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Solar Information

: Basic Information

Solar Panel Buying Guide

Download your free copy of our Solar Panel Buying Guide to learn everything you need to know about picking the perfect solar panels for your system.

Battery Buying Guide

Batteries allow you to store energy generated by your panels for later use. Download this free Battery Buying Guide to learn how to size your battery bank and pick the best batteries for your application.

Inverter Buying Guide

Inverters manage the flow of power through your system. Download this free Inverter Buying Guide to learn how the right inverter can help you optimize your system's production.

Racking Buying Guide

Racking provides a solid foundation for your array and tilts your panels toward the sun to optimize output. Download this free Solar Racking Guide to explore the best way to mount your system.

Federal Tax Credit Guide

When you go solar, part of your project costs can be claimed under the Solar Investment Tax Credit to offset a portion of your federal taxes. Download this guide to learn how to claim the credit.

Solar Permit Guide

Learn how to file permits through your local building office and connect your system to the utility grid (if applicable). Separate guides are available for both Grid-Tied and Off-Grid systems.

Getting Started Guide

Not sure whether going solar is right for you? Grab your free copy of this guide to Getting Started With Solar and get a handle on the basics.

Why you should oversize your PV array by 10-20%

Solar arrays should be sized 10-20% larger than your inverter's input rating to maximize your system's production. Here's how to find the "sweet spot" when sizing your array.

Video: 8 common system design mistakes

Senior design tech Cheyenne explains 8 common mistakes people make when designing a solar power system.

How to add battery backup to your grid-tie system

Learn how to retrofit your existing grid-tie solar system with energy storage to protect against power outages and make the most of your utility's net metering policies.

Video: How to size an off-grid solar-system

Senior design tech Jeremy explains how to properly design and size an off-grid solar system to meet your energy usage needs.

How big are solar panels?

Wondering how many panels you can fit on your roof? This guide covers the dimensions of traditional solar panels to help you plan the physical layout of your array.

Video: Ground mount or roof mount racking?

Senior design tech Jeremy explains the pros and cons of ground-mount and roof-mount racking systems.

Guide to solar cell technology

Learn the pros and cons of a variety of solar technologies. Covers monocrystalline vs. polycrystalline vs. thin-film panels, N-Type vs. P-Type cells, and more.

Video: SolarEdge HD-Wave with EV charger product overview

Purchasing manager Courtney gives a quick overview of the SolarEdge HD-Wave 7600-watt inverter with a built-in electric vehicle charger.

Net metering guide

Net metering policies allow grid-tie solar system owners to receive credit for sending electricity into the public utility grid. In turn, those credits are used to offset the customer's energy bill.

Case Study: Dave and Sher

Hailing from Wisconsin, Dave wrote a report for the Clean Water Action Council about why going solar is a sound financial decision - even in a climate that gets about 40 days of snow per year.

Video: How to calculate solar payback period

In this quick 3-minute video, we'll help you figure out how long it will take for you to pay back your investment into solar.

Crown CR-430 battery review

Read our review of the Crown CR-430, a cost-effective flooded lead-acid battery from an established manufacturer, suitable for use in all battery-based systems.

Video: What are the best solar batteries?

Senior design tech Jeremy explains the pros and cons of lithium and lead-acid batteries, and gives his picks for the best battery brands on the market.

Fullriver DC400-6 battery review

Fullriver's AGM batteries are maintenance-free, making them a great choice for battery banks that go a long time between uses (like a vacation home or a grid-tie backup system).

Introduction to Charge Controllers

Charge controllers are essential in battery-based systems. Their job is to regulate charging voltage so the battery bank remains topped off and healthy without overcharging.

Battery maintenance tips

Flooded lead-acid batteries require routine maintenance to stay in good shape. Follow these battery maintenance tips to care for your battery bank.

Mission Solar panel review

Texas-based Mission Solar produces high-efficiency solar panels that are priced to compete with imported panels.

IRS Form 5695 guide: how to claim the solar tax credit

This step-by-step guide explains how to fill out IRS Form 5695, which is required to claim your federal tax credit for going solar.

Astronergy solar panel review

Astronergy produces budget-friendly imported solar panels backed by a third-party warranty.

Generator sizing guide

Many off-grid solar systems are paired with a gas generator for backup power. Learn what size generator you need to pair seamlessly with your solar system.

