investment for anyone who lives in California.

If a full solar system is a bit out of your reach right now, you can always start using solar power in smaller ways. You can easily do everything from charging your laptop to keeping your drinks cool all with the power of clean, free solar power. Check out our Green Living section for even more ideas.

The post Are Solar Panels Worth It In California? appeared first on EarthTechling.

The obvious first question to ask when considering solar panel installation is: How much will it cost? That is what we are here to find out! We’re going to provide you with some estimates as well as some general information that will help you overcome any hesitancy you have about switching to solar.

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost In California?

The average cost of installing solar power in California is $2.85 per watt. That comes out to approximately $14,250 for an average-sized solar system. When you consider the cost of electricity in many California cities, you can see how this would be a good investment. Not sure yet? Keep reading.

The cost of a full solar system can vary, depending on a wide range of factors, but here is a simple overview of the average cost of a few different sizes of solar installations.

There is also a Federal Investment Tax Credit for installing solar panels. This credit deducts 26% of the installation cost from your taxes, helping to ease that initial cost. This is what the prices would look like after the tax credit:

Again, these are just estimates, but you can see that the tax credit makes a substantial difference, especially as you get into the larger systems. If the system size you’re looking for isn’t on this list, check out our solar panel cost calculator for a quick estimate.

What Can Affect The Price of A Solar Installation?

If you’re not familiar with the ins and outs of home solar systems, you may be surprised by how much goes into them. A quality system will include solar panels and mounting frames, all required wiring, an inverter, a charge controller, and a solar battery bank.

You may also have to purchase installation permits as well as have an official inspection completed before you are able to install and use your solar system. Be sure to discuss any required permits or inspections with your installer in advance so you’re not taken by surprise.

Here are a few more factors that can affect the cost of your solar installation:

How Much Electricity Will You Need Your System To Produce?

The most important thing to know is how much power you actually need and how much of that power you want your solar system to provide.

You know what this means, it’s time to figure out how much electricity you use, so dig out those electricity bills. Preferably, you should collect the bills from the last twelve months, add up all the totals, and divide that number by twelve to obtain your monthly average. If you don’t keep your bill statements, or you’re earth-friendly and paperless, you should be able to get copies either through the electric company or their website.

Now that you have your average, decide how much of that average you would like to replace with solar. Of course, we all want to say 100%, but sometimes that isn’t feasible. Not to worry, you can install a smaller system now and add to it later, just make sure you discuss this with your installer before you start so they can plan for future system expansion.

What Type Of Panels Do You Want?

For all the solar newbies out there, this may be a challenging question. Don’t stress, your installer will be able to help you find the right type of panels for you. If you’re still wondering about different types, here’s a quick overview.

There are two main types of solar panels: polycrystalline and monocrystalline. Polycrystalline panels are less expensive because they are slightly older technology. Unfortunately, they are also less efficient. There are times when polycrystalline panels may work better for you, but nowadays, most people choose monocrystalline. Monocrystalline panels may be a bit more expensive, but they make up for that with increased efficiency.

The manufacturer of your solar panels could also affect the cost of your system. Just like everything else, bigger names often come with bigger price tags. In the same turn, you get what you pay for, so try to find a balance. Many solar installers will have a few options to choose from, just be cautious.

Keep in mind that if the price is surprisingly high or oddly low, you may want to get a second opinion. You don’t want to overpay, but you don’t want to end up with a low-quality system either. Look for something that falls close to the state average and you should be good to go.

Check Out The Incentives!

The 26% Federal Incentive Tax Credit is great, but why stop there? Like we said earlier, California is all about green energy so it’s no surprise that they would offer more solar power incentives than most states. They offer a number of incentives that can help you pay for your solar system if you are low income.

They also offer a property tax exemption for your solar system. This means that your property taxes won’t go up even though the value of your home could go up as much as 4.1% when you install solar.

Will I Truly Save Money By Switching To Solar?

Now to answer the real question, will you truly save money when you switch to solar?

Yes, yes you will.

California is the perfect state for solar panels, with over 75% of the year consisting of sunny days. More sunny days equals more solar energy. You may have noticed that solar installations are a bit more expensive in California than in other states, but they pay for themselves just as quickly.

These systems are designed to last 25 to 30 years at pique efficiency, with the average system paying for itself in approximately 6 to 7 years. That leaves you with 18 to 24 years of basically free electricity. If you’re lucky enough to live in an area that allows net metering, you could potentially even make money from your solar system.

Not ready to invest in a full solar system? Don’t worry, there are all kinds of ways that you can take advantage of free, clean solar power. You can use solar power to light your patio, keep cool, and even charge your phone. Check out some of our other reviews for more earth-friendly ideas.

The Cost of Solar Panels In California

The cost of solar panel installation in California is slightly above the nationwide average, but that is understandable. The cost of living is higher as is the minimum wage, plus solar power is much more popular in California which could also contribute to the cost.

No matter the cause of the slightly higher price tag, you shouldn’t let it dissuade you from choosing solar. Solar power technology has improved immensely over the last 10 years making a solar system a good choice no matter where you live, but it is an especially good investment for those who live in sunny California.

The post How Much Do Solar Panels Cost In California? appeared first on EarthTechling.

In a state literally known for being full of sunshine, you would think that solar power would be an obvious choice. That’s certainly what we think! If you’re considering it for your home, then you’re likely wondering about the initial cost. Well, we’ve crunched some numbers and are here to give you a general idea of what to expect when you decide to go solar.

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost In Florida?

The average cost of installing solar power in Florida is $2.62 per watt. That comes out to approximately $13,000 for an average-sized installation. That may seem like a lot at first glance, but let’s look into a few more details before you decide whether or not solar is for you.

As you can most likely guess, the cost of a full solar system (which would include solar panels, wiring, and power storage) will differ depending on the size. Here is a simple chart to give you an idea of how size affects the price.

You should also keep in mind that there is a Federal Investment Tax Credit for installing solar. This allows you to deduct 26% of the installation cost from your taxes, returning a hefty sum to your wallet. This is what the prices would look like after that tax credit:

These are just estimates, but as you can see, that tax credit helps a lot. If you’re looking for an average price on a different size system, check out our easy-to-use solar calculator.

What Can Affect The Price of A Solar Installation?

Size isn’t the only factor to consider when you’re trying to figure out the cost of solar panels in Florida. Your home solar system will require a lot of wiring, an inverter, power storage, and possibly more.

Don’t forget that you may also need installation permits through your town or city before you can finish your installation. Some cities also require you to have your solar system inspected before use, which can also add to the overall cost.

Here are a few more things that affect the cost of your solar installation:

How Much Of Your Power Usage Do You Want To Cover With Solar Energy?

The most important thing to know from the beginning is how much power you actually need. Knowing this in advance will make it much easier for you to get an accurate estimate on the installation cost.

The simplest way to determine what you need is to find out how much power you use each month. Preferably, you should pull out your electric bills from the last twelve months and figure out your monthly average. If you don’t keep your bill statements, or you’re earth-friendly and go paperless, you should be able to get copies either through the electric company or their website.

Once you know how much power you use each month, it’s time to decide how much of that you would like to replace with solar. In an ideal world we would all choose 100%, but sometimes that simply isn’t possible. If you can’t afford to install a big enough system right away, talk to a professional installer about putting in a system that could be expanded later.

Even if you start by only replacing some of your energy usage with solar, every little bit helps. Not only is it better for the environment, but it is better for your wallet as well.

What Type Of Panels Do You Want?

This might not be a question that you can answer right off hand, but here is a little information that may help you decide.

There are two main types of solar panels: polycrystalline and monocrystalline. Polycrystalline panels have been around longer and are a bit less expensive. Unfortunately, they are also less efficient. There are a few particular situations where polycrystalline panels may be better, but nowadays, most people go for monocrystalline. Monocrystalline panels may be a bit more expensive, but they make up for that with increased efficiency.

The brand of your panels could affect the price of installation as well. Like all products, solar panels can differ significantly by manufacturer. If an installer gives you a price quote that is drastically below average, you may want to check the brand of panels they plan on using. The brand of the inverter and battery bank may be worth a look as well. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Check Out The Incentives!

We already talked about the Federal tax credit, but don’t forget, there are state incentives as well. Solar panels are exempt from sales tax in Florida, so no worries about the extra charges on the bottom of the bill. Not only that, but you can also get a tax cut on your property taxes for having solar. You’ll be saving money all the time.

Will I Truly Save Money By Switching To Solar?

All these elements are good to think about and remember, but we’re guessing that the real question you want to ask is, “Will solar help me save money?” The answer is: yes!

Most solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years and they often pay for themselves within the first few years. The amount of time it will take for your system to pay for itself depends on the size of the system and how much power you use, but even if it takes eight to ten years to pay for itself, that still leaves you with 20 years of completely free electricity.

Many Florida cities get an average of 230 to 270 days of sunshine each year. That is an incredible amount compared to the US national average of 205 days of sunshine each year. This, combined with the state incentives, makes Florida the perfect state for solar living.

If you’re not sure about investing in a full solar system yet, you can still take advantage of free, clean solar energy by using it to charge your devices or power your lawn decorations. If you need more ideas, check out a few of our reviews about our favorite solar-powered products.

The Cost of Solar Panels In Florida

Even though Florida is the ideal place for solar power use, the price of solar panel installation is below the national average. At $2.62/W, Florida falls at $0.14/W below the national average. Why is that? It’s hard to say. But what we can say is that investing in a solar system for your Florida home is a sure bet.

To get a general estimate of the solar panel cost in Florida you can use our solar panel cost calculator. For a more accurate and detailed estimate, you should ask a professional. Although it may be tempting to choose a big name company for installation, you may want to rethink that decision.

Nationwide solar installation companies may have slightly better prices, but a quick look through their customer reviews shows that their customer service is not always top-notch. Instead, choose a smaller, local business that will be able to provide you with the one-on-one assistance that you need throughout the installation process. They will also be more readily available to help you maintain your system throughout its 30-year lifespan.

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All of the information that we are going to provide you below about the best solar panels is nice to know, but putting it to use is another matter. For example, how do you go about finding the right solar panels for your house? Can you just tell your solar installer what panels to buy? Do you even have a say?

First off, most homeowners don’t choose their solar panels outright. Instead, most installers have a handful of solar panels for customers to choose from. Aesthetics, price, and efficiency all play into the decision as to which style will be best for you. And while not every installer will have 8 different panels available, even the smallest local company should have at least a standard option and a premium, high-efficiency option.

When you get free estimates from local installers, they will look over your electricity bills as well as your roof and discuss the system size and panel type that would meet your needs best. More often than not, a standard-efficiency solar panel will do just fine. However, if you are short on space, they might recommend a premium solar panel if you don’t want your energy production to suffer. Or if you live in an area with heavy snow, they might recommend a more durable style.

Remember, reputable solar panel installers should be there to help you make the most cost-efficient choice. They know the industry and will be a valuable resource as you explore getting your property set up for solar power.

Your solar panel installer might recommend one of the best solar panels that we review below, or they might have other recommendations for your specific home. Either way, just remember your solar installation is an investment that is guaranteed to save you money in the long run. You can easily get free estimates and more information about the best solar panels for your home at UnderstandSolarPower.

Should You Buy The Best Solar Panels?

Now that we have that out of the way lets discuss why solar power is one of the best ways to power your home. Not only is it a clean and eco-friendly form of energy, but it’s also free to use! If this sounds like something you’re interested in, you’ve come to the right place. In order to take advantage of this clean, free energy you’ll need to find the best solar panels for your home. You may think that the least expensive panels are the best choice, but that is not always the case. There are certain situations where a specialized panel, at a higher cost, might be the best option for you.

Why? There are many reasons that you may not want to go with the cheapest option, but here are a few factors to consider…

• You might need extremely efficient solar panels if you have limited roof space or high energy consumption.
• You might need the most durable solar panel if you live in an area known for inclement weather such as heavy snow or wind.
• You may want the most environmentally friendly option available.
• Or maybe you just want the latest and greatest solar panel on the market today.

Whatever your need is, do not worry! We’re here to help you go green in a way that best fits your style. In this article, you’ll find reviews of the best solar panel companies in 2021 for each of the categories below. We also provided some helpful tips to help you decide what solar panel option is the best choice for your home and energy needs. First, let’s start with a little helpful information about solar panels and solar energy.

The best solar panels balance quality and cost

For most homeowners, the solar panels that find a good balance between quality and cost are what you should be looking for. By this we mean:

• Decent efficiency – No, we are not looking for the most efficient solar panel on the market today, like Sunpower’s excellent X-Series. Instead, we are looking for around 17% to 18% efficiency. While these solar panels produce about 20% less electricity than their premium brethren, the much lower price makes them a more cost-effective option.
• Reputable company– The solar industry is notoriously unpredictable. You want to make sure your solar panel manufacturer is going to be here for the long haul. The top solar panel manufacturers sport a solid history (10+ years of solar panel production) and a respected name from industry insiders. Your installer can give you the skinny on which manufacturers to trust.
• Competitive price– This goes without saying. Exactly how much you pay for your panels depends on your installer and your area. In a report, NREL noted that most nationwide solar installers can source solar panels at $0.65/watt, so if you are spending more than $180 or so for a 275-watt solar panel, be sure to ask your installers about the costs. Smaller, local installers cannot usually buy in bulk like large companies can so their prices increase by about 20%. Keep that in mind while shopping around.
• Good warranty– Yes, the premium panels have incredibly long-term warranties of 25 years, but you are also paying for them. Standard panels typically see product warranties between 10 to 12 years and production guarantees of 80% to 83% after 25 years. Anything under that is a red flag.

