Solar DIY
DIY solar panel installation guides, solar savings calculators, and state-by-state incentive breakdowns. Average homeowner saves $1,200–$2,000/year after going solar.
23 articles
 on a home in Ohio](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.unsplash.com%2Fphoto-1528360983277-13d401cdc186%3Fw%3D1200%26q%3D80&w=3840&q=75)
[Solar Incentives](/blog/solar-incentives-arizona-2026) in Ohio: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to [solar incentives](/blog/solar-incentives-california-2026) in Ohio for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Solar Incentives in North Carolina: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to solar incentives in North Carolina for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Solar Incentives in Georgia: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to solar incentives in Georgia for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Solar Incentives in New Jersey: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to solar incentives in New Jersey for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Solar Incentives in New York: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to solar incentives in New York for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Solar Incentives in Colorado: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to solar incentives in Colorado for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Solar Incentives in Arizona: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to solar incentives in Arizona for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Solar Incentives in California: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to solar incentives in California for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Solar Incentives in Florida: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to solar incentives in Florida for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Are Solar Panels Worth It in 2026? I Did the Actual Math
Not a solar company. Not a government pamphlet. Just honest math on solar panel ROI, real payback numbers, and the specific cases where solar is a bad idea.
How Many Solar Panels to Run an Air Conditioner? (Real Math, Real Numbers)
How many solar panels do you need to power an air conditioner? We calculate exact panel counts for window AC, mini-split, and central AC units with real wattage numbers.
 on a home in Texas](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.unsplash.com%2Fphoto-1469474968028-56623f02e42e%3Fw%3D1200%26q%3D80&w=3840&q=75)
[Solar Incentives](/blog/solar-incentives-arizona-2026) in Texas: Every Rebate, Credit & Program in 2026
Complete guide to [solar incentives](/blog/solar-incentives-california-2026) in Texas for 2026: federal tax credit, state programs, utility rebates, net metering policy, and real cost examples.
Renogy 400W Solar Kit Review: Best DIY Off-Grid Solar Setup in 2026?
The Renogy 400W solar kit is the most popular DIY off-grid solar package on the market. I installed and ran one for several months on a cabin and RV. Here's what works, what to watch out for, and whether it's worth the money.
How to Clean Solar Panels (DIY): Boost Output 5–25% in 30 Minutes
Dirty solar panels lose 5–25% of their output. Professional cleaning costs $150–$300. Here's how to safely do it yourself in 30 minutes with a garden hose.
Passive Solar Home Design: Free Heat from the Sun (No Panels Required)
Passive solar design uses window placement, thermal mass, and overhangs to heat homes for free. These principles apply to renovations, not just new builds.
Solar Financing: Loan vs Lease vs PPA — Which Makes You the Most Money?
How you pay for solar matters as much as which panels you buy. A solar loan builds equity; a lease means the installer keeps the tax credit. Here's the full breakdown.
Net Metering Explained: How to Get Credit for Your Solar Energy
Net metering lets you sell excess solar power back to the grid. But policies vary wildly by state — here's what you need to know before going solar.
Home Solar Battery Storage: Is a Powerwall Worth It in 2026?
Solar battery storage costs $10,000–$15,000 installed. We break down when it pays off, which batteries are worth it, and the alternatives you should consider first.
DIY vs Professional Solar Installation: Which Is Right for You?
We break down the real costs, risks, and savings of DIY solar vs. hiring a pro — with a decision framework to help you choose the right path.
Best Solar Panel Kit for RV in 2025: What I Installed + What I'd Do Differently
I installed a 400W solar system on my travel trailer. Here's the complete kit guide — what works, what to avoid, and the exact components for three budget levels.
DIY Solar Water Heater: I Built One for $340 and Cut Water Heating 70%
A thermosiphon solar water heater is one of the highest-ROI DIY energy projects. Here's the complete build guide with materials list and real cost data.
Portable Solar Generator Buying Guide: What Nobody Tells You Before You Buy
After testing 6 portable solar generators, here's what to look for beyond the spec sheet — and the specs that are actually meaningless.
How Do Solar Panels Work? A Plain-English Explainer (No Physics Degree Required)
Solar panels seem like magic — sunlight in, electricity out. Here's exactly how it works, what affects output, and whether your roof makes sense for solar.