SolarEdge HD-Wave review

The SolarEdge HD-Wave with power optimizers is designed to maximize your array's production, even when your panels are obstructed from shade or inclement weather. Read our review.

SMA Sunny Boy review

The Sunny Boy is a cost-effective inverter that shines in situations where your solar panels are unobstructed and will be fully exposed to sunlight year-round. Read our review.

Enphase IQ7+ review

Each IQ7+ micro-inverter controls the output of a single panel, optimizing the system's overall output and isolating equipment failures. Read our review.

Solar panel warranty guide

Most solar panels are warrantied for 25 years, but there are other details to consider, like minimum production guarantees and third party insurance. Learn what to look for as you evaluate solar panel warranties.

String inverters vs. micro-inverters

String inverters are more cost-effective, while micro-inverters do a better job optimizing your array's production. Learn the pros and cons of each type of inverter to decide which is right for you.

String sizing guide

Panel strings must be sized so that the voltage from the panels falls within the operating range of the inverter or charge controller. Proper string sizing is key to safe and efficient system design.

Do solar panels work in the snow?

Learn what steps you can take to ensure your solar panels work as efficiently as possible during snowy winters.

California solar mandate guide

Starting in 2020, California will require all newly-built homes to be outfitted with solar. This article explains how CA homebuilders and homebuyers can comply with the new regulations.

Best solar racking products

Racking is the foundation on which solar panels are mounted. Read our picks for the best racking products on the market.

Best portable solar panels

Living life on the road? Check out our picks for the best portable solar panels for RVs, boats, and other mobile applications.

How to size a grid-tie solar system

Senior design tech Wil B. gives a step-by-step walkthrough of the system design process, explaining how to account for factors that are unique to your project.

Lead-acid battery comparison

Compare the pros and cons of each type of lead-acid battery: flooded, gel, and AGM (absorbent glass mat), to decide which makes the most sense for your system.

How to size an off-grid solar system

Learn how to size your off-grid system based on your location, energy requirements, and desired days of autonomy (how long the system can run off batteries between charge cycles).

What is the optimal angle to tilt your solar panels?

Solar panels should face directly into the sun to optimize their output. This article explains how to find the right tilt and azimuth angle to get the most production out of your array.

Are solar trackers worth it?

Solar trackers adjust automatically to face the sun, increasing the output of your panels. However, it's usually more cost-effective to buy a few more panels instead of investing in a tracker.

Solar panel cost guide

Explore historical pricing trends dating back to 1998 and learn what factors influence the cost of solar panels. Includes sample packages to help you benchmark the current cost of solar.

Lead-acid vs. lithium battery comparison

Lithium batteries cost more than lead-acid batteries upfront, but also enjoy a longer lifespan and don't require maintenance. Compare both options to decide which is right for your project.

The pros and cons of solar

We're huge advocates for solar power (obviously), but we recognize that going solar isn't right for everyone. Read about the pros and cons of going solar to decide if it's right for you.

Grid-tied vs. off-grid solar

In this article, we cover the differences between grid-tie and off-grid solar, and explain why grid-tie is usually the better option for people with access to power lines.

What is a kilowatt hour?

Electricity usage is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWhs), which can be found on your electric bill. Understanding your monthly kWh usage is the first step to properly sizing a solar energy system.

SolarEdge HD-Wave + EV Charger review

The SolarEdge HD-Wave combines an inverter for your solar system with an integrated EV charger for your electric vehicle. Read our review.

Best grid-tie solar inverters

Inverters are the "brain" of your solar power system, managing the flow of power throughout the system. Check out our picks for the best grid-tied inverters on the market.

Best solar panels

Explore our picks for the best solar panels on the market in a variety of categories. Includes American-made panels, budget-friendly panels, portable panels, and more.

Lithium battery comparison: Discover vs. SimpliPhi

Compare the pros and cons of Discover and SimpliPhi, two quality manufacturers of lithium-ion batteries for solar applications.

8 costly system design mistakes to avoid

Mistakes during the system design process can be costly. In this article, we go over 8 common mistakes people make when they plan and design their system.

How to find a local solar installer you can trust

Hiring a local solar installer can help you save a good chunk of money on your solar project. Read our tips on how to find an installer you can trust.