The Importance of Solar Panel Efficiency

Before we get into the details of each of the solar panel companies on our list we should discuss efficiency.

We live in a world where technology is constantly improving and the solar industry is no different. Manufacturers are constantly putting out new, cutting-edge solar panels that pump out shocking amounts of energy. Although the newest and most advanced models may seem appealing, keep in mind that the newest models usually come with larger price tags. This is one of the reasons why doing a bit of research before making your purchase is so important. You may find that a slightly more established model will be more beneficial to you than spending extra just to have the latest and greatest.

There are some situations when spending a little extra is beneficial. For example, if your roof is very small and you don’t have the space to install a lot of panels, choosing high-efficiency panels would be a better choice. Another situation where these higher-cost panels may be a better choice would be if you have a particularly high level of energy use. For example, if you’re trying to power a business or if you simply have a lot of electric-powered items in your home, you may have to go with high-efficiency panels to produce enough energy.

Now on to our top picks for the best solar panels for 2021. Remember, before making any purchases you should get quotes from a solar panel installer to ensure that the panels are available and right for your home.

The Top 5 Best Solar Panels for 2021

• Trina
• Sunpower
• Canadian Solar
• Panasonic
  
• Mission Solar
  

Read on to learn more about each of the companies on our list of the best solar panels for home use in 2021 to find the perfect option for your home.

Trina – Best Solar Panel Overall

Trina Solar is a mainstay in the solar panel industry. Their products are well-known for quality, durability, and affordability. They find a great balance between quality and cost, which is why they are our top pick for the best solar panel overall.

Trina was founded in 1997 and was one of China’s first companies dedicated to solar. Fast forward to today and they have over 15,000 employees and have shipped a cumulative 32 GW of solar panels.

They manufacture both mono and polycrystalline solar panels, with their ALLMAX series directed towards homeowners. With efficiency from 17.4% to 19.1% (depending on the cell type), Trina’s panels are on the medium to high side compared to other similar “standard” solar panels on the market.

Trina’s solar panels come with a 10-year parts warranty as well as a guarantee that their panels will produce 80% of the nameplate power in the 25th year of operation – both in line with other solar panels of similar cost.

Sunpower – Most Environmentally Friendly Solar Panel

You are probably wondering how one solar panel could be more environmentally friendly than another. After all, don’t they all create electricity with zero pollution using renewable energy?

While that is all true, not all the materials used in solar panels are renewable. They use glass, aluminum, silicon, copper, and rare earth metals to convert sunlight into electricity. And while today’s solar panels are generally expected to last 25+ years, forward-thinking manufacturers are already discussing the issue of how to properly dispose of the millions of solar panels currently in use.

Premium solar panel manufacturer Sunpower is already tackling this issue and has become the first solar manufacturer to become Cradle to Cradle Certified Silver. This certification ensures solar panel materials are sourced in a manner that is safe for the environment and people, that products are manufactured with responsible, sustainable methods and recycled properly at the end of their life cycle.

Both Sunpower’s E-Series and X-Series panels are Cradle to Cradle Certified Silver, and if you’re looking for premium solar panels, you can’t get better than Sunpower’s X-Series solar panels. These are the creme de la creme of solar panels.

First off, at 22.8% efficiency, they are officially the most efficient residential solar panel on the market today. This gives you more energy production per square foot on your roof, meaning fewer panels and less space needed – perfect for small, compact roofs.
Secondly, their solar panels are built with a solid copper back, so their electrical connections can withstand years of extreme weather without damage.

Lastly, Sunpower backs up these panels with a 25-year product warranty as well as a 25-year – 92% production guarantee – possibly the highest in the entire industry.

All these features do add up, so you can expect to pay quite a bit more for Sunpower solar panels. Still, they’re a high-quality product from a company that takes steps to keep our planet cleaner. That is a win-win for everyone. Unfortunately, every story has two sides, and Sunpower is actually owned by French company Total, one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world, so all these environmental benefits might just be canceled out by its parent company’s business. Read more about them in our in-depth Sunpower review.

Canadian Solar – Best Solar Panel for Inclement Weather

If you are looking for solar panels that can handle some serious weather but won’t break the bank, check out Canadian Solar panels.

Solar panels are tough pieces of equipment. And since they are left on your roof 24/7 for decades, they have to be. Your solar panels need to handle extreme heat, extreme cold, hail, snow, rain, dust, and anything else mother nature can throw at them. All solar panels go through rigorous testing to make sure they are up to the task, but some companies take their solar panels to the next level, manufacturing some truly Herculean panels.

All Canadian Solar’s residential solar panels can handle over 10% more snow load than almost all other panels, and just under 70% more wind load. That’s on par with or more than Sunpower’s stats for wind and snow load, at a much lower price.
Similar to other standard panels, Canadian Solar’s residential panels are around 17% efficient and come with a 10-year product warranty and 25-year – 80.7% production guarantee. So if you are worried about snow and high winds, but don’t want to spend the extra money on premium panels, then Canadian Solar certainly fits the bill.

Panasonic – Best Premium Solar Panel

What exactly is a premium solar panel, you ask? Premium solar panels generally offer:

• Higher than average efficiency typically between 19% and 22%
• Beefier components built to handle extreme weather
• Better warranties generally a 25-year product warranty (as opposed to 10-12 years for ‘standard’ panel) and a 25-year production guarantee around 87% or so

Of course, with these premium components, premium solar panels also command higher price tags. You will need to weigh the benefits against that additional cost of premium solar panels before making any decisions.

If you do decide to install premium panels, you can’t go wrong with Panasonic HIT+ panels. At 20.3%, they are one of the top 3 most efficient solar panels on the market right now. They produce an incredible 340W per panel, compared to a standard solar panel’s 275W.

On top of that, they enjoy an extremely low-temperature coefficient of -0.258%/ °C, almost half of most solar panels, meaning they will produce more electricity in hot weather. And your roof can get pretty darn hot in the summer!

How does Panasonic produce such a premium solar panel? Panasonic uses smaller solar cells than most other manufacturers, so they can jam 96 cells in a single panel, as opposed to the more common 60 cells. With these smaller cells, they waste less precious space on the face of the solar panel, leading to more production. And these smaller cells are also less prone to wear and damage than the larger solar cells that most solar panels use, leading to greater energy production years down the road.

These premium components allow Panasonic to offer a 25-year parts guarantee as well as an incredible 90.76% guaranteed production after 25 years – much higher than Trina Solar panels that are mentioned above. Learn more about Panasonic solar panels in our in-depth Panasonic solar panel review.

Mission Solar – Best US-Made Solar Panel

You may not have heard of Mission Solar, but they’re an American company on the rise. In 2018, they were set to double their manufacturing capacity to 400 MW, possibly making them the 4th largest solar panel manufacturer in the US.

Mission Solar is based in San Antonio, Texas, and unlike some US-based soolar panel manufacturers that import raw materials (like silicon) from overseas and simply finish the process in the US, Mission Solar designs, engineers, and assembles all its solar panels in a single factory in San Antonio. It doesn’t get more American-made than that (though ironically the company itself is actually owned by a Korean conglomerate).

Mission Solar makes some surprisingly good solar panels – both for residential and commercial installations – at surprisingly reasonable prices. Their company doesn’t focus on ultra-efficient, ultra-expensive panels like fellow American manufacturer Sunpower. Instead, they make quality ‘standard’ efficiency panels that are a home-grown alternative to the ubiquitous Chinese imports of similar quality.

Their 60-cell residential solar panel enjoys 18.9% efficiency and produces up to 315W of energy.

Their solar panels come with a 12-year product warranty and an 80.2% 25-year production guarantee, both better than Trina Solar, our pick for the best overall solar panel.

The only issue with Mission Solar is their size. As they’re still a relatively small company, it might be hard to find a local installer that actually carries their products. Your best bet is to call a few local installers to see if they can order them.

How To Get The Most Out Of Your Solar Panels

Although this article is mostly about installing solar panels, we would also like to share a few tips that will help you get the most out of whichever brand or style you choose.

1. Staying On The Grid

When you think of going solar you may only be thinking of saving money, but did you know that in some circumstances you can earn money with your home solar system? Many electric companies will allow you to connect your solar system to the main grid so that if your system produces more electricity than you need, the company can credit you the difference. If this is something you’re interested in, be sure to ask your installer about getting a grid-tied system. They will know whether this option is available in your area.

2. Cleanliness = Higher Efficiency!

If you have been researching solar for a while you probably already know this, but if you’re new to the game this is an extremely important tip: Keep your solar panels clean! As we mentioned, these panels are designed to be out in all kinds of weather, so dust and dirt shouldn’t damage them. That being said, it can make them less efficient. Any kind of build-up on the front of the panel can block sunlight which means your panels won’t be able to absorb as much light. Be sure to clean your panels with a gentle detergent and soft cloth so that you don’t inadvertently scratch the surface.

3. Listen To Your Installer

You’re probably tired of hearing this, but if you truly want to get the most out of your panels you should listen to your installer. You may think you have the perfect spot for your solar system, but there are a lot of details you may not have considered. The best way to place and angle your panels will differ depending on where you live. The pros will know just how to place the panels to ensure that they function at peak efficiency.

See if solar panels are right for your home by visiting UnderstandSolarPower.com or entering your zip code below and connecting with an installer that can answer all of the questions you have about switching to solar today.

Ready to go solar? Enter your zip code below to find out which solar panels are right for you.

The post Best Solar Panels to Buy for Your Home appeared first on EarthTechling.

Since solar power is more popular now than ever before, there are hundreds of options to choose from. To help make your foray into solar a little easier, we have put together a list of quality solar kits for you to look over. Let’s get started with a quick list of all of our top picks for the best solar panel kits for 2021.

Best Solar Panel Kits for 2021

• ECO-Worthy 800W Solar Power Kit: Best Overall Solar Power Kit For Home Use
• Eco-Worthy 200 W Monocrystalline Solar Panel Kit : Best for a RV
• Grape Solar 400 W Off-Grid Solar Panel Kit : Best for Sheds and Small Buildings
• Renogy 100W Solar Power Kit: Best Budget Solar Power Kit
• Renogy 100W Solar Kit: Best Overall 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
• TP-Solar 100W Solar Kit: Best Budget 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
• Renogy 100W Flexible Solar Panel Kit: Best Flexible 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
• Rockpals 100W Solar Kit: Best Portable 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
• TP-Solar 100W Solar Kit: Best 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit For RV Mounting

Learn more about each of our top picks for the best solar panel kits in our in-depth reviews below.

Solar Panel Kit Reviews

ECO-Worthy 800W Solar Kit

Quick Look: Comes with eight 100W monocrystalline solar panels, 60A LCD charge controller, 1500W inverter, combiner box, two 100Ah batteries, wiring, and mounting brackets. Check Price at Amazon

Switching your home to solar may seem a bit intimidating, but with this kit from ECO-Worthy, you can rest assured that you have all the materials you need to get the job done right. This kit comes with solar panels, a combiner box, a charge controller, and an inverter, plus wiring and brackets for simple installation.

This kit comes with eight 100W monocrystalline panels. Each panel comes with 2.9’ of solar cable and is pre-drilled for easy installation. The included 4-string combiner box will help to streamline the installation process. The panels themselves have aluminum frames and are rust and weather-resistant.

The 60A charge controller has an easy to read LCD display and works with flooded, gel, and lithium batteries. This kit comes with two 100Ah valve regulated gel batteries to store all the power your new solar panels can produce. The 1500W/24V inverter is perfect for converting your solar power to usable AC for all your electricity needs.

Eco-Worthy 200 W Monocrystalline Solar Panel Kit

Quick Look: Efficient, monocrystalline solar panels in a simple, cost-effective kit.

Check Price at Amazon

Eco-Worthy’s 200W solar panel kit is the perfect option for someone looking for a simple, cost-competitive solar kit for a small to medium-sized RV. The kit includes two monocrystalline solar panels, a 20 amp charge controller, mounting hardware, wiring to connect the solar panels to the controller, and two adapters to combine the two panels into a single wire.

Two hundred watts probably isn’t enough if you’ve got a larger RV or your energy use is high, but for smaller rigs, it’ll do just fine. If you do want to go up in size, the 20 amp controller can handle a total of 300W in 12-volt mode, so you can add additional panels down the road.

Unlike the cheapest controllers, this one has an LCD screen to tell you your system’s voltage, battery charge, and energy production status, as well as two USB ports to charge your smartphone or iPad without an inverter, a thoughtful feature that could come in handy in a pinch.

You’ll need to buy a battery and inverter, as well as the additional wiring. Since the controller is a PWM controller, you’re limited to lead-acid batteries, as PWM controllers can’t handle lithium-ion. Still, at the kit’s low cost it’s not a bad deal.

Unfortunately, there aren’t enough reviews of the kit to be helpful, but what’s there is good and Eco-Worthy’s other products are well-reviewed, so we don’t think there’s anything to really worry about.

The only issue any reviewer mentioned is that the kit doesn’t include instructions, though they did say that installation was quite easy. It’s certainly an annoyance, but in our minds, not a deal-breaker at this price.

