Avoid Solar Industry Scams! w/ Alternative Methods to Install a Professional System On A Budget

If you need more help to avoid getting ripped off, check out our forum! diysolarforum.com
We also have a section to post your resume if you are an installer: diysolarforum....
If you have a job you wish to share with other installers, we have a section for that too! diysolarforum....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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Renogy
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[@WillProwse]

If you need more help to avoid getting ripped off, check out our forum! diysolarforum.com We also have a section to post your resume if you are an installer: diysolarforum.com/forums/offgrid-system-installers.87/ If you have a job you wish to share with other installers, we have a section for that too! diysolarforum.com/forums/need-help-post-your-job-request-here.89/ Also here is my tesla referral link: ts.la/william57509 And if you want budget friendly solar systems, check them out here: mobile-solarpower.com *Does off-grid solar confuse you?* Check out my DIY friendly website for solar system packages and product recommendations, and so much more! www.mobile-solarpower.com *Join our DIY solar community* #1 largest solar forum on the internet for beginners and professionals alike: www.diysolarforum.com *Check out my Book* Best-selling and beginner-friendly guide to 12V off-grid solar! amzn.to/2Aj4dX4 If DIY is not for you, but you love solar and need an offgrid system, check out Tesla Energy! They will price out a system and get your house offgrid: ts.la/william57509 *My DIY Solar Equipment Recommendations (Constantly updated! Check here first):* 12V/48V Lithium Solar Batteries: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-batteries.html Complete Solar System Component Directory: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solarcomponents.html Complete 48V System Blueprint: www.mobile-solarpower.com/48v-complete-system-blueprint.html Plug-N-Play System Recommendations: www.mobile-solarpower.com/full-size-systems.html Complete "Add to Cart" 48V System Kits: www.mobile-solarpower.com/complete-48v-solar-kits.html DIY Friendly Air Conditioner/ Heat Pumps: www.mobile-solarpower.com/solar-friendly-air-conditioners.html *My Favorite Online Stores for DIY Solar Products:* *Signature Solar* Offgrid One-Stop-Shop. Best Value 48V LiFePO4, Victron and Offgrid Specific Heat Pumps: www.signaturesolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Current Connected* SOK, Victron, Mr.Cool Heatpumps and High Quality Components. Fantastic customer support: currentconnected.com/?ref=wp *Litime* My favorite 12V budget battery!: www.litime.com/?ref=XBIA62RFcalHns *Epoch Batteries* My favorite high-quality 12V battery: www.epochbatteries.com/products/12v-460ah-lifepo4-battery-ip67-heated-bluetooth-victron-comms?rfsn=7352625.50494d *Renogy* A classic 12V solar store that has been around for ages! DC to DC Chargers and more! renogy.sjv.io/n1VjXx *Rich Solar* Renogy's biggest competitor! Similar products, but at a better price: richsolar.com/?ref=h-cvbzfahsek *Battery Hookup* Cheap cell deals bit.ly/2mIxSqt 5% off code: diysolar *Contact Information:* I am NOT available for personal solar system consult! If you wish to contact me, this is my direct email: [e-mail] Join the forum at diysolarforum.com/ if you wish to hang out with myself and others and talk about solar *FTC Disclosure Statement and Disclaimers:* Every video includes some form of paid promotion or sponsorship. Some links on this youtube channel may be affiliate links. We may get paid if you buy something or take an action after clicking one of these. My videos are for educational purposes only. Information is subject to change/update at any time. Electricity is DANGEROUS and can kill. Be smart and use common sense :) DIY Solar Power with Will Prowse is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, An affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

[@SenatorPerry]

:-( The salesmen are posting in the comments trying to get people to go to their channels or push their business.

[@JimmyCall]

It's time Will for an ultimate RV power system video. Is it 48V, 24V or still 12V.

[@pip5461]

I could do with your expertise here in the UK...