Best solar batteries

Check out our picks for the best solar batteries for a variety of applications, including off-grid homes, vacation cabins, RV/mobile systems, and storage for grid-tie backup power.

What is MPPT (maximum power point tracking)?

MPPT charge controllers continuously monitor and adjust the charging voltage from your solar panels to optimize the amount of power being produced.

60-cell vs. 72-cell solar panels

There is no cost-per-watt difference between 60-cell and 72-cell panels, but space constraints may force you to choose one option over the other.

How to install solar on a tiny home

We've been installing tiny homes for years. Check out this video with Brent as he show us how to install the tiny home of your dreams.

How long do solar panels last?

Most panels are warrantied by 25 years, but a study shows that 80% of panels outlive their warranty.

How many solar panels do I need?

This guide explains how to quickly estimate system size based on your energy use, then figure out how many panels you'll need to offset your bill.

Expanding your off-grid solar system

In off-grid systems, the power from your solar panels needs to match the storage capacity of your battery bank. Here's how to ensure your components stay compatible when expanding an off-grid system.

Ground mount or roof mount?

Ground mounts are more accessible for maintenance, while roof mounts cost less. Click for a full comparison of the pros and cons of ground mounts vs. roof mounts.

Study: solar panels increase property value

A recent study found that homes equipped with solar sell for more than equivalent non-solar homes. Learn how adding solar to your home can increase property value.

Best off-grid inverters

Read our picks for the best inverters on the market for a variety of applications, including full-time residences, vacation homes, and solar+storage systems.

Financing your system: buy, lease, or loan?

What's the smartest way to finance your system? We compare the cost of three options: buying it outright, taking out a personal loan, or entering a lease agreement.

Calculators And Tools

Solar Crash Course

This free course is designed to give newcomers a grasp on the fundamentals of solar power in 1-2 hours. For more in-depth learning, explore our free Solar Workshop.

Join Crash Course

Calculators And Tools

Solar Workshop

This free workshop takes a deep dive into all things solar, for those who like to research and understand every detail about their project. For a quicker primer on solar, explore our free Solar Crash Course.

Solar 101: FAQs for beginners

New to the world of solar and not sure where to start? Explore our Solar 101 page for answers to the most frequently asked questions we hear from newcomers.

Calculators And Tools

Solar Cost Calculator

Enter your ZIP code and monthly energy usage (found on your electric bill) to get a quick and easy estimate on how much it would cost you to go solar.

Calculators And Tools

Off-Grid Solar Calculator

Enter your ZIP code and daily energy consumption data to estimate what size system you might need to power your off-grid property.

How to calculate solar return on investment (ROI)

Solar pays for itself by reducing your monthly power bill, eventually turning a profit when the initial investment is paid for. Learn how to calculate the payback period and ROI of your system.

Solar financing options

Explore financing options including personal loans, leases and PPAs (power purchase agreements), and learn how each option impacts the ROI of your system.

US sun hours map

Your solar system's production will change based on how much sun you get in your area. Check this US map to see how many daily sun hours you get (on average) in your location.

Case study: Troy and Suzanne

This couple from West Virgina started small and expanded on their system as their budget allowed. They'll save more than $16,000 over the life of their system, even in one of the least solar-friendly states in the country.

Introduction to DIY solar

Take control of your solar project by sourcing your parts directly and installing your own system. This DIY solar timeline gives an overview of the entire process.

Calculators And Tools

Local solar incentives database

Explore our database of local & state tax credits, rebates, and incentive programs that reduce the cost of going solar. These incentives can be claimed in addition to the federal solar tax credit, so don't miss out!

Browse Incentives

How to choose the right off-grid inverter

Inverters come in different configurations depending on whether they need to feed into the utility grid or connect a battery bank. This article explains what to look out for when choosing an off-grid inverter.

Why we don’t recommend solar leases

Though leases offer a way to go solar with no up-front cost, the terms of solar leases drastically cut into your system's ROI. We strongly recommend exploring other financing options before signing a solar lease.

Electrical wiring diagram service

Our in-house tech team can provide an electrical wiring diagram with your order, which is needed to file permits with your utility company and local building office.

Shipping information

Helpful tips on receiving your freight shipment, unboxing and sorting your order, and filing any potential damage claims.

Case Study: Stacy

Stacy went solar for less than what it would have cost to run power lines to his off-grid property - and built the entire system by himself. See how he did it.

Calculators And Tools

Battery bank sizing calculator

Quickly and easily size your battery bank based on your personal energy usage. This tool provides an estimate that can be refined based on usage patterns once you consult with your design technician.

Video: Programming your power center

In this video, Josh the Tech Guy explains how to program a Magnum MS4448PAE inverter with a Midnite Classic 150 charge controller.

Video: Programming your automatic generator start module

Josh the Tech Guy explains how to program your automatic generator start module so that your generator turns on automatically when needed for backup power.

Video: How to use a refractometer

Josh the Tech Guy demonstrates how to use a refractometer to test the state of charge on flooded lead-acid batteries.

Video: Adjusting charge settings on Magnum chargers

Josh the Tech Guy explains how to program AC input amps (shore amps) and charge rate settings on Magnum Energy ME-RC 50 and ME-ARC remotes.

Video: Dipswitch settings on Morningstar TriStar charge controllers

Josh The Tech Guy talks about dipswitch adjustments on the Morningstar TriStar charge controller.

5 quick tips for a safe install

Installing your own system? Follow these 5 quick safety tips to protect yourself.

Video: Dipswitch settings on MidNite Classic Lite charge controller

Josh the Tech Guy explains how to access and adjust the dipswitch settings in a MidNite Solar Classic Lite charge controller.

17 common myths about solar power

Has anyone ever told you that solar panels don't work in the winter, or that solar is too expensive to pay for itself? We dispel these myths (and 15 others) in this article.

Video: How to attach spring clamp connectors

Josh the Tech Guy demonstrates how to properly attach spring clamp connectors, which are found in many solar components.

Video: Programming Magnum Energy battery monitor kit

Josh the Tech Guy demonstrates how to program the Magnum Energy ME-BMK Battery Monitor Kit using the Magnum Energy ME-ARC Remote Control.

Guide to solar tax breaks

Tax credits, rebates, and exemptions, oh my! Learn about the various incentives available that can reduce the cost of your solar power system.

53 ways to lower your energy usage

Lowering your energy usage can save you money on the cost of your solar power system, because it will take less production to offset your monthly bill. Check out these 53 tips to reduce your consumption.

The effect of shade on solar panels

Shade can dramatically reduce the output of solar panels, but micro-inverters or a string inverter with power optimizers can mitigate the loss of production.

Calculators And Tools

SolarEdge monitoring portal demo

Curious about the data your monitoring software can provide you? Take a live look at the SolarEdge monitoring portal for the system installed on the roof of our Mount Shasta office.

Wire sizing guide

Properly sized wires prevent against voltage drop and ensure your system runs as efficiently as possible.

Adding wind power to your renewable energy system

In areas with high wind speeds, wind power can be an effective supplement to your solar power system. Read our introduction to wind power to see if it makes sense for you.

Calculators And Tools

Voltage drop calculator

Voltage drop is a slight loss of voltage as a result of current traveling through a wire. This calculator helps you determine the ideal wire size to minimize voltage drop in your system.

Solar permitting info

Before you can install your system, you'll need to file for a permit with your local building authority and (for grid-tied systems) your utility company. Here's what you need to know about permitting your system.

Solar panel efficiency guide

Efficient panels allow you fit more power into a smaller area, which is great if there are space constraints where you plan to build your system.

Is a solar lease worth it?

Under solar leases, you don't get to claim your tax credits, you're still subject to inflation, and they can make selling your home more difficult. Read about why we typically don't recommend leases to our customers.

Power consumption table

This chart lists the approximate energy consumption of common household appliances. Useful for estimating daily power consumption while designing an off-grid system.

Introduction to solar panel mounts

Your system is only as strong as the racking it's mounted on. Get a basic overview of solar racking products to learn which is right for your project.

Introduction to solar inverters

Inverters manage the flow of power throughout your system, converting DC (direct current) from panels into AC (alternating current) to power your appliances. Click to learn the basics.

Video: Magnum Energy PT-100 charge controller overview

Josh the Tech Guy takes us on a tour of the brand new Magnum Energy PT-100 charge controller.

Do solar panels work during a power outage?

For grid-tied systems, your solar panels won't work during a power outage unless you add energy storage to your system.

Grounding and lightning protection

Lightning can damage your inverter, charge controllers and other sensitive electronics. Learn how to properly ground your system to protect against damage from static discharge.