Bottom Line: Eco-Worthy’s 200 W Solar Panel Kit is a great deal for small RVs. For the same price, you could buy two solar panels individually, you’re also getting mounting hardware, wiring, adapters, and a charge controller.

It’s a simple kit that should be very easy to install in your RV, especially if you’ve already got an inverter and battery in place – just make sure that the battery is lead-acid, not lithium-ion!

Grape Solar 400 W Off-Grid Solar Panel Kit

Quick Look: A quality mid-sized system with a pure sine wave inverter and excellent customer service.

Check Price at Amazon

Grape Solar’s 400 watt Solar Panel Kit is the perfect solution for a shed or small cabin. It comes with four 100W panels, an 1800 watt pure sine wave inverter, a 35 amp charge controller, and the wires to connect the solar panels to the charger and the controller to the battery. The only thing you need to bring is a 12V battery and the mounting hardware.

The 35 amp charger controller is large enough to safely add one more 100W panel, for a grand total of 500W. However, like the other controllers above, it’s a PWM controller, not an MPPT, so you can’t add a lithium battery, only lead-acid. However, PWM controllers are cheaper, so there’s certainly a balance of performance and cost going on.

The included inverter is also a good piece of equipment. At 1800W, the inverter that comes with the kit is large enough to charge all your gadgets at the same time. It’s also powerful enough for a blender or hairdryer, but possibly not at the same time.

The inverter includes two 3-prong outlets and a USB outlet. It’s also a pure sine wave inverter which means it can power more sensitive electronics like some CPAP machines, power tools, and some laptops.

Grape Solar makes quality solar components and this kit is no exception. Many buyers are using it for their off-grid cabins and tiny homes with reliable results. Customer service is stellar, with friendly staff that is actually knowledgeable on the finer points of their technology.

Bottom Line: If you’ve got a shed or a small cabin that only needs around 400W of solar power, Grape Solar’s kit is the perfect solution. It’s low-priced with quality components. Just don’t forget to buy the battery and mounting hardware.

Renogy 100W Solar Power Kit

Quick Look: Comes with one 100W monocrystalline solar panel, 30A controller, wiring, and mounting brackets. Check Price at Amazon

Converting your whole home to solar can be challenging and expensive, but you don’t have to switch everything to solar all at once. You can start small and then add more solar panels as you can. If that sounds like something that would work for you, then check out this solar power kit from Renogy.

Renogy is a pretty well-known name in the solar power world. They make all kinds of solar kits including this one which comes with one 100W monocrystalline solar panel and a 30A controller. It also comes with all the wiring and mounting brackets you need to get started.

The panel comes with corrosion and weather-resistant aluminum frame, perfect for roof installation. The controller is designed to handle up to 400W, making it perfect for expansion down the road.

Renogy 100W Solar Kit

Quick Look: 100w Foldable Monocrystalline Solar Panel. Comes with 20A PWM charge controller. Compatible with seven different types of battery. Durable and portable. Check Price at Amazon

One of the best things about these 100W solar kits is that many of them are very portable, like this model from Renogy. This panel is foldable and comes with a convenient carrying case so you can have solar power on the go.

Not only is the case convenient, but it’s durable too, just like the rest of this solar kit. The panel itself is waterproof and the frame is made out of corrosion-resistant aluminum, making this a great choice for your boat, RV, cabin, or caravan.

The included PWM charge controller comes with an easy to read LCD screen and is designed to protect your solar battery from overcharging, short-circuiting, or back charging. This system is compatible with seven different types of batteries including lithium, flooded, and gel batteries.

TP-Solar 100W Solar Kit

Quick Look: 100W monocrystalline solar panel. Durable design. Compatible with multiple battery types. Comes with 20A charge controller, 16 feet of solar cable, and mounting brackets. Check Price at Amazon

If you’re ready to try solar, but need to stay within a tight budget, check out this kit from TP-Solar. This kit comes with a solar panel, charge controller, and 16’ of solar cable. Just add a battery and you can start using free solar energy right away.

The included PWM charge controller is capable of handling up to 20A of power. It can process up to 400W on a 12V system or 800W on a 24V system. This means that you can easily add more solar panels later on as your budget allows.

This panel’s sturdy and durable design makes it a good choice for extended outdoor use. It is waterproof as well as wind and snow-resistant. It also comes with a pre-drilled frame and four Z mounting brackets for easy installation.

Renogy 100W Flexible Solar Panel Kit

Quick Look: 100W Thin-film flexible solar panel. Flexible up to 248 degrees. Comes with 10A PWM charge controller and necessary wiring. Check Price at Amazon

For those situations where a large rigid solar panel won’t do, here is a more flexible option from Renogy. This solar panel can flex up to 248 degrees, making it a great choice for nontraditional mounting, such as placement on the front of your boat or on the curved roof of a small camper or RV.

To help you get the most out of this flexible panel, it comes with a 10V PWM charge controller and all the wiring needed to quickly connect it to your battery bank. The controller comes with the built-in battery protection you need to ensure that your batteries do not short-circuit or overcharge.

This panel also has built-in bypass diodes which help your panel to continue functioning in low-light conditions such as cloudy days or when placed in shady areas. The panel and the controller are also waterproof, offering even more mounting versatility.

Rockpals 100W Solar Kit

Quick Look: 100W Foldable monocrystalline solar panel. Lightweight and ultra-portable. Comes with 10 adaptors for charging solar generators or power stations. Check Price at Amazon

Solar power can be a camper’s best friend! Not only is it free, but you can access it from anywhere. Because of this, many avid campers like using solar battery banks or power stations to keep their campsite powered up. If this sounds ideal for your situation, then we have the perfect 100W solar kit for you.

This foldable solar panel from Rockpal comes with ten different adaptors, specifically for charging solar generators. It also has three built-in smart USB ports for 5V charging, meaning you can charge your phone or tablet directly from the solar panel without having to worry about overcharging.

This panel is lightweight, only 5lb, and folds up to be the size of a thin briefcase. It is waterproof and weather-resistant as well as very durable. It also comes with built-in heavy-duty grommets so you can easily hang it on your tent or camper.

TP-Solar 100W Solar Kit

Quick Look: 100W monocrystalline solar panel. Durable and weather-resistant. Comes with 20V PWM charge controller, solar cables, and mounting brackets. Check Price at Amazon

Solar power is also great for those who like to spend a lot of time traveling in their RV, but don’t like wasting time looking for a campsite with a power hookup. If you want your RV to be grid-free, then take a look at this solar panel kit from TP-Solar.

This kit comes with a highly-durable solar panel that is specifically designed with multiple mounting options, perfect for RV installation. Another benefit to this panel is that it is lightweight, only 15lb, meaning that you won’t have to hire a bodybuilder to help you get it on to the roof of your RV or caravan.

The included PWM charge controller is capable of handling 20V of power. It comes with an easy to read LCD display that shows your battery’s stats including charge level, temperature, voltage, and more. This controller has built-in protection against battery discharge, overcharging, and reverse polarity. This kit is also compatible with expansion, making it easy to add more panels later on.

How We Chose The Best Solar Power Kits

When it comes to choosing a solar power kit for home use, the choice can be a bit daunting. There are many to choose from and they all seem about the same, but there are a few things that we looked for that set these kits apart.

Quality Materials

One of the most important things that we looked for in our picks was high-quality materials and construction. These kits are not cheap, so it is important to make sure that you are choosing one that is going to last. We looked for features like weatherproofing, corrosion resistance, and sturdy aluminum frames to ensure that no matter which kit you choose, you’ll be getting a quality product that is built to last.

Accessories Included

There is nothing more frustrating than starting a project and finding that you don’t have all of the materials you need. We looked for a variety of kits that would fit different situations, but still include all the basic requirements to get the job done. Having accessories like combiner boxes, solar cables, and mounting brackets included in your solar power kit helps to make your installation process that much easier.

Ease of Use

This ties in with the previous section, since having all the accessories included makes installation so much easier, but that’s not the only thing that makes these kits user-friendly. Installing a solar power kit for home use can be tricky, so it is important that as a beginner you do a lot of research and choose a starter kit that comes with easy to follow instructions and simple set-up. We’re not going to tell you that this isn’t a time-consuming project, but at least with these high-quality kits, you can save some time and frustration by following their straightforward installation instructions.

What You Need To Know About Solar Power Kits

Just in case you are new to solar power, here is a little information that you should know before you purchase your solar power kit.

Optimum Function

One of the most important things that you should know about solar panels is that their power output is always advertised as the absolute most power that they can generate in optimum conditions. This means that most of the time your solar panels will not be producing the full amount of power that they are designed to produce. Many solar experts recommend purchasing enough solar panels to produce at least 25% more power than you think you need to make up for this. This is especially important if you want to use solar as your main power source.

The Battery Battle

There are three main types of deep cycle batteries used for solar battery banks: lead-acid, seawater, and lithium-ion.

Lead-Acid batteries are often used in vehicles because they are capable of providing the powerful energy surges required to turn over an engine. These batteries are reliable, but often very heavy and can be damaged if their charge is allowed to go below 50%.

Seawater batteries use an electrochemical process involving seawater to generate power. These batteries are long-lasting, non-toxic, and most are fully recyclable. These batteries are the safest option, but they are also one of the most expensive at this time.

Lithium-Ion batteries are by far the most popular type of battery used for solar power storage. They are lightweight, safer than lead-acid batteries, and much less expensive than seawater. These batteries have a long lifespan and many can be fully depleted without damaging the battery.

Different batteries work better for different situations, so we can’t say which battery will be best for you. You should consult a solar expert in your area who can give you a recommendation according to your needs.

Combiners, Controllers, and Inverters

You may have noticed that all of the kits on our list come with at least one of these things, if not all of them. Combiners, Controllers, and Inverters are all very important items to have when setting up your solar power system.

Combiners are boxes used to connect or “combine” the energy output from your strings of solar panels. That is why you will see 4-string and 6-string combiner boxes, it means that those boxes can combine four or six strings of panels, respectively.

Charge Controllers are used to regulate the charge coming out of your solar panels. Because the weather can be unpredictable at times, solar panels do not charge at a consistent rate. This can lead to overheating and overcharging batteries which is very dangerous. A quality charge controller will eliminate those dangers. There are many different types of controllers that are designed to handle different amounts of power. Be sure to research the size you need before making your purchase or adding more solar panels on to an existing controller.

Inverters convert the DC power coming out of your solar batteries into AC power so that it can safely be used to power your home appliances. This conversion is very important! Never try to run an AC product on DC power. At best it will cause a short, at worst it could cause a fire or an explosion. Always ensure that you have an inverter powerful enough for the amount of power you’re trying to convert.

What Do Solar Panel Kits Include?

All solar panel kits come with, at the very least:

• Solar panels, to create the electricity.
• Charge controller (for off-grid systems), which goes between the solar panels and battery, to protect the battery from over and undercharging.
• Wiring, to connect the solar panels to the charge controller.

Some also include:

• Mounting hardware to connect solar panels to the roof.
• Wiring to go from the charge controller to the battery and from the battery to the inverter.
• Fuses to protect all the wiring.
• Inverter, to convert the battery’s DC electricity to AC electricity for all our gadgets and appliances.

Take a look at the kits you’re interested in to see what’s included. If it doesn’t include any of the above, you’ll have to buy them separately, which isn’t a huge deal, since multiple options for each piece of equipment above can easily be found on Amazon.

If you’re looking to install an off-grid solar installation, you’ll have to buy a battery separately, as none of the kits above comes with one.

To help you with your installation, your kit usually includes a manual that describes the installation process as well as what equipment you’ll need to complete your installation and even recommendations on battery type and size.

Off-Grid vs Grid-Connected Kits

Almost all solar panel kits are designed for off-grid use. In other words, the kit will never connect to the utility infrastructure – it’s completely independent. Good examples of off-grid installations include solar in RVs and camper vans, backyard sheds (if not connected to the home’s electricity), and off-grid mountain cabins.

Choosing between an off-grid and grid-connected system is usually pretty easy, as your situation dictates your needs. If you’re wanting to add solar to your grid-connected home, you’ll need a solar panel kit designed for grid use. If you’re adding solar to your RV or far-away mountain cabin, you’ll want a solar panel kit designed for off-grid use.

Are Solar Panel Kits Easy To Install?

All of the small solar power kits that we reviewed above are simple and easy to install. Information abounds about installation practices, sizing your system and battery, and safety concerns.

With a little research and a few hand tools, anyone can safely and competently install these small solar kits. If you’re worried about whether you have the skills or ability to install the kit yourself, there are many solar professionals out there who would be happy to help you.

As you go up in size, say 1,000W or more, solar installations become more complicated. Not just in the wiring and electrical components, but also in the physical installation.

How do you safely attach a few hundred pounds of solar panels and equipment to your roof? What about sealing the lag bolts from water leaks? Is ice damming a bigger issue with solar panels? You need to be able to answer all these questions and a hundred more when installing solar on your home.

If your home is grid-tied, like most homes in the US, you’ve got even more questions to answer. Does your utility allow self-installed solar installations to connect to the grid? Spoiler: Many do not. Can you provide your local building department the necessary electrical diagrams and structural information? What size electrical conduit do you need to run the wires from your roof to the inverter?

Even after all this, most jurisdictions only allow licensed electricians to actually work in your electrical panel, so you’ll have to hire an electrician to connect your installation to your home’s panel.
For most of us ‘regular’ people, it doesn’t make sense to install a large solar installation ourselves. We lack the knowledge and skills to install an entire solar installation safely. Small kits are one thing, but if you want a large, grid-tied solar system on your roof, it’s probably better to simply hire an installer.

