The average residential solar system costs .50–.40 per watt installed in 2026. A typical 7kW system runs 7,500–4,000. See our full 2026 cost breakdown.
No — the 30% federal residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025. Homeowners purchasing systems in 2026 pay full price without that credit, though some state incentives may still apply. Read our full explanation.
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity via the photovoltaic effect, then an inverter converts that DC power into usable AC power for your home. See our simple explanation.
Net metering is a billing system where your utility credits you for excess solar power sent back to the grid. It significantly affects your real savings — read our full guide.
It depends on your goals — backup power during outages, maximizing self-consumption, or eliminating grid dependence. See our battery storage analysis.
No. We don't collect personal information through our calculators and don't sell leads. See our Privacy Policy.
Most roofs are, but orientation, shading, age, and structural condition all matter. See our roof suitability guide.
Most panels are warrantied for 25 years and can last 30+ years with gradual efficiency decline. See our lifespan breakdown.
High-pressure tactics, unrealistic savings claims, and no written contract details are common warning signs. See our red flags guide.