[@justicator]

I think the problem I have had was trying to find out our local laws and regulations. Getting the permits and finding an electrician is very difficult. I ended up just doing everything DIY and making some lean to stands for 4x 100w panels and keeping it small scale offgrid because I can't mount to the building without the permits and electrician

[@andrewlamb8219]

This was super helpful! Thank you very much. I have recently been looking into solar for my house in Central Florida. It’s an old house that uses a lot of energy. Three refrigerators, a pool, a hot tub and two air conditioners. What would you recommend? That would not break the bank? To at least supplement if not, go totally off grid?

[@JOATMOFA]

I am a *STRONG ADVOCATE* on Solar DIY. I am an Electrical Engineer and find the exorbitant prices installers charge quite ludicrous!

[@dominique___1980]

I can do some of the DIY, but need someone smarter and licensed to help me do all the electrical connections. Wish you were closer to me. I'd love for you to take a look and help me out.

[@10MinuteADU]

Hi, I'm in California building an ADU in my backyard and am hoping to run new service (PG&E) underground from the utility pole to avoid having to mingle with the main house electrical. Do you have any leads on how to get the Single Line Diagrams and details needed for the permitting? I do residential remodels and am hoping I can learn how to do the install and will hire electrician for help if needed.

[@carolinerose5743]

That is why I don't already have a solar system! I'm not paying anyone $30K - $50K for a few days work.

[@LarryRichelli]

@@carolinerose5743 I have just gone through this thing with all the solar companies here in and near San Antonio. I just ask them one question....Do you know of Signature Solar?...if they answer no (which they all do) I tell them goodby. I only need someone to install my panels on the roof and that's all I need right now.

[@ChrisEudy-ut4rs]

Yep

[@ianmburke]

THIS! Is what makes Will Prowse the literal best solar KZbinr PERIOD.

[@dukeman7595]

I founjd the best installer. He is intelligent, goodlooking and very honest, that man is ME. I installed my own system and learned it is not rocket science, it's actually very simple once you understand what each component does and place it in it's proper order. Don't be intimated, lay them all out and follow the directions, it's that simple.

[@pchris6662]

Goodlooking is, after all, very important! I tell my wife that all the time :)

[@timdavis6088]

Same here! The best guy for the job was me!

[@michaelharmon833]

I did mine by my self with help

[@WillProwse]

😂😂😂

[@kyledewaal9332]

What guide did you use?

[@JakePusateri]

Yep, this is exactly what I did. I had to do my own permit, and found an electrician who was willing to work with me. Ordered all of the core components (panels, inverter, batteries, roof mounts) and he supplied the rest. It ended up being a bit of a learning job since he'd done the grid tie-in before but never ran the whole install. But he had good attention to detail and I love the outcome. 14.3kW on the roof, EG418kPV inverter, and 14kWh battery for $33k all-in (in Indiana).

[@WillProwse]

Thats a nice system for the price!!

[@jondavidmcnabb]

I live in Indiana and have a friend in Fishers. He would love to know the electrician you hired.

[@SSJRapter]

This is what I'm doing. I'm gonna be all in at 16k for the same stuff. The only thing I'm not sure was worth it is getting on my 7/12 roof and installing it myself. It's amazing how cheap the panels are compared to everything else to get solar to work.

[@ericnewton5720]

33 thousand dollars. What’s your ROI or are you off grid?

[@JakePusateri]

@@ericnewton5720 it’d save probably $10k to do it myself but I wasn’t looking to hang out on the roof for days. Power is cheap here so the ROI is like 10 years, but I didn’t get a battery for the ROI. It’s about resilience and reducing operating costs. And being “green”.

[@2cents422]

Thank you for this. I had a salesperson try this song and dance with I called them on their BS. Kept saying things like, "You'd be completely off grid." And "Say goodbye to your power bill." Such BS. Folks, educate yourself and build it yourself.

[@mikemuha7537]

I am an electrical contractor and you are spot on! I tell people all the time. All that matters is solar components, labor, and markup. Nothing else. No carbon credit bullshit or trees saved crap. Understand that they need your usage history to size the system, then they use thT info to lie to you and use against you.