Video: Schneider Conext SW inverter overview

Josh the Tech Guy shows off the new Conext SW 2524 Inverter and Conext ComBox for controlling your system online from your computer or mobile device.

Introduction to deep-cycle batteries

Learn the basics about deep-cycle batteries, used to store energy in off-grid and grid-tie + energy storage systems.

Video: How to install solar panels on your roof

Resident installation pro Jeremy gives a 22-minute hands-on demonstration of how to install solar panels on your roof.

Commercial solar systems

Explore general info about commercial solar systems, including financing information, interconnection requirements, and sample system packages.

Video: Which batteries are right for me?

Not sure which batteries will work best for your system? Watch this 4-minute video outlining the best battery types for a variety of applications.

Pros & cons of solar leases & PPAs (Power Purchase Agreements)

Solar leases and PPAs offer homeowners a way to go solar for no up-front cost, but the tradeoff is much lower ROI over the life of the system. Learn how they work.

Calculators And Tools

CA solar mandate calculator

Under a new mandate, all homes built in California must be equipped with solar power. Use this calculator to see what size system you'll need to meet the requirements.

Video: What’s in an off-grid solar system?

Need to produce power off the grid? In under 2 minutes, design tech Jeremy gives an overview of the components you need to make your off-grid solar system work.

How does the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) work?

When you go solar, a significant portion of your project costs can be claimed as a credit toward your federal taxes. Learn how the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) works.

AC watts vs. DC watts

Knowing the difference between AC and DC watts is crucial to understanding system sizing and eligibility for incentives, among other things. This article brings you up to speed.

Video: What are the different types of solar systems?

Wondering what type of solar system works best for your needs? Learn the difference between grid-tie, off-grid, and grid-tie+energy storage systems with this short video.

Unbound Solar referral program

Know someone who's interested in going solar? Refer them to Unbound Solar and receive up to $199 for each person that buys from us!

Video: Solar panel mounting options

In this video, product manager Josh explains the pros and cons of different mounting options, including roof mounts, ground mounts, and pole mounts.

Unbound Solar installer program

Local installers partner with Unbound Solar to receive dealer discounts and expert support from our in-house tech team. Read about the benefits of becoming a Unbound Solar partnered installer.

Video: Best grid-tied solar inverters

Senior design technician Cheyenne gives an overview of the best grid-tied inverters on the market, weighing the pros and cons of inverters manufactured by SolarEdge, SMA, Enphase and Magnum Energy.

What are bifacial solar panels?

Bifacial solar panels absorb light on both sides, giving them a modest efficiency boost over traditional panels.

Video: Sizing grid-tied solar systems

Product Manager Josh gives an overview of how to properly size your grid-tie solar system based on your personal energy usage.

How to save money by hiring a local solar installer

Customers who source their own solar equipment and hire a local installer save an estimated 20% on their project. This step-by-step guide walks you through the process.

Customer showcase gallery

Looking for inspiration for your solar project? Browse photo galleries and interviews from real customers who went solar on their own terms. If they did it, so can you!

Video: Designing a wind & solar hybrid system

Produced in collaboration with Primus Windpower, this 1-hour webinar goes over the principles of designing a hybrid wind+solar energy system.

Video: How long do solar panel systems last?

Most solar panels are warrantied for 25 years, but other components typically have shorter warranties. Learn how long you can expect your system to last, and when you should plan for part replacements.

What is a micro-inverter?

Micro-inverters control the output of a single solar panel. The one-to-one nature of micro-inverters optimizes your array's production and isolates equipment failure. Learn more about their pros and cons.

The most frequently asked questions about solar

Read our answers to the most common questions that newcomers have about the process of going solar.

Are solar panels worth it?

Wondering how long it will take for your solar system to pay for itself? This guide helps you calculate your energy savings to decide whether solar is worth it for you.

What is voltage drop?

"Voltage drop" refers to the slight loss of efficiency that occurs as electrical current travels through a wire. Learn how to design your system to minimize the impact of voltage drop.

Video: What are solar trackers?

In this video, our Product Manager Courtney explains how solar trackers work - and why we typically don't recommend them for residential solar owners.

Download "Getting Started With Solar"

New to solar? Download our free guide to learn the basics and get started designing a system that’s right for you.

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