Can I Save Money By Installing The Kit Myself?

Installing any equipment yourself usually allows you to enjoy a lower overall cost. Most of the kits above cost about $1.50 to $2 per watt. Hiring a solar company to install a solar system costs about $3 per watt, so you could save 33% to 50% by installing it yourself.

If you’re looking to install solar on your detached shed or garage, installing your own solar panel kit has the potential to save you quite a bit of money, as running electrical lines from your house to a separate structure isn’t cheap. Instead, you can simply install solar yourself and keep much of that cash in your pocket.

The only time that installing a solar kit yourself may not be the best choice is when you’re looking to install a large grid-connected solar system. As you now know, these kits can become quite involved and usually require professional installation.

How To Get The Most Out of Your Solar Kit

Thankfully, modern solar kits are pretty self-sufficient. If you buy a quality kit, the system should be nearly maintenance-free, but there are a few things you can do to ensure that you get the most out of your kit.

The most important thing you can do is keep your solar panels clean and free of debris. Solar panels can only work if sunlight can get through the glass front panel and the more sunlight the better. Dust, dirt, leaves, and other obstructions can keep your solar panel from performing at its best.

How often you should clean your panels depends on where you live. If you live in a desert area with a lot of dust, you may have to clean the panels as much as once a week. In other areas, once a month may be enough. The important thing is to check them periodically.

Never use anything abrasive to clean the panels because it could scratch the glass, making it cloudy and hard for light to get through. Use a soft cloth and gentle cleaner to ensure that you don’t damage the panels.

Another way to ensure that you’re getting the most out of your panels is to check the power output periodically. Most charge controllers will have a digital display that allows you to view your panels’ output in real-time. If you check this often, you’ll know what to expect and whether or not your system is working correctly. The sooner you notice a discrepancy, the sooner you can address the issue.

Most solar panels come with long warranties, between 10 and 25 years, so you shouldn’t have to worry about much, but it’s always good to know that things are working as they should.

How to Choose The Best Solar Power Kit For You

Now that you know all about the wide variety of items required to set up a solar power kit for home use, let’s talk a little bit about how you can choose the best kit for you.

Set Your Budget

Switching to solar power can help you save a lot of money, but the initial cost can be hefty. Setting a budget from the beginning can save you from frustration later on. Going solar isn’t just about buying solar panels, there are multiple elements involved. Purchasing a starter kit can certainly save you money and help you stick to your budget, but remember that there will likely be at least a couple of things you’ll have to buy separately. Fortunately, most solar power systems are compatible with expansion, so you can add on later when your budget allows.

The Power You Need

As I mentioned, you can always increase later if you want to, but it is a good idea to know what your power goals will be from the start. If you’re not sure how much electricity you use, you can simply look at your electric bills from the last 12 months or call your electric company. Once you know how much you use on average, you can begin to calculate how many solar panels you would need to power your home.

Thankfully, you won’t have to do all the math yourself. There are many handy solar calculators online that you can use for some quick estimates. If you do choose to do the math yourself, remember to add that extra 25% to your solar panel requirements to make up for less than perfect weather conditions.

Taking The Plunge

Once you have your budget and an idea of how much power you want to generate, it’s time to pick a kit. Do not hesitate to call in a professional if you’re nervous about your choice. Anytime you’re dealing with electricity, it is better to be safe than sorry.

If you’re a serious DIYer and are comfortable installing a kit yourself, the choice of kit should now be very simple. You can go as small or as large as you want, just remember to choose a kit that is compatible with expansion if you plan on adding more panels in the future.

Bottom Line

We hope you’ve found our mini-guide to solar panel kits helpful! We’ve covered a lot of information here, so let’s look back at our top picks for solar panel kits one last time:

Like we mentioned before, small solar panel kits are great for RVs and sheds, but if you want to run your entire home on the sun’s energy, hiring an installer is still the best option. Costs are falling each year, and by hiring an installer, you have the knowledge that your system is installed safely and lawfully. Check out some of the best solar panels and best solar installation companies if you want to get a full-sized solar system for your house.

Of course, not all installers offer great service, so do your research and get estimates from a few different companies to compare costs and customer experience. Estimates are always free and the best companies aren’t pushy at all. The financial savings of installing solar typically sells itself, and the best installers know that no pushy sales tactics are required.

Until you’re ready to go full-on solar, solar panel kits are an easy way to get your RV or cabin running on clean, renewable energy, so get on it!

We hope you’ve found our guide to solar panel kits helpful! Here’s one last look at our picks:

Compare the Best Solar Panel Kits for 2021

• Eco-Worthy 200 W Monocrystalline Solar Panel Kit : Best for a RV
• Grape Solar 400 W Off-Grid Solar Panel Kit : Best for Sheds and Small Buildings
• ECO-Worthy 800W Solar Power Kit: Best Overall Solar Power Kit For Home Use
• Renogy 100W Solar Power Kit: Best Budget Solar Power Kit
• Renogy 100W Solar Kit: Best Overall 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
• TP-Solar 100W Solar Kit: Best Budget 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
• Renogy 100W Flexible Solar Panel Kit: Best Flexible 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
• Rockpals 100W Solar Kit: Best Portable 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit
• TP-Solar 100W Solar Kit: Best 100 Watt Solar Panel Kit For RV Mounting

The post Best Solar Panel Kits appeared first on EarthTechling.

Since 2010, the cost of installing solar has dropped an incredible 65%.

While buying a solar installation might’ve been only for the well-to-do just a decade ago, with today’s low prices (and great financing options) anyone can install solar and save some money on their energy bills.

The best way to calculate the true cost of your solar panel panels with installation, and how much you could save on electricity, is to get a free estimate.

New lows for solar installation costs in 2021

Every year, the solar industry makes the headlines with lower installation prices. The latest jaw-dropper was from the once-great SolarCity (now Tesla), which announced early this year that it would charge just $2.50 per watt for solar installations – a record low. With the 30% federal tax credit, that put solar installation costs at just $1.75 per watt.

In 2010, the average home solar installation cost was $7.34 per watt. So while Tesla charges just $20,000 for an 8 kilowatt installation, that same installation in 2010 would’ve cost $58,720!

Of course, since 2010 installation costs have steadily fallen each year. Colorado’s National Renewable Energy Lab actually publishes data every year on solar installation costs, the latest being the Q1 2018 Solar PV System Cost Benchmark. As can be seen in the chart below, NREL estimates that the average installation price in 2018 was just $2.70 per watt. That’s a 65% drop in price in just 8 years.

Tesla’s installation cost of $2.50 per watt is certainly headline-grabbing, but most installers aren’t quite there yet and, in reality, solar installation costs can go all the way up to $3 per watt. A $0.50 difference probably doesn’t sound like a lot, but for an 8kW installation that’s an extra $4,000 you’ll have to shell out.

What drives solar energy’s falling costs?

If you look at the chart above, you can see the single biggest driver to solar energy’s falling cost is the rapidly-falling cost of the solar panels themselves, thanks largely to economies of scale in manufacturing and cheap imports. In 2010, the solar panels (or modules) made up about 35% of total installation costs. Today, those same panels make up just 15% of installation costs.

In 2010, solar panels cost about $2.50 per watt, but by early 2017 that had fallen to just $0.38 per watt. Panel prices increased about 20% in early 2018 – about the same time that the US took steps to implement tariffs on imported solar panels – but since then have resumed their downward trajectory.

The solar industry even has its own name – Swanson’s Law – for the falling price of solar panels. Popularized in a 2012 article in The Economist, Swanson’s Law states that solar panel prices tend to decrease by 20% for every doubling of worldwide panel shipments. In the real world, this works out to about a 10% cost decrease each year.

Exactly how long these falling prices will continue is anyone’s guess, but experts think it might end pretty soon. The cost of solar panels has fallen just 2.3% in 2019 and Forbes foresees panel prices as bottoming out soon, as the Chinese market stabilizes.

Solar industry analysis firm GTM also predicts residential solar installation costs to bottom out around $2.50 per watt – a number that Tesla has already attained and other installers are likely trying to figure out as well. If the industry wants to continue this downward-trending cost we’ve all come to expect, installers will need to place greater focus on lowering operating and installation costs, streamlining the installation process and working towards reducing the often dreadfully-high permitting fees.

How tax credits and incentives work

When rooftop solar was still in its infancy in the 2000s, the federal government and numerous states and cities saw the benefits of renewable energy – namely the financial savings and low emissions – and decided to help the industry out by offering tax credits, rebates, or other financial incentives. These incentives were designed to make solar attainable for more homeowners, thereby boosting the nascent solar industry, and most were set to gradually expire as solar became close to the cost of utility prices.

In 2019, many of these incentives have already expired, but there are a few great ones still lurking around.

The federal 30% tax credit, known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), is the largest solar incentive available right now. This credit allows you to write off 30% of your total solar installation cost on your federal income tax.

If you paid $16,000 for your installation, for example, you could claim a $4,800 credit when you file your taxes. As a credit – not a deduction – the ITC is a dollar-for-dollar discount on your installation. However, as a non-refundable credit, it can only bring your tax burden down to $0; the federal government will not give you a refund based on this credit alone. You can break the credit into chunks and claim it over several years though.

2019 was the last year for the full 30% credit. At the beginning of 2020, the tax credit dropped to 26%. In 2021, it dropped further to 22%, then 10% in 2022. After that, it’s toast!

The federal tax credit isn’t the only incentive to help bring down your solar expenses. Cities and states across the US also offer incentives for solar. Colorado Springs Utilities, for example, offers rebates of $0.20 per watt for residential solar. The City of San Francisco offers $200 to $500 per kW, depending on system size.

Other cities and states offer property or sales tax exemptions for solar equipment and installation costs while others offer income tax credits similar to the ITC. Your solar installer will be intimately familiar with all available incentives in your area, so be sure to ask for a rundown of what incentives are out there.

Solar is growing fast, but still a fraction of overall generation

Solar and renewable energy has exploded in the last twenty years, but it’s still just a small fraction of total electricity generation in the US.

In 2009, utilities in the US produced just 28 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of solar electricity, but by 2018 that number had increased to 5,252 GWh. That’s an increase of 19,000%!

In that same period, the bottom fell out on coal as well. In 2009, coal produced 1.3 million GWh of electricity – far larger than any other fuel type. By 2018, that had dropped 35% to about 860,000 GWh.

Its fall from grace was, and continues to be, pretty striking. However, coal is still a huge part of our electricity industry. Even in 2019, coal still accounts for about a third of our total electricity generation, while solar makes up just 0.28%, according to data from the EIA.

When looking at renewable energy more generally, the outlook is a bit better, as both wind and hydroelectricity power huge swaths of the country. In 2019, renewable energy in all its forms accounts for about 15% of total electricity generation. For the first time in history, renewable energy (including hydro) actually outperformed coal in April and May of 2019 and renewables are set to permanently overtake coal by 2031, according to the EIA, driven by falling prices.

While solar has exploded over the last decade, we’re certainly not going to fix the earth with 2/3 of our electricity still coming from fossil fuels. Many states and cities are taking steps to push renewable and clean energy as far as it will go. Hawaii, California, New Mexico, and Washington have all pledged to go 100% clean or renewable energy within the next few decades, so get ready to sell a lot more solar and wind.

Is solar at cost parity with the utility?

This is the big question the solar industry is always asking. Is installing solar cheaper than purchasing electricity from the utility?

This idea, known as grid parity, is what the entire solar industry is working towards. Once it’s cheaper to purchase and install a solar system on your roof than to continue purchasing electricity, all without any financial incentives, then there’s nothing to keep rooftop solar from taking over the world.

As of 2019, residential rooftop solar is cost-competitive with utilities in many areas of the US, but not all.

First off, the good news: Large-scale solar (those owned by utilities) not only has achieved parity with the cost of conventional fuels, but is actually cheaper. Each year, consulting firm Lazard analyzes the life-cycle cost (what they call Levelized Cost of Energy, which includes facility construction, maintenance, and fuel costs) of electricity sources.

In 2018, it found that unsubsidized utility-scale solar costs $36 per MWh, while natural gas cost $41 per MWh and coal $60 per MWh. When adding in incentives like the federal tax credit, the cost of utility-scale solar drops further to just $32 per MWh. Utilities are even finding solar more financially attractive than continuing to run existing coal plants. Across the country, utilities are closing coal plants early, in favor of cheaper, cleaner renewables or natural gas. Xcel Energy, for example, announced in May 2019 that it has decided to close two coal plants in Minnesota by 2030, in favor of energy efficiency measures and new wind power.

From a homeowner’s perspective, it’s a bit of a different story. In the same analysis, Lazard estimates that – after incentives – residential rooftop solar costs about $0.15 to $0.25 per kWh. At $0.15 per kWh, that’s generally at grid parity in about ten states in the US, mostly in the west, northeast, and Hawaii.

In reality, solar can be competitive with utility rates outside these ten states. As an example, let’s say we installed a medium-sized 6kW solar installation in Colorado. At $3.00 per watt, that’s a total investment of $18,000.

A well-placed 6kW installation in Denver will produce about 9,622 kWh per year and about 218,800 kWh over its 25-year lifespan, after taking into account production losses each year due to wear and tear on the panels.

Breaking down your initial cost ($18,000) by total production, your solar electricity would cost about $0.08 per kWh. Not bad considering the average residential utility rate in Colorado is $0.12 per kWh.

