Residential solar equipment

Explore the essential components of residential solar

Learn more about the key elements that make up an efficient home solar setup.

The core element

Solar panels

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, providing a clean, renewable energy source that helps reduce energy costs.

  • High-efficiency panels made from a single silicon crystal, offering reliable performance and a sleek all-black, low-profile design.

  • Made from multiple silicon crystals, these affordable panels deliver solid performance with a slightly lower efficiency than monocrystalline.

  • PERC panels enhance energy output by improving light absorption, ideal for maximizing efficiency in low-sunlight areas.

  • Lightweight and flexible, thin-film panels offer versatility, making them perfect for unique installations despite slightly lower efficiency.

The safety net

Backup batteries

Backup batteries are a more reliable and quiet alternative to generators, storing solar energy for use during blackouts.

  • Lead acid batteries are a reliable, cost-effective option for storing solar energy. While they have a shorter lifespan and lower efficiency compared to other battery types, they are widely available and still commonly used for backup power.

  • Lithium-ion batteries are a popular choice for solar energy storage due to their high efficiency, long lifespan, and compact size. They provide a more reliable and longer-lasting solution for storing energy than traditional lead-acid batteries.

  • Nickel-based batteries offer good performance in extreme temperatures and long life cycles, making them a solid choice for solar power systems in challenging environments.

  • Flow batteries offer scalable, long-duration energy storage for solar power systems. Unlike traditional batteries, flow batteries store energy in liquid form, providing a flexible and durable solution for larger solar installations.

The converters

Solar inverters

Solar inverters convert DC electricity from panels into AC power, making solar energy usable for your home or business.

  • Microinverters are small inverters attached to individual solar panels, allowing each panel to operate independently. This maximizes energy production, especially in areas with shading or other panel-specific issues, and enhances system efficiency.

  • String inverters are centralized inverters that connect to multiple solar panels in series. They are cost-effective and commonly used in residential solar systems, but their efficiency can be affected if one panel is shaded or underperforming.

  • Microinverters offer greater efficiency by optimizing each panel’s performance individually, while string inverters are more cost-effective but may lose efficiency if one panel underperforms. The choice depends on system size, budget, and shading concerns.

Solar installation tips

For a smooth solar installation:

Vet companies

Take the time to research the installers in your area—choosing a reliable, trustworthy professional is key to protecting your investment in your home and the future.

Practice patience

Your home’s installation timeline mostly depends on your location and local regulations. Be patient and trust that your system will be up and running soon.

Be prepared

Make sure that solar is a suitable choice for your home. Take into account your financial situation, your roof’s condition, and your state and local solar incentives.

Simplifying the path to home solar

Solar buyer’s guide

Navigating the path to solar can be overwhelming, but understanding the key elements can simplify the process. Equip yourself with the knowledge to make the right decisions for your home with our guide to going solar.