Cost Guide
The cost for solar panel installation, EV charger installation, or solar maintenance may vary. Some of the main reasons for the variation are your location, the capacity of your solar system, the efficiency of the system, and the difficulty of the installation.
Here are averages you can expect for some common services:
Solar Panel Installation
- Range: $12,104-23,567
- National average: $15,927
Solar Panel Repair
- Range: $203-1,211
- National average: $497
Solar Panel Annual Maintenance
- Range: $219-1,008
- National average: $525
Whole-Home Battery Backup
- Range: $7,111-15,444
- National average: $11,283
Electric Vehicle Charger Installation
- Range: $1,313-3,256
- National average: $2,156
Tips For Hiring A Solar Company
Follow the tips below to find the best solar company for your project.
Check Their Reputation And Reviews On Best Of The Web
One of the best tips we can give you for finding a solar company is to check their reviews and reputation here, on Best of the Web. We provide a pre-sorted list of professional solar companies near you. You’ll find their hours, contact information, and services. By finding a solar company here, you know they have been verified and can be trusted with your solar project.
Ask About A Warranty
Most solar panel manufacturers offer at least a 10-year warranty on their equipment, with some offering as much as 25 years. If your solar company is using panels with no warranty or a very short warranty, they probably aren’t using high quality panels. Don’t settle for inferior equipment. Avoid these solar companies.
Get Several Estimates
Get at least three estimates before you select a company to install your solar panels or EV charger. Make sure their estimate covers your entire project and includes everything you’ve discussed. Ask about factors that may lead to the costs exceeding the estimate. If any company provides an estimate substantially less than the others, be skeptical. Find out why they are so much lower, and be sure they are capable and prepared to handle the work before you hire them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do solar panels last?
Most solar panels can last up to 25 years or more. In fact, some of the better quality panels come with a warranty this long. While most panels lose a certain amount of efficiently over time, they can work at 90% or more of their original capacity at the 25 year point.
How long does it take for solar panels to pay for themselves?
Over time, the amount of money you save on your energy bills will cover the cost of installing solar panels. This can range from about 5-15 years. After that point, your only cost for all the energy they produce is the periodic maintenance and any repairs they require.
Can I install solar panels myself?
If you’re handy with tools, you may be able to install the solar panels yourself. A rooftop installation requires you to spend several hours on the roof installing bolts and screws. You’ll also need to hire an electrician to make the final connection to your home’s electrical system.
There are many reasons to hire a professional, though. They not only install your system, they design the proper system for your home, help figure out any rebates you may be eligible for, and often take care of the necessary permits for the installation. A solar company also double checks all their work to make sure the system is functioning to its full potential.