Solar electricity is well below grid parity in states with high utility rates like California, Hawaii, and New York. In fact, it’s the reason why solar is so popular among homeowners in those states. In other states like Colorado, it typically makes sense, as long as your installation costs aren’t sky-high. In states with low utility rates, like Idaho or Washington (both of which have low utility rates thanks to cheap hydroelectric power), the financial value of solar needs to be calculated on a case-by-case basis.

How much can I save going solar?

In our example above, we found a Colorado homeowner can save about $23k by installing solar on their home. However, those lifetime savings can range from just $5,000 to more than $40,000.

Why such a wide range? The amount you save by installing solar depends on a wide variety of factors, including: 1) your cost to install, 2) your solar installation’s electricity production, 3) the utility rates in your area, and 4) your financing.

If that’s enough of an explanation for you, feel free to skip to the next section. If you want to learn a bit more about how all these factors affect your financial savings, keep reading! Let’s take a look at each one a bit more in-depth.

1) Installation Costs: We’ve already looked at average installation costs in the sections above, but keep in mind that actual solar costs can jump higher or lower depending on your area and installer. Costs tend to be higher in states like California with higher wages, permitting fees, and/or overhead. While NREL estimates the average installation cost is around $2.70 per watt, costs can jump to $3.00/watt or more in some areas. A $0.30 difference might not sound like a lot, but talking to a few different installers to find the cheapest rates can save you thousands right off the bat.

2) Electricity Production: Since you’ll be avoiding that high-priced electricity from the utility, the more solar energy you produce, the more you can save. The amount of electricity your installation produces is largely affected by your installation size and geographic location. For example, a 6kW installation in sunny Arizona will generate about 10,165 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity in the first year, while that same installation in Minnesota will produce 7,993 kWh. That doesn’t mean installing solar in Minnesota is pointless, but rather that an Arizona homeowner will see a faster return on investment.

3) Utility Prices: Utility rates are one of the biggest factors when calculating the cost-effectiveness of your solar installation. Every kilowatt-hour of electricity your solar installation produces is a kilowatt-hour you don’t have to buy from the utility. With this in mind, if you live in California – where utilities charge $0.18 per kWh on average – you’ll recoup your solar investment much faster than if you live in Idaho, where the average utility rate is about $0.10 per kWh. Again, this doesn’t mean that installing solar in Idaho is worthless, just that California homeowners can see a faster return on their solar investment.

Utility rates are also rising each year as well – another major component in estimating your total lifetime savings. And of course the rate at which utilities raise rates varies widely. Over the last 15 years, utilities in the US have increased electricity prices by 2.6% each year on average. However, that ranged from 1.4% in Maine and Louisiana to 4.6% in Hawaii. The faster the increase, the more you can save by installing solar. Over the 25-year lifetime of your solar installation, the rate of increase can affect your total savings by thousands of dollars.

If all this sounds overwhelming, don’t worry about it! When you contact local solar installers for estimates, any solar installer worth their weight will lay out your utility’s current prices as well as its annual rate of increase.

4) Financing: Lastly, your financing also affects your savings. You’ll see the biggest financial return by paying for your installation in cash. But of course, your bank account will take a pretty big hit if you pay in cash. Thankfully, there are more options available.

As home solar has become more popular, more and more banks and credit unions are now offering low-interest loans specifically for solar installations. You can also take out a HELOC or Home Equity Loan to pay for your installation as well. Your total savings will be lower since you’ll be paying that pesky interest, but you won’t have to spend your nest egg either.

Solar leases are also available, but these usually lead to the lowest return on investment of all the solar financing options available and we really don’t recommend them.

There are even more factors than the four above that affect your solar savings. For example, financial incentives like the federal tax credit or utility rebates can increase your savings and it’s important to know your state’s net metering regulations as well. But the above four factors contribute heavily to your total solar savings.

Each solar installation is custom designed and built, so the best way to get an accurate estimate for your cost and savings is to simply reach out to a few solar installers. All solar companies – big and small – offer free estimates. Some companies even use online tools to remotely estimate your cost and savings, so they don’t even need to come to your home or set up an appointment.

If you live in an area where solar installations are a common site, chances are you can also save money by installing solar. While solar costs have plummeted over the last decade, that might not be the case anymore, as solar panel prices have bottomed out and financial incentives continue to dry up. With the federal Investment Tax Credit starting to phase out this year, if you’re thinking about going solar, it’s probably best to hit the gas within the next year or two.

Should I install solar now or wait?

Reading about the ever-falling costs of solar, you’re probably wondering whether you could see an even better return on your investment if you hold off on solar right now and wait a bit longer. After all, installation costs will surely fall even further in the next 5 to 10 years. Seems smart, right?

While solar panels could fall a bit further and solar installers will likely get more streamlined and efficient, it’s really a moot point. Save a dollar now or a dollar later, the best time to invest is right now – not tomorrow.

As of 2019, the average solar installation (with incentives) takes about 8 to 12 years to see a payback, though that depends on your utility’s prices and geographic location. With solar installations lasting about 25 years, that gives you about 13 to 17 years to reap the financial rewards of completely free clean energy.

For a bit more insight into payback periods, let’s return to our Colorado example above. The total investment is $12,600 (after the ITC) on an installation that produces about 9,600 kWh each year. With the average utility in Colorado charging $0.12 per kWh, you’re avoiding a $1,150 utility bill each year. At that rate, it would take you about 11 years to recoup that initial investment, leaving you 14 more years of zero-cost to enjoy. After 14 years of producing your own clean energy, you’ll have saved almost $23,000.

Ready to go solar? Enter your zip code below to find out if solar panels are right for you.

The post Solar Energy Costs Trends Over Time appeared first on EarthTechling.

There are dozens of excellent solar deck lights on the market, but we recommend these top five below because of their durability, brightness and stylish design that blends in with virtually any decor.

We arrived at this decision by comparing dozens of solar deck lights based on their durability, illumination, design and lifespan. We also read hundreds of customer reviews to get a sense for how well these solar lights lived up to their marketing hype. In the end, five stood out from the rest.

Check out our top 5 picks for the best solar deck lights for 2021 below and read on for full reviews and tips on how to get the most out of your solar deck lights.

Top 5 Best Solar Deck Lights for 2021

• OTHWAY Solar Fence Post Lights – Best Solar Deck Lights Overall
• Davinci Lighting Solar Post Lights – Best Solar Post Lights for Decks
• URPOWER Waterproof Solar Lights – Best Motion Activated Solar Deck Lights
• XLUX Solar Lights for Steps – Best Solar Stair Lights for Decks
• Brightech Ambience Pro Waterproof Outdoor String Lights – Best Solar String Lights for Decks

Learn more about our top picks to find the best solar deck lights for you below.

Solar Deck Light Reviews

OTHWAY Solar Fence Post Lights

Best Solar Deck Light Overall

Quick Look: Compact, versatile and bright, these lights are the ideal choice for completely illuminating your deck or patio.

Check Price at Amazon

The OTHWAY Solar Fence Post Lights are compact quarter-globe-shaped lights that easily adhere to deck posts and walls. While the manufacturer doesn’t offer specific details about the lumens these lights produce, users often comment on how bright the lights are and what a large area they can illuminate. Each light has a built-in day/night sensor that automatically turns the light on when the surrounding area grows dim and back off when it begins to brighten. The exact runtime of the light depends on its position and how long it receives direct sunlight each day, but it’s capable of running for hours at a time.

The lights are available in black or white and in packs of two or four. Each light has a decorative honeycomb pattern on the lampshade to dress up the space and lithium ion batteries with a two-year lifespan that help power the lamps.

Though they’re made of plastic, users haven’t reported any issues with the lights breaking down or chipping over time. Even when left outside through the winter, most report that the lights keep working as well as they did when they were brand new. If you do run into any issues with your light, OTHWAY offers a 60-day money-back guarantee and a 12-month guarantee so you can get your lights replaced if they stop working.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

Davinci Lighting Solar Post Lights

Best Solar Deck Post Light

Quick Look: Davinci’s solar post lights brighten up your deck and add a touch of sophistication.

Check Price at Amazon

Davinci Lighting’s Solar Post Lights are designed to rest atop your deck posts to add a decorative touch as well as some much-needed illumination. They affix to any 4- or 6-inch square deck post or any other flat surface. Each light is IP44 weatherproof, so it should be able to stand up to most types of severe weather without issue. The light itself is made from industrial-grade plastic and tempered glass, and it’s available in black or white. Each package includes two solar post lights.

The manufacturer claims that a full day’s charge will give you eight hours of illumination at night, which should be plenty for most people. The lights automatically turn on when they sense the surrounding area growing dim and each has a 100,000-hour battery life.

The lights are relatively easy to install and they blend in well with most existing decor. They’re a great option for stairs and large decks and porches with several posts, but if your deck railing is mostly smooth, you may be better off going with one of the other solar deck lights listed here.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

URPOWER Waterproof Solar Lights

Best Motion Activated Solar Deck Light

Quick Look: These motion-activated deck lights are small, bright and extremely durable.

Check Price at Amazon

The URPOWER Waterproof Solar Light are a versatile option you can affix to the wall of your home so it can shine down onto your deck or attack to the deck rails for light all around. The lights come in a pack of four and are IP64 waterproof and heatproof so they can withstand all types of extreme weather. Each light has a 50,000-hour lifespan, which means it’ll last about five years for most people. This is longer than many comparable solar deck lights.

It’s a great choice if you want a motion-activated light to illuminate the area when you or a guest are out on the deck. It can sense any motion within 10 feet of it and it has a 120-degree sensing angle so it can sense you even when you’re not directly in front of it.

Users are impressed by how much light these solar deck lights put out given their small size and report that they turn on and off as advertised and without lag. The few customers who did report issues with these lights noted that the company was quick to respond and replace the defective items.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

XLUX Solar Lights for Steps

Best Solar Deck Stair Lights

Quick Look: The XLUX Solar Lights add a warm glow to your deck stairs without being too overbearing.

Check Price at Amazon

The XLUX Solar Lights are made of stainless steel and have a sleek, low-profile design that enables them to illuminate your deck staircase without posing a tripping hazard. You can also attach them to a fence post or deck railing if you prefer. Despite its slightly industrial appearance, the XLUX Solar Lights deliver a surprisingly warm white light. There is also a white light option for those who want a brighter white light, but most users prefer the warmer light option. You can purchase the lights in packs of two or six.

Customers have said that the lights were pretty easy to install and that they hold up well in severe weather. They aren’t as bright as some solar deck lights, but most users agree that they provide just enough light to be useful without being so bright as to irritate neighbors.

As with any solar light, you’ll get best results when your XLUX Solar Lights are in direct sunlight for most of the day, but these lights tend to perform well even on cloudy days and they automatically turn on and off when they sense the light in the surrounding environment changing.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

Brightech Ambience Pro Waterproof Outdoor String Lights

Best Solar Deck String Lights

Quick Look: These solar string lights are expandable, elegant and built to last.

Check Price at Amazon

If your deck is partially covered or if you have a pergola, the Brightech Ambience Pro Waterproof Outdoor String Lights can brighten up your deck from above. Each strand is 48 feet long and contains 15 solar bulbs spaced 3 feet apart. You can connect up to eight strands together for larger decks. While you can’t adjust the settings on the bulb itself, you can attach the string light to a dimmer switch so you can control its brightness.

The Brightech string lights are waterproof and surprisingly durable. The manufacturer claims they can withstand up to 50 mile-per-hour winds and remain up through harsh winters without breaking. Customers back this up with many commenting on the strength of the cord and the quality of the lights’ construction. On the off chance you do run into issues, the company offers a three-year warranty on the strand and a three-month warranty on the bulbs.

Each light contains an Edison bulb for that vintage look and delivers a warm, soft light, unlike the harsh white lights that are all too common with solar bulbs. If style is a primary concern for you when choosing a solar deck light, you can’t do much better than the Brightech Ambience Pro String Lights.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

How We Chose the Best Solar Deck Lights

When selecting the best solar deck lights, we focused on four main features: durability, illumination, lifespan and settings.

Durability

Since solar deck lights are usually left outdoors, they need to be able to stand up to all the elements, including heavy rains and strong winds. The best solar deck lights are waterproof to prevent rain from short-circuiting the electrical components and heat-resistant to ensure excessive heat won’t damage the light.

You also need to consider the materials the solar deck light is made of. Most are either metal or plastic. Metal lights tend to hold up the best while some flimsy plastic lights may break easily if you accidentally bump into them. If you choose a plastic light, be sure it’s made from a heavy-duty plastic that holds up well over time.

Illumination

There are two aspects you need to focus on when deciding on the right solar light for your deck. First is the brightness of the light itself. This is usually given in lumens. String deck lights usually produce fewer lumens per bulb, but you have to multiply this by the number of lights in the strand to compare it to singular deck lights.

You also need to consider the range the solar deck light can illuminate. The manufacturer may indicate how many feet it can cover or give the angle of illumination so you have a sense of how far the light will reach. If you have a large area to cover, you’ll need more lights than someone with a smaller deck. String deck lights can provide a great range, but when widely dispersed, they may not provide as much illumination per square foot as when they’re closer together.

Lifespan

Solar lights use lithium ion batteries to store the electricity they generate until it’s needed, but these batteries usually only last a couple of years before they need replacing. These batteries are often not included in solar deck light warranties, so you’ll have to pay for a new one if yours breaks. You can check if this is the case for your light by reading through its warranty, if it has one.

You also should check into how long the solar deck can run for at one time. This isn’t an issue for motion-activated lights, but if you plan to leave the light on overnight, you want a light that can last for hours after a full charge.

Settings

Some solar deck lights include multiple brightness settings to give you greater control over the ambience. Choosing a lower setting may help your solar lights last for longer. If you don’t want your light on all the time, consider a motion-activated light that turns on when someone walks past it.

Tips for Buying the Best Solar Deck Lights for Your Needs

Before you purchase your solar deck light, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Understand why you’re purchasing a solar deck light.

If you want to enjoy your deck or porch in the evenings, you’re going to need a different solar deck light than someone who just wants a motion light to notify them when someone approaches. Think about why you want a solar light and let that guide your decision.

It may be possible that several types of solar deck lights may suit your needs equally well. In that case, think about which type you prefer and which blends in the best with your home and your existing decor.

Place the lights where they will get the most sun.

When choosing a solar deck light, there’s a delicate balance between placing the light where it’s most needed and where it will get the most sun. If the solar light doesn’t get enough sun, it may not provide the illumination you’d hoped for or it may only last for an hour or two. But the light also won’t be very useful to you if you have to place it far away from the deck in order to get it in full sun.

Think about where you’d like to place the solar lights on your deck and then pay attention to the way the sun’s rays move across your deck throughout the day. You may have to come up with a different configuration or choose a different type of solar light if you don’t believe the lights would get enough sun where you wanted to put them.

Figure out how many lights you’ll need.

If you want fewer lights around your deck, you’ll need to choose ones that are bright and cover a wide area. You may also want to consider placing them up higher, if you can, because many solar lights have the solar panel on the top with the light beneath it pointing downward. If you place your solar lights too low, they may not provide as much as light as you’d hoped.

The manufacturer may provide information about how large of an area its solar lights can cover or you can estimate this based on other customer reviews. Most solar deck lights come in packages, so you may have to purchase more than you need, but it’s not a bad idea to have some extras on hand in case one of yours breaks.

If you’re unsure which solar light is right for you, start with one of the seven listed above. All are durable, stylish and favorably reviewed by customers, so at least one of them should appeal to you.

Compare The Best Solar Deck Lights for 2021

• Best Solar Deck Lights Overall: OTHWAY Solar Fence Post Lights
• Best Solar Post Lights for Decks: Davinci Lighting Solar Post Lights
• Best Motion Activated Solar Deck Lights: URPOWER Waterproof Solar Lights
• Best Solar Stair Lights for Decks: XLUX Solar Lights for Steps
• Best Solar String Lights for Decks: Brightech Ambience Pro Waterproof Outdoor String Lights

The post Best Solar Deck Lights appeared first on EarthTechling.

Solar bug zappers work the same way that traditional models work, with the added benefit of using solar power instead of regular electricity. These bug zappers are chemical-free, portable, and ultra user-friendly. There are tons of different styles and models to choose from, so to help narrow your search, we’ve compiled a list of our three favorites. So take a look and see if any of them sound right for you. We’ve also put together a little information that can help you choose the best solar bug zapper for you.

Top 3 Best Solar Bug Zappers of 2021

• PIC Solar Bug Killer: Best Overall Solar Bug Zapper
• White Kaiman Solar Bug Zapper And Lantern: Best Ultra-Durable Solar Bug Zapper
• PIC Portable Solar Lantern and Bug Zapper: Best Solar Bug Zapper For Camping

Reviews of the Best Solar Bug Zappers

PIC Solar Bug Killer

Quick Look: Torch design with LED and UV light. Multiple mounting options. Chemical-free. Removable catch tray. Battery life of up to six hours. Check Price at Amazon

Do you love the look of tiki torches, but don’t want to be burning fuel in your yard every night? Then check out the PIC Solar Bug Killer. This beautifully designed bug zapper has flickering LEDs that will give you that soothing aesthetic of burning torches without the dangers of open flames and chemical fumes.

With the combination of flickering LEDs and a UV light, this bug zapper attracts all the common flying pests like gnats, black flies, and moths. Once a bug flies into the zapper, it will fall right into the catch tray. The catch tray is easy to remove for simple clean up that does not require disassembling the light.

This unit is water and weatherproof, meaning that you can leave it out all year without concern. It comes with both a tabletop mount and stakes for mounting out in the yard. The battery can last up to six hours after the sun goes down, making this model a beautiful and functional addition to your patio decor.

Learn More and Buy Now at Amazon

White Kaiman Solar Bug Zapper and Lantern

Quick Look: Durable stainless steel design. LED and UV light. Charges with solar or AC power. 40-hour battery life. Check Price at Amazon

This stainless steel bug zapper from White Kaiman is the perfect choice for those looking for a more durable option. This unit is waterproof and weather-resistant and is designed to last for years of daily use. Use it to protect your patio, garden, or campsite from unwanted insects.

The built-in handle makes this bug zapper ultra-portable while the durable and safe design makes it a good option for those with pets and children. This unit requires no assembly or installation, simply charge it and let the zapper do the rest.

Speaking of charging, this zapper can last up to 40 hours on a single charge. You can charge it up by setting it in direct sunlight or you can use the included AC charger for cloudy or rainy days. This model comes with both a UV light and an LED light, so you can use it as a bug zapper or as a traditional lantern, depending on what you need at the moment.

Learn More and Buy Now at Amazon

PIC Portable Solar Lantern and Bug Zapper

Quick Look: Twin pack comes with two lantern bug zappers. LED lantern with multiple light settings. UV light with 500v zapper. Charge with solar or AC power. Up to 12-hour battery life. Check Price at Amazon

Who doesn’t love cookouts and camping during the summer? These awesome summer pastimes can be made even better with the addition of the PIC Portable Solar Lantern and Bug Zapper. These zappers can be used as lanterns, bug zappers, or both at the same time, giving you the ability to light up your patio or deck while still warding off pesky insects.

The bright white LED light on these lanterns comes with three light settings, low, medium, and high, giving you the ability to light up a party or simply have a pleasant night light. The blue UV light will work to draw the bugs in, keeping them away from you and your guests.

You can charge these lights solely with solar power or you can use a micro-USB charger for fast charging. Depending on the light setting you use, the battery can last up to 12-hours on a single charge, making these a great option for those late-night cookouts.

Learn More and Buy Now at Amazon

How We Chose The Best Solar Bug Zappers

In our search for the best solar bug zappers, we focused on three main elements: effectiveness, safety, and ease of use.

Effective

Since the whole purpose of having a bug zapper is to remove pesky bugs, it would only make sense that we would choose zappers that had the features and power to zap away mosquitos, black flies, gnats, and more. That is why we chose models with UV lights to attract bugs and powerful electrified grids to eliminate them.

Safe

Anytime you’re dealing with anything electrical, especially an electrical device that is designed to emit an electric shock, safety is key. That is why we chose sturdy zappers with dual layers of protection. Each of the units on our list comes with a protective inner and outer grate to prevent accidental shocks. This ensures that the only ones being zapped are the bugs.

Ease of Use

One of the best things about choosing solar power for your bug zappers is that it makes them extremely easy to install and use. You do not have to worry about running new wiring or having an outlet to plug into, simply set the unit out in the sun and let the solar panels do all the work.

When it comes to our picks, we looked for a few extra features that would make these models even easier to use than the average solar bug zapper. We looked for features like weatherproofing, so you wouldn’t have to worry about repeatedly having to take them down and put them back up. We also looked for units that would turn on automatically. Last, but not least, we chose zappers with multiple light functions so that they could be used all year instead of only during bug season.

What You Need To Know About Solar Bug Zappers

In your search for an effective bug zapper there a few key things that you should consider before making your purchase.

Power

Not all bug zappers come with the same amount of power, so it is important to choose one that is powerful enough to kill the bugs that you’re targeting. Typically 1000v is plenty of power, but if you need something a little more heavy-duty, there are higher voltages available. If you are using your bug zapper in an area with a very high bug population, such a spot near a lake, you may want to choose one with a little more juice.

Just remember that the higher the voltage is on the electrified grid, the more power it will use. This means that the battery may not last as long as you want, so be sure to check the promised battery life.

If you’re looking at a model that is both a light and a bug zapper the battery life will strongly depend on the settings you use. For example, if you are only using the light on the lowest setting the battery may last for days without needing to charge, but that same battery may only last a few hours when you use the light and the zapper together. If you want your zapper to be on all night, you will want to choose a model that allows you to turn off the extra LED light to save power.

Safety

As we already mentioned, safety is paramount when it comes to bug zappers. Always look for a zapper that has multiple guards surrounding the electrified grid. If you have children or pets who will be around the zapper, make sure that the guards are designed in such a way that little fingers and paws cannot reach through them. Also, be sure to look for models that are made out of durable materials that are unlikely to crack or split if dropped. This will help to protect you and your family from accidental shocks.

For those with little ones around the house, you can take a little extra precaution and choose zappers that you hang up instead of stake mounted or tabletop models. Even with the safest zapper design, the only way to truly ensure safety is to make sure the zapper is completely out of reach. Many manufacturers recommend placing your zapper at least 3’ to 5’ off the ground anyway, so this may be the safest and most effective mounting option.

Lights And Attractants

Many flying insects are attracted to UV light which is why most bug zappers come with a UV light option. Unfortunately, not all biting insects are attracted to UV light, such as mosquitos. So you may find a bug zapper that is strong enough to kill mosquitoes but won’t attract them. Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide that we exhale as well as a few other human scents such as sweat and blood.

Thankfully, you won’t have to stand near your zapper as bait to draw them in, you can simply use a mosquito attractant such as r-octenal or a sweet-smelling candle to draw the mosquitoes toward the zapper. Some bug zappers even come with built-in mosquito attractants, so if your main goal is to zap the mosquitoes, you may want to seek out one of these models.

How to Choose The Best Solar Bug Zapper For You

Now that you know all about bug zappers and what to look for in a safe quality unit, let’s talk about the two final details you have to consider in order to choose the best solar bug zapper for you.

Know Your Bugs

Since not all bugs are attracted to bug zappers, it is important to know what types of bugs you’re trying to eliminate before making your purchase. Regular bug zappers with 1000 to 2000v of power work well against many common flying insects that are attracted to UV light, such as moths, gnats, midges, and flies. If you’re struggling with a specific type of insect that falls outside of this category, it may be worth researching that type of bug before buying a zapper that may not take care of the problem.

Match Your Style

Once you have narrowed your search down to a few safe and sturdy zappers that are designed to attract the bugs you want to eliminate, it is time to choose the design that will best fit your style. This may seem a little silly, but there are a few options to choose from that may help you to get more out of your purchase.

For example, are you planning on using this bug zapper for your patio only or would you like a more portable version? If you want to use the zapper for the patio area then you could choose ground-mounted models, like the PIC torches on our list. These will add a decorative flair to your landscaping while eliminating unwanted pests.

If you want to keep your campsite or picnic area bug-free, then you’ll want a more portable version such as the White Kaiman or PIC lanterns. These types of bug zappers lightweight and portable, plus they are dual-purpose, meaning you get two tools for the price of one. By removing bugs and providing bright LED light for your campsite, this is the perfect style for adventurers.

Bottom Line

Don’t let those pesky buzzing bugs ruin your picnics and cookouts! With a good quality bug zapper, you can remove the bugs without having to use dangerous chemicals or waste electricity. By choosing a solar-powered bug zapper, you know that you’re choosing the most user-friendly and eco-friendly form of insect control. You can’t go wrong with any of our top solar bug zappers, but we recommend the PIC Solar Bug Killer.

Top 3 Best Solar Bug Zappers of 2021

• PIC Solar Bug Killer: Best Overall Solar Bug Zapper
• White Kaiman Solar Bug Zapper And Lantern: Best Ultra-Durable Solar Bug Zapper
• PIC Portable Solar Lantern and Bug Zapper: Best Solar Bug Zapper For Camping

The post Best Solar Bug Zapper appeared first on EarthTechling.

Solar blinds use narrow solar panels on the inside of your window to charge the battery that powers your blinds. This means that you can have motorized blinds without having to run any new wiring. Some solar power kits even allow you to use your existing blinds, so you won’t have to replace the blinds, simply add the motor and you’re good to go. There aren’t too many companies that make solar-powered blinds yet, so finding them can seem a little challenging, but not to worry, we’ve done the work for you! Here is a list of some of the best solar blinds on the market today as well as a little information to help you choose the best ones for you.

Top 5 Best Solar Blinds of 2021

• MySmartBlinds: Best Overall Solar Blinds
• RollerShade Solar Blind Charger: Best Budget Solar Blinds
• Zemismart Rechargeable Blinds Motor: Best Solar Blind Motor For Roller Blinds
• Somfy Solar Pack: Best Solar Blinds Motor For Cordless Blinds
• AXIS Gear: Best Solar Blinds For Circular Chain Pull Blinds

Reviews of the Best Solar Blinds

Tilt’s MySmartBlinds

Quick Look: Quick setup kit comes with motor, charger, and solar panel. Transforms existing blinds into smart solar blinds. Comes with limited warranty for mechanical failure. Check Price Online

If you love the blinds you already have but want to upgrade to smart motorized blinds, then MySmartBlinds is the perfect solution. This is a small kit that comes with a motor, charger, and solar panel so you can transform your traditional blinds into the blinds of the future.

Once you have installed MySmartBlinds, you can control your blinds completely from your phone, no manual input is required. You can adjust the blinds singularly or you can set them up in groups to automatically open and close on a schedule.

Speaking of automation, this kit also comes with a temperature sensor, so you can set your blinds to automatically open or close according to the temperature. This is especially helpful if you’re using your blinds to help regulate the temperature in your home. If you purchase the tilt Bridge, you can even connect your blinds to your smart home hub and so you can make adjustments with voice commands.

Learn More and Buy Now

RollerShade Solar Blind Charger

Quick Look: 12V solar battery charger for blinds. Comes with 94.5 inch connecter cable with female 5.5/2.1mm connector. Check Price Online

For those of us who already have motorized blinds, but want to switch to solar power, here is a perfect solution from RollerShade. This 12V solar panel is perfect for keeping your blinds battery well charged throughout the day.

The slim simple design makes it perfect for any window design. It can easily be attached to the inner windowsill with brackets or you can use double-sided tape to attach it directly to the window for the best sun exposure.

This charger comes with a 94.5” connector cable, giving you lots of flexibility in the way that you mount it. The simple female end connector makes this charger super easy to integrate into your existing motorized blinds set-up.

Learn More and Buy Now at Amazon

Zemismart Rechargeable Blinds Motor

Quick Look: Rechargeable blinds motor with solar panel for charging. Lithium-ion battery that can last up to 600 uses on a single charge. Nearly wireless design. Scratch-resistant aluminum frame. Check Price Online

This rechargeable motor from ZemiSmart is perfect for roller blinds, shades, and even motorized bug screens. It is easily controlled via an RF remote control or wall unit so you can adjust your blinds with the touch of a button.

The nearly wireless design makes this model a great choice for those who have children and are concerned about excess wiring. The unit has only one wire, leading from the battery to the solar charger. Since the blinds are controlled using an RF remote control, it does not require any wiring to be down where little hands can reach it.

The solar panel is built to withstand the weather so you can mount it indoors or out. It comes with screw-in mounting brackets as well as adhesive tape, so you can mount the panel wherever there is the most sun exposure.

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Somfy Solar Packs

Quick Look: Nearly wireless blinds motor with rechargeable battery. Long-lasting NiMH battery. Compatible with most Somfy WireFree window coverings. Discrete and easy to install. Check Price Online

Here is another great option for those who have motorized blinds, but want to upgrade to solar power. With this rechargeable solar-powered motor from Somfy, you can adjust your blinds as many times as you want and never worry about wasting electricity.

This motor is designed to be easy to install and operate. You won’t need an electrician for this home improvement project! Simply install the motor, mount the solar panel, and the sun will do the rest!

The included solar panel is slender and low-profile, making it easy to simply install it and forget about it. It will not greatly disrupt your view or the look of your window. This solar kit is designed to be used with nearly all of Somfy’s WireFree window coverings.

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AXIS Gear

Quick Look: Transforms existing chain pull blinds into solar-powered smart blinds. Easy to install. Comes with motor and solar panel. Check Price Online

You do not have to give up your favorite pull chain blinds to go solar! Instead, install this handy motor from AXIS. The AXIS Gear is designed to attach to your existing blinds, via the pull chain, to allow you to adjust your blinds using the AXIS app.

This easy to install motor takes only a few minutes to set up and does not involve taking down or moving your blinds. The solar panel is also unobtrusive and easy to install. The battery backup for the motor is in the solar panel, so you’ll only have two pieces of equipment to install.

You can use the AXIS app to adjust your blinds whenever you want. You can also use the app to set daily and weekly schedules so that you never have to mess with your blinds again. If you don’t feel like pulling out your phone, you can always adjust the blinds using the easy touch controls on the Gear control panel as well.

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How We Chose The Best Solar Blinds

As we mentioned in the beginning, there aren’t a lot of solar-powered blinds motors out there yet, but there are a few to choose from and this is how we picked the ones that we wanted to feature in this article.

Versatility

Although blinds seem to be a pretty simple feature of your home decor, there are thousands of different kinds. From roller blinds and shades to slats and screens, there are lots of models and styles to choose from. That is why we tried to find solar-powered motors that would work with a variety of blinds so that no matter what type you have in your home, there would be a solar-powered option here for you.

Style

Many people put a lot of time and effort into choosing window coverings that will complement their decor and going solar should not take away from that. You shouldn’t have to settle for bulky unattractive fixtures in your home, so we looked for solar motors and chargers that were unobtrusive. We chose styles that would be easy to conceal or those that could easily blend in with any window treatment.

Ease of Use

One of the best benefits of choosing solar power for your motorized blinds is how easy it is to install a solar-powered motor. Most of the kits do not require any tools and take only moments to attach to your existing blinds.

When it came to the solar motors that were also smart blinds motors, we looked for units that were easy to install and control. The models we chose have easy to navigate apps that allow you to control your blinds effortlessly. These smart blind motors also come with programmable options for automating your blinds so that you don’t have to adjust them at all. You can’t get much easier than that!

What You Need To Know About Solar Blinds

Solar blinds are pretty straightforward, but before you make your purchase, there are a few details that you should be aware of.

Blinds Not Included

You may have noticed that the items on our list are not technically blinds, but are instead chargers or motors for blinds. The chargers are meant to go with motorized blinds that already have a motor, but need a solar panel for energy. The kits that come with a motor and a solar panel are designed to help you turn your traditional blinds into motorized blinds.

Why are the motors and blinds sold separately? Because it is more cost-effective for manufacturers. Not everyone wants to use solar power, so it is easier to manufacture all their blinds to run on AC and simply sell the solar chargers separately for those who do enjoy using free renewable power. Selling the solar chargers separately does benefit some consumers though. Many of these motors allow you to make use of the blinds you already have, saving you money and time trying to find new blinds that will match your decor.

Just beware that if you are starting from scratch or want to buy all new blinds, you will most likely have to buy the blinds and the solar chargers separately. Many of the companies that sell motorized blinds do offer a solar-powered charger that is compatible with their blinds, so be sure to ask the manufacturer what they have available in terms of compatible solar panels.

Brand Specific

Speaking of asking the manufacturer, be aware that some manufacturers only make solar-powered motors specifically for their brand. This means that some of these motors are not universal, so make sure the motor or charger is compatible with your blinds before making your purchase.

Smart Blinds

This one might be a bit obvious, but we want to cover all the bases, so here it is: Not all motorized blinds are smart blinds. Smart blinds are exactly what they sound like, blinds that you can control via Bluetooth through your phone or home smart hub. These are a great choice for those tech-savvy homeowners who want to control everything in their home with their phone. For homeowners who aren’t really worried about apps and connectivity but still want motorized blinds, a regular solar-powered motor will work just fine.

How to Choose The Best Solar Blinds For You

Now that you know all about your options when it comes to these eco-friendly window coverings, choosing the best solar blinds for you will be a synch.

Start At The Beginning

The best place to start is to determine what you already have and what you need. If you already have blinds that you like then you simply have to choose a solar-powered charger or motor that is compatible with them. For traditional blinds, you will want to choose a solar-powered kit that comes with a motor and solar panel. If your blinds are already motorized, you may want to contact the manufacturer and see if they sell a solar charger for your existing blinds. The same principle applies if you’re purchasing brand new blinds, make sure to ask about solar power options before making your purchase.

Smart Or Not?

Your next decision is whether you want your blinds to be smart or not. There are lots of benefits to having smart blinds. Being able to control them without having to get up, precise adjustments without any hassle, and automated scheduling are just a few of those benefits. If you have a lot of windows and would like to be able to open and close all the blinds without having to go from window to window, then smart blinds may be the best choice for you.
Regular motorized blinds are nice for those who don’t adjust their blinds very often or those who don’t want to mess around with too much technology. These blinds allow you to make adjustments with a remote or a switch near the blind. They are still very easy to use and will add to the comfort of your home.

How To Get The Most Out Of Your Solar Blinds

Solar blinds are simple to install and maintain, but here are a few quick tips that will help you get the most out of your blinds.

1. Proper Installation

The number one way to ensure that you get the most out of your blinds is to make sure that they are installed correctly in the first place. Make sure that you follow the installation instructions carefully, both for the motor and the solar panel. Solar panel placement is especially important. Although it isn’t always possible, facing your solar panel to the south is the most effective placement. Many solar blinds use small solar panels that are mounted on the inside of the window, but if your windows do not get enough direct sunlight, you may want to consider outdoor panels that can be mounted on the roof for better sun exposure.

2. Keep Them Clean

As with all solar products, keeping your solar panel clean will help to ensure premium performance. Make sure you clean the panel with mild soap and a microfiber cloth. This same technique can be used to clean the blinds as well. Just keep in mind that water can damage the motor, so never fully submerge the blinds in water.

3. Know What You Need

Last, but not least, make sure that you choose the blinds that match your style. As we already discussed, there are several options and it is important to choose the style that best fits your needs. There is no sense in choosing a more expensive Bluetooth version if smart gadgets aren’t your thing. On the other hand, if you love smart gadgets and want to automate your blinds, then smart is the way to go. You will be sure to get the most out of your blinds if you know exactly what you need before making your purchase.

Bottom Line

Everyone loves to get out in the sunshine every now and then, but it isn’t much fun trying to relax and stay cool at home when you have the sun shining right through your front windows. Why not put all that sun power to use and get some solar-powered blinds? The blinds will help to keep your home cool and comfortable while the sun powers the motor so you don’t have to fret about extra energy costs. It’s a win-win!

Top 5 Best Solar Blinds of 2021

• MySmartBlinds: Best Overall Solar Blinds
• RollerShade Solar Blind Charger: Best Budget Solar Blinds
• Zemismart Rechargeable Blinds Motor: Best Solar Blind Motor For Roller Blinds
• Somfy Solar Pack: Best Solar Blinds Motor For Cordless Blinds
• AXIS Gear: Best Solar Blinds For Circular Chain Pull Blinds

The post Best Solar Blinds appeared first on EarthTechling.

No need to find outdoor outlets and run cords to your pond. In fact, most don’t even come with wires, as the solar panel, pump, and electrical components are all integrated into one unit. We researched the market for the five best solar water fountains on the market.

Check out all of our top 5 picks for the best solar water fountains and pumps for 2021 to find the perfect solar powered fountain for you.

Top 5 Best Solar Water Fountains for 2021

• Cocofit Solar Powered Fountain: Best Overall
• Cosscci Solar Fountain Water Pump: Best Value
• AISITIN 5W Solar Fountain: Best Solar Fountain for Ponds
• Solatec Solar Fountain: Best Solar Fountain for Bird Baths
• Smart Solar Ceramic Solar Cascade Fountain: Best Patio Fountain

When searching for our top five picks, we weeded out any products with poor customer reviews, poor service, or exorbitant prices. With our shortlist in hand, we focused in on features, size, and aesthetics to find the best solar fountains for you.

Below you’ll find something to suit your needs, whether you want to spruce up your patio, small bird bath, or large pond – or you’re just looking for a good value.
Let’s take a look at each product’s specs, features, and what customers have to say.

Solar Water Fountain Reviews

Cocofit Solar Powered Fountain

Best Solar Fountain Overall

Quick Look: 6 different nozzles, 2.5 watt panel, 20” – 24” jet, 800mAh battery

Check Price at Amazon

The Cocofit Solar Powered Fountain Pump is our pick for best overall solar water fountain. It’s powerful and well-reviewed, at a very fair price compared to similar products.

Like most of the fountains on our list, this product integrates the solar panel, pump, and equipment into a single floating unit. All you need to do is just place it in your pond, pool, or bird feeder and you’re good to go. If you’re worried about the fountain floating, don’t be! This weighs just 7 ounces, so it’s less than half a pound.

At 2.5 watts, the solar panel is about 2x bigger than many solar water fountains, and the 2.2 watt pump can shoot water into the air 20 to 24 inches high. If you’re looking for a smaller fountain, check out the Solatec Solar Fountain we review below, which comes with a 1.4 watt panel and a much more subtle jet, shooting water from just 12 to 20 inches high.

The kit includes 6 different nozzles to change both the jet height and shape and the manufacturer notes that water needs to be at least 1” deep for the fountain to work properly.

If the sun’s not out, the kit includes an integrated 800mAh Li-ion battery – the standard battery size for most solar water fountains – that can keep it going for about an hour, though happily some buyers report the battery lasting several hours when sunlight isn’t available (it just depends on the amount of light that is available).

The fountain is also rated at IP68 in the IP Code, meaning it has been tested and found to be 100% waterproof when submerged in water for an indefinite amount of time – a must for submerged pumps and electrical equipment.

A word of caution, it seems the manufacturer has recycled the Amazon page from previous products, so there are customer reviews for other products – both positive and negative – mixed in with reviews for the solar water fountain. Overall, buyers of the solar fountain report the product is durable and works well, but like any imported electronic device on Amazon, some report faulty devices that quickly quit functioning. However, these comments are rare and the 12-month warranty alleviates most of the concern.

Cocofit isn’t the only manufacturer making solar water fountains. There are a dozen or more fountains on Amazon with very similar specs, down to the battery size and number of nozzles. For example, the Viajero 2.5W Solar Fountain includes an integrated 800mAh battery, 6 nozzles, and a 2.5 watt solar panel – almost exactly the same as the Cocofit fountain. The Viajero even has fantastic reviews, but when comparing both cost and customer reviews, as well as features, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better value than the Cocofit Solar Water Fountain.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

Cosscci Solar Fountain

Best Value

Quick look: Low price, 1.4 watt solar panel, 3 separate heads, no battery

Check Price at Amazon

The Cosscci Solar Fountain Water Pump wins our award for best value thanks to its great reviews and low price. In fact, it’s the lowest-priced fountain on our whole list! Don’t let the cost fool you though. While it’s a simple product, it works just as well as any of the other products on our list.

How does Cosscci make it so cheap? First, it’s smaller than other solar fountains. The solar panel produces just 1.4 watts, compared to the 2.5 watts of the Cocofit fountain above. Second, this little solar fountain does not include any battery. While the other fountains on our list typically include an 800mAh battery and can run for about an hour, this battery-less fountain only works when the sun is out.

This keeps cost down, but of course, if there’s no sun, you don’t have a working fountain. If you want a smaller solar fountain that does include a battery, take a look at the Cocofit above or the Aisitin fountain below.

But if you just want a cheap solar fountain to enjoy on a sunny day, the Cosscci covers all your needs for the price of a couple hamburgers. The entire unit is just 7” wide and weighs just 5.6 ounces – about 1/3 of a pound. The pump can spray water between 10 and 15 inches and includes three different sprayer heads for different patterns. Your pond or bird bath needs about 2” of water for the pump to work properly, so keep this in mind. If water depth is an issue, take a look at the Cocofit fountain above, which only needs 1” of water to operate.

Several buyers noted that with any of the spray heads attached the water jet is simply too high for a small bird bath and that any wind will push the water out of the bath, quickly depleting your water supply. To solve the problem, one buyer simply left the fountain without attaching any spray head, creating a gushing, ‘burbling’ effect. Another buyer actually went McGyver and attached a bendable straw to the head and bent it back towards the bath, creating a ‘slide’ to direct the water back down.

If you do have a small bird bath and live in a windy area, you might need to take an extra step or two so you’re not constantly refilling the bath with water.

The manufacturer doesn’t publicize any IP rating (read more on IP Ratings below) to prove its waterproof-ness, but users report the fountain works surprisingly well, so you shouldn’t worry too much. Many even note the fountain bubbles up in low light and partial shade thanks to the efficient solar panel, a definite bonus considering there’s no battery.

If you want a basic, no frills solar fountain, the Cosscci Solar Fountain is about perfect and comes at a very reasonable price. If you like the small size, but want your solar panel separate from the pump, take a look at Cosscci’s 1.8W Solar Fountain. This kit still includes a small solar panel detached from the pump, which allows you to place the solar panel in full sun and run the wire to the pump submerged in a shade-stricken pond or bird bath.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

AISITIN 5W Solar Fountain

Best Solar Fountain for Ponds

Quick Look: Large 5 watt panel, large 1000mAh battery, separate solar panel and pump.

Check Price at Amazon

Aisitin’s 5W Solar Fountain is certainly the outlier when looking at solar fountains for ponds and fish tanks, but that’s a good thing.

The first thing you’ll notice is that the solar panel and pump aren’t integrated into a single unit like in most solar fountains. If your pond suffers from continual shade throughout the day, a typical integrated solar+pump combo just won’t work, as the solar panel won’t have access to sunlight to run the pump and charge the batteries.

However, with Aisitin’s solar fountain, you can place the pump in your shaded pond and run the wire to a nice, sunny spot where you can install your solar panel. And since the solar panel is just 11” by 7” (smaller than a sheet of printer paper), it’s easy to find a small, hidden area around the yard where the little panel can fit. And since the solar panels aren’t integrated into the pump, the pump itself is smaller as well, creating a more pleasant aesthetic.

While more versatile than other options, this design does necessitate a bit more setup than the others on our list, but it’s not too involved at all. As mentioned, you’ll have to find a good spot for the solar panel and run the wire to the fountain. It’s not difficult, but a few more steps than simply placing a single solar+pump unit in the water. In essence, the Aisitin takes the setup from an instantaneous process to a 5 to 10 minute process.

The solar panel itself is probably the most durable on our entire list. It’s simply a smaller version of a conventional solar panel, complete with aluminum frame and tempered glass. Solar panels like these are designed for long-term, hard use in the elements. More than likely, it will outlive the pump and you’ll have years of beautiful green energy.

The kit also comes with 6 nozzles to vary the jet’s height and shape and a 1,000mAh battery – the biggest in any solar fountain we’ve seen so far (most include an 800mAh battery). With the larger battery, the pump will continue working for 1 ½ to 2 hours without sunlight, compared to about an hour for most other pumps.

Like the Cocofit – our choice for best overall solar fountain – the Aisitin needs just an inch of water to function properly. The pump even comes with a water sensor and will stop working when there’s no water present.

While there aren’t as many customer reviews for this product, the reviews that do exist are overwhelmingly positive. Users say it works well on cloud-covered days and in partial shade. They also report that it is watertight and durable.

Because it is the largest kit on our list, the price of Aisitin’s solar fountain is a bit higher than most. If you’re looking for a solar fountain that includes a separate solar panel and pump, but want to spend as little as possible, check out Cosscci’s 1.8W Solar Fountain, which is very similar, though smaller, and comes in at about half the price.

If your pond is located in an area of the yard that is just too shady for a solar panel, the Aisitin solar fountain is the perfect option for you.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

Solatec Solar Fountain

Best Solar Fountain for Bird Baths

Quick Look: 1.4 watts, 12” – 20” stream, 4 nozzles

Check Price at Amazon

Our top pick for small areas like bird baths goes to Solatec’s Solar Fountain. Its small size is perfect for keeping visiting aviary entertained and it enjoys the most reviews of any product on our list.

Like the Cosscci Solar Fountain Water Pump – our pick for best value – the Solatec fountain includes 1.4 watts of solar, so it’s on the smaller end. The water jet can shoot up between 12” and 20” in height  and the four included nozzles alter the shape and size of the jet.

Also like the Cosscci above, this fountain doesn’t include a battery, so it has no way to store energy. As such, it only works when the sun is shining. On cloudy days, when covered in shade, or after the sun goes down, the solar fountain will stop working.

You might be wondering why you’d spend a few extra bucks on this Solatec fountain when the Cosscci fountain is cheaper and has many of the same features. It’s a good question!

First, Cosscci doesn’t mention any sort of warranty for its fountain, so if something goes wrong, you’re out of luck. Solatec, on the other hand, offers a 12-month guarantee. Second, while the Cosscci has a couple hundred reviews, the Solatec has thousands. Most of those reviews report that the fountain works well as long as it has full sun. Some buyers report that, on cloudy days, the fountain will spurt water, but not the full jet that full sun brings.

Overall, you’re paying a few extra bucks for a longer warranty (or a warranty period) and a better assurance that it’ll work as promised, thanks to the proliferation of great reviews.

Like other solar fountains here, if you live in a windy area, a heavy gust can blow the water in the jet out of your bird bath, depleting your water supply. Buyers have found varying remedies for the situation, including simply removing the nozzle and drilling out the nozzles so the water jet doesn’t shoot as high.

Overall, this solar fountain is a great option for small applications like a bird bath or small pond. Its simple battery-less setup should last for many seasons and the great reviews and 12-month warranty offer good peace of mind should something break.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

Smart Solar Ceramic Solar Cascade Fountain

Best Solar Patio Fountain

Quick Look: Decorative, 5 ceramic bowls, separate solar panel, 10 ft cable, no battery

Check Price at Amazon

All of the above solar fountains are only helpful if you already have a pond, bird bath, fish tank, or other body of water. If you’ve found yourself living a dry life without any water in your backyard, but still want the soothing burble of a water fountain, you’re not completely out of luck! There’s a whole world of solar-powered water fountains that combine the solar panel, pump, and water container into one package. Our favorite is Smart Solar’s Ceramic Solar Cascade Fountain.

This self-contained decorative fountain is perfect for adding the soothing sound of flowing water to your porch, patio, or backyard. The entire kit includes five ceramic bowls, each ascending above the previous, with a small pump to move water from the bottom to the top. The pump is powered by a separate solar panel connected with a 10ft cable, which allows you to place the solar panel in a sunny area, regardless of where you want to install the fountain.

The entire unit measures 22” high and 15.5” wide and the largest bowl is 14” across and 5” deep and holds two gallons of water. At this size, consider the fountain as an accent piece, perfect for a quiet corner of the yard or patio.

Five different colors are available – Red Lava, Tangerine, Kiwi, Blueberry, and Green Bamboo – so you can easily match your outdoor décor. Customers rave on the look of the stoneware bowls as well as the design of the structure itself. Some customers have complained of the pump dying early, but as long as your water is clean (there’s no filter for the pump) and you ensure that the bowl is filled up, you should easily be able to avoid burning the motor out prematurely.

Like any product, there are a few downsides to this fountain. First off, since it includes more parts than the other fountains on our list, it also costs more as well. It’s about 3x to 5x the price of any of the other fountains. Second, the kit does not include a battery integrated into the solar panel, so there’s no way to store electricity for later use. The fountain will only work when the sun is out.

If you like to sip tea in the evening and want to add a fountain to your night-time relaxation, look instead for a fountain like the Sunnydaze 3-Tier Garden Fountain, which doesn’t have nearly as many good reviews as the Smart Solar fountain above, but does include a solar panel and integrated backup battery.

If your yard lacks a pond or bird bath, but you still want a water feature, the Smart Solar Ceramic Cascade Fountain is a great option. It’s fully self-contained and looks beautiful – just remember to take a second or two each day to fill it up with water.

Learn More & Buy Now at Amazon

What You Need to Know About Solar Water Fountains

You need little or no knowledge or experience to use solar water fountains, but we’ve compiled a few tips just to help you get the most from your new solar-powered equipment.

Maintenance

Maintenance for solar water fountains is very low-key. You’ll just need to clean the intake and/or spray nozzle every so often to keep the water flowing through the pump.

Because solar fountains are pumping otherwise stagnant water, any debris can clog the pump and render the whole thing useless. Thankfully, most of these solar fountains weigh less than a pound so they’re quite easy to grab out of a pond and bring inside for quick cleaning.

Some buyers report that simply cleaning the nozzle is enough to keep the fountain running (use a Q-tip to get into the holes), but in dirty or algae-filled water, the intake can get blocked as well. The intake screen on these small solar fountains can usually be removed, making the cleaning process pretty painless.

Your maintenance shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes each month and it’s a quick, painless process.

Batteries or no batteries?

Most of our solar water fountains above, like the AISITIN 5W Solar Fountain or Cocofit Solar Powered Fountain Pump include a small battery so the fountain can run even when the solar panel is shaded. Most solar fountain batteries are either 800mAh or 1000mAh, enough to keep the fountain going for an hour or two without sunlight. Batteries are a nice feature for those cloudy days or if you like to enjoy your backyard oasis during the evening.

Other fountains however, axe the battery and instead rely 100% on solar power to run the pump. Of course, this limits your pump only to times when the sun is out and smiling. On cloudy days, or in shade, or during the evening, your solar fountain simply won’t work.

Whether to buy a solar fountain with or without a battery is up to personal taste. Batteries allow you to enjoy your solar fountain more often, but they are also more expensive than battery-less kits and will eventually wear out faster than the other components, like the pump and solar panel.

Integrated or separate solar panel?

Of the 5 solar water fountains above, three integrate the solar panel and pump into a single unit, while the other two separate the solar panel and pump into two parts connected via a wire.

The integrated solar+pump fountains, like Solatec Solar Fountain, are the easiest to setup. In fact, there is no setup. Just take them out of the box and place them in the water. It doesn’t get easier than that. They’re cheap, durable, and easy to use, but they do have a major downside. Since the solar panel is integrated with the pump, these products won’t work in ponds or bird baths in shaded areas.

If your pond is under a tree or a neighbor’s playhouse shades your pond for most of the day, you’ll need to find another solution. Thankfully there is one!

Some solar water fountains, like the AISITIN 5W Solar Fountain, separate the solar panel from the pump, allowing you to install the pump wherever you like, as long as the wire can reach the pump. This gives you much more versatility, but takes a little longer to setup than those single-unit fountains.

Overall, we’d recommend going with the integrated solar+pump fountain if your pond sees bright sunshine most of the day, as they’re easy to install and cheap to buy. However, if your pond suffers from pleasant shade, it’s best to go with a kit that includes a separate panel and pump.

Conclusion

Solar water fountains are an easy way to spruce up any backyard bird bath or pond in just a couple of minutes. They’re quick to install, run off clean solar energy, and you only need to invest $10 to $30.

Our top pick for best overall solar water fountain, the Cocofit Solar Powered Fountain Pump, is the perfect option if you’re looking for a cost-effective, simple fountain.

However, any of our top picks will keep your pond algae free and beautiful:

Compare the Best Solar Water Fountains for 2021

• Cocofit Solar Powered Fountain: Best Overall
• Cosscci Solar Fountain Water Pump: Best Value
• AISITIN 5W Solar Fountain: Best Solar Fountain for Ponds
• Solatec Solar Fountain: Best Solar Fountain for Bird Baths
• Smart Solar Ceramic Solar Cascade Fountain: Best Patio Fountain

No matter which product you choose, solar water fountains are an environmentally-friendly option to give your pond a soothing, clean aesthetic.

The post Best Solar Water Fountain appeared first on EarthTechling.