[@boblossie3192]

GOD BLESS YOU ! ! ! ! To be honest - I haven't seen you for a while now - but I'm just 30 seconds into the video and you hit it right on the head! I'm a 67 year old disabled man that uses a wheelchair. I MUST have power for the things that make it so I can have quality of life - or just to live. The Universe sent me this video so you can help me survive should tough time come. You can't know how important your work is for so many. THANK YOU ! ! !

[@pyronmasters]

In 2018, my aunt spent 25k for 3.9kw of solar panels, an Outback 80a charge controller, a Schneider 6kw (8kw peak) inverter + a 5kw relion battery. WITH help from you videos, I got 4.5kw solar panels + same inverter with the 60a charge controller (will upgrade to the 100a soon) + 20kw lifepo4 battery for $16k. She got a “Professional” that vanished a year later (there goes the $2k warranty. I did it my self………. When I turned everything on, I was sweating like the bomb defuser guys on tv, BUT!!! System has been running fine for a year, now 4y left to make a profit, mine is “Off grid”

[@Smellslikegelfling]

How do you pull power from an off grid system to supplement your regular electricity usage, or do you not have access to utilities?

[@komlenkalpacina311]

The country is lucky to have such young people. I wish you all the best!

[@solfreshsolclean]

Love that you did this video. I work for a big company for the time being. Going to get my contractors license in the next few months and do reasonably.priced off grid systems for my customers. Thanks Will!

[@737smartin]

👍 Good luck getting going on your own!

[@ssoffshore5111]

Where are you located?

[@solfreshsolclean]

@@ssoffshore5111 florida panhandle

[@bobjones9727]

Thumbs up to you for being a great consumer advocate. We need more of this to expose these rip offs.

[@bobseguin2195]

your the best man, built my own following your directions, put the panels up myself, hired a electrician to tie it into my house, for legal reasons. I think he charged me $300.00, all works well, I just need some sun here in north west coast......lol

[@cookiedough5374]

Dont forget your tax credits. 30 percent

[@donaldreynolds4003]

Ground mount is the way to go!! I use my Victron MultiPlus II 3000 and SOK batteries setup for emergency backup power for grid failures due to hurricanes and other situations. After we got smacked by Hurricane Florence in 2018, I told my wife that we were never going to lose all of our food again. We talked solar versus a backup generator, and my wife was sold with solar as I explained to her that we can run the inverter 24/7 to power our freezers and fridge. My system is not grid tied, as I do not want my local government involved, and if they were to ask, I will tell them it is my generator!

[@phlogistanjones2722]

ABSOLUTELY! Mid Florida did the same. Plus I do not have to worry about stores of fresh fuel and replacement.

[@fauxque5057]

Central East Coast. After hurricane Irma we lost power for 2 weeks. I spent $3800. on a giant Winco tri fuel generator. 2021 I installed a 14kw system with 20. something in batteries. We lost power during a couple of storms and the solar did it's job. There is the fear of it all blowing away bit so far it's handled a Cat 2. 10 of my panels are leaning on the back fence and part of the storm prep I lay them flat on the ground. I plan on building a rack but I'm lazy. I also plan on selling the generator as I have never used it. But I'm lazy and haven't done that either. The plan is to sell it and buy a cheaper one just to charge the batteries if needed and then pocketing a few grand. That's one positive thing, the price of the same generator is now over $5100.

[@Smellslikegelfling]

I've been through a few hurricanes myself, and what was even worse than losing all the food is trying to sleep without AC in the summer. But the problem with building out a solar backup system with batteries on the off chance that I might lose power once or twice in 10 years is that it's at least 100x the cost of the food that would spoil. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to keep my AC going and TV on and food refrigerated during an outage. But I can't justify the cost for how little usage I would really get from the system.

[@vladimus9749]

@@Smellslikegelfling This is why I haven't bothered with a generator or solar yet in FL. Our power grid here is crazy reliable compared to the rest of the country. I've had extended power outages twice in over 20 years due to hurricanes. A handful of minor ones 2 hours or less. There's no ROI considering it "backup power". Electric is $.094/kwh so that's a tough payback as well. I'll do it eventually because I love the tech and find it fun.

[@friskydingo5370]

I have someone selling solar once a week at least knocking on my door as an engineer who did his owne solar I always tell them I'm not interested I already have solar they won't leave they will do anything and say anything to get you to sign up. I spend many hours explaining what you put in your video word for word thank you now I can send them a link to this video. I cannot beleave how many people get sucked in. IF YOUR LOOKING FOR SOLAR FOLLOW THIS VIDEOS ADVICE! Solar is not as expensive as the industry makes it seem thanks again. 👍

[@MyCabinLife]

I can't believe the amount of people that actually still open their door to strangers.

[@jjman533]

Wow. Get a sign on your door No Solar Solicitors. Better yet, get one that says No Solar Scammers.

[@rm5282]

​@JWLV be careful. Some of them want g to get inside your home to case the place.

[@vladimus9749]

I put a sign up that says "working from home. Do not knock or ring doorbell" has worked 100% of the time so far. They stop, spend a minute reading it, and turn around and leave.

[@stormraven4183]

Another great way is to look for RV solar installers and ask if they will do a house system. They typically have experience with multiple brands and types of systems, and they have battery system experience.

[@ckm-mkc]

Only if they are licensed electricians. Just because you can do it on an RV doesn't mean the person is licensed....

[@kenglass2121]

You rock thanks for teaching going to piss off a lot of companies

[@StevefromOhio1972]

Thank you for the information Will. Knowledge is power.The better informed we are, less chance of being taken advantaged of and getting ripped off. I have learned so much from this channel and your forum. Just be careful when you drill into those battery packs and try not to inhale those chemicals. Be safe William, always protect your health.

[@steveyaussy2832]

You are spot on as always. As a retired electrical contractor I did many solar installs and am constantly getting knocks on the door from poor salesmen just trying to make a living. I do engage them, but I make it clear I’m not buying. The biggest issue I have with the big company tactics is they say they represent my utility company which is a lie. The lease part is where they make their money by charging up to 3 times what a system should cost, leaving the homeowner with a huge cost to complete the sale of their house as no one wants to assume their lease.

[@chucklewis9938]

Excellent video and long overdue. The ripoffs and door to door salesmen are why there’s so much misinformation about what solar can and cannot do. I have at least 15 friends and family members who will swear that solar is a complete sham and won’t listen to a syllable from me because of these charlatans. My Dad always told to to be aware of simple answers to complex questions. You’ve outlined how , with a little work, you don’t have to be an expert to change your energy equation. Thanks!

[@john_in_phoenix]

Yes, please replace your roof first (if it needs it) before installing solar. Wait until it rains enough to check the new roof for leaks, then install solar. The wait until it rains enough to check for leaks could take 6 or more months in my area!

[@jmr]

Based on your user name I bet it does take a six months. 😂

[@kylewatson5133]

Or. Don't put solar on your roof if you can avoid it.

[@gerardboulin6324]

Great Video @WillProwse! I had one of the solar sales persons from Sunrun last year in 2023 and he lied to me at first that I would get 30% tax credit for having the solar system with them. Then I found out that i will only get the tax credit only if i own the solar system. So later on that same day I ask him again the same question about the tax credit then he said to me no I won't get the tax credit 🙃. In other words he wanted me to sign a lease while convincing me at the same time that it wasn't a lease 🤣🤣. Pure BS that I was getting from this sale person so I told him politely that I wasn't interested. He did come back on multiple occasions a couple months later to try his luck again but I didn't answer the door bell this time because it was the same person from Sunrun showing on my security camera 🤣. I would rather build the system myself or go with tesla solar system instead of getting ripped off by these other solar companies...

[@tkonzl6059]

Another great, great video. I went down the road of working with a solar door-knocker but pulled out at the last minute when I realized just how bad I was about to be ripped off. That's when I started watching Will's videos. This video pretty much encapsulates what I learned and it's fulfilling to watch, knowing I had it right. The installer is was the last piece I've been worrying about. Thanks for the Craigslist advice. I'll be moving forward sometime in 2024 or 2025 after some other projects are done.

[@TheRealBrasky]

3:18 - "They will use all their salesman tactics that they learned in their self-help books..." LMFAO this is so true!

[@kytkinpommiracing]

What

[@rickwilson478]

Yeah ,I really appreciate that Will made that comment. I can't stand people who follow the incredibly lame and annoying and dishonest sales tactics they learn from self help assh×les and the ridiculous, smug, aren't I so slick attitude they inevitably have. No integrity whatsoever.

[@ehudgavron9086]

Awesome as always, Will. I've been following your channel, and occasionally getting the local quotes and you're 100% right. They are double the cost, and want to roll it into a loan or lease. it's great you're letting installer post their resumes here. I'm in Tucson, Arizona, and I want a 33K battery system for whole house backup and solar to feed it. We never have more than three days in a row of cloudy days but we do have really hot days where PVs don't generate as much power as they can. The EG 18KPV is likely the answer, and the rest is just dollars. It's great to have a resource to go to. The local installers are not that resource. The system pricing is there. The batts need to get down another 20-40%. Once that happens the ROI will go from 9 years (7-9 promised) to 2-3 years (actual) and that makes it a no brainer. I can't even find an electrician willing to rewire the load panel because the house (1979 build) as everything in the front half wired to the same 15A breaker. When electricians and master electricians get less picky... and when batteries aren't $1000/100WA... that will be the time. Love your channel. I've learned so much. I love your attitude. Best wishes for your health! Ehud Tucson, Arizona

[@mx.olivia]

Consider vertical mount for managing that extreme heat, the Undecided channel with Matt Ferrell has an episode on them that was news to me

[@gadsdonflag4289]

For a young falla, you know your stuff....and your honesty is AMAZING!!! Thanks for posting!!!

[@frankthies221]

I had the knock on my door last summer. The company worked up a quote for a ground-mount 21KW grid-tie system. $77,000 if I paid cash! $96,000 if I wanted to finance ($32,000 down). Amazing that they even tried to charge that much. I looked up the panels, micro inverters, racking, cabling and misc hardware… I am DIY’g it and I Might break $30,000 I might not. I will see. Thanks for this video Will. Just spot on as usual!

[@olliemoose2020]

Yes those door knocker are f**king criminals stay well away from them

[@AZjoe52]

I love talking to the sales people, being a retired electrical engineer and a master electrician, I school the sales people. I've even got some of them coming back and asking me questions that they have been asked and can't answer. But, I also tell them to be truthful and transparent, and some has come back and told me that they have stopped working for XYZ companies because of the shady tactics they were told to use in the sales pitch.

[@fallbrkgrl]

Good for you! Teaching the younger generation is really important, especially in regards to ethical practices 👍

[@91CavGT5]

Thank you for doing that!! I’m not an EE but have taught some of the local door knocker salesmen some basics. It is sad that they are sent out and don’t even know what they are selling.

[@martingargas3217]

The best thing to do is watch Will's videos and do it yourself. I did and saved between 30 and 50,000 depending on the company

[@Lukeor]

I've been in solar for 12 years, I always hate working with salesman. They are a necessary evil as it's hard to get as much work as we need to stay busy. Every time I bid a job I know i'll hand it to the office/sales and they are going to work up the margin up to the breaking point. Like Will is saying, ask for the cash price and get a couple quotes then get your own financing. Most companies don't want to install your equipment, because that's their biggest margin for them. And if you get into permitting with a micky mouse system, you'll be looking at issues maybe with UL listing of racking with modules, TROv/frq compliance with inverters and RSD. Make sure your system is permittable in your area first. Make sure you have the required capacity in your service to add that solar. If you have 100amp service, you're only putting in 20a of solar.

[@Cardsfan6251]

Hopefully they are busy working and not on KZbin or I doