Your Comprehensive Solar System Checklist

Going solar is a big step towards independence, but diving in blind is asking for trouble (and wasted cash). This checklist cuts through the salesman smoke and mirrors. Use it to ask the right questions, compare apples-to-apples, and make sure you build a system that actually delivers freedom, not just headaches. Don’t get screwed – get prepared.

Phase 1: Know Thyself (And Thy Property)

Figure Out Your Power Hunger Grab 12 months of power bills. What’s your average daily/monthly kWh use? Any big power hogs (AC, well pump, workshop)?

What’s the Damn Point? Just cutting bills? Need backup when the grid croaks? Aiming for full off-grid freedom? Your goal shapes the system.

Inspect Your Roof (Or Ground Space) How old is the roof? Any damage? Enough sunny space clear of shade (trees, chimneys)? Can it hold the weight? (Ground mount an option?)

Phase 2: The Money & The Grunts

Get Multiple Quotes (Don’t Trust the First Smooth Talker) Aim for 3-4 detailed quotes. Compare price per watt ($/W). Ensure ALL costs are listed (gear, labor, permits).

How Are You Paying for This Beast? Cash? Loan? Lease? PPA? Understand who OWNS the system and who gets incentives (Hint: Owning is usually best for independence). Watch out for sneaky lease/PPA price hikes!

Vet the Installers (Don’t Hire Clowns) Are they licensed & insured? How long in business? Check reviews (BBB, Google). Ask for references. NABCEP certified? Avoid high-pressure BS.

Phase 3: The Hardware & The Handshakes

Check the Panels (The Sun Catchers) Efficiency? Wattage? How well do they handle heat? What’s the actual warranty (product AND performance)? Reputable brand?

Check the Charge Controller (The Brain Box) MPPT or PWM? Can it handle your panel/battery voltage & amps? Compatible with your battery type?

Check the Batteries (The Heart) Lithium (LiFePO4 best) or Lead-Acid? Capacity (kWh/Ah)? How many cycles? What’s the *real* warranty (years, cycles, AND total energy/throughput)?

Check the Inverter (The Translator) PURE SINE WAVE ONLY! (No excuses). Continuous & Surge wattage meet your needs? Warranty length?

Read ALL the Warranties (The Fine Print Matters) Panel Product? Panel Performance? Inverter? Battery (check cycles/throughput)? Installer Workmanship (covers leaks/bad wiring)? Who backs each warranty?

Hunt Down Incentives (Free Money?) Federal Tax Credit? State credits/rebates? Local utility perks? SRECs? Who files the paperwork?

Phase 4: The Dotted Line

Read the Damn Contract (Every. Single. Word.) Does it list the EXACT gear quoted? Correct price & payment terms? Clear scope of work? Timeline? Understand cancellation penalties. Don’t sign if you have questions!

Use this checklist like a weapon. Stay sharp, ask the tough questions, and build the system that puts *you* in control. Good luck.

Provided by OffGridPowerHub.com – Your partner in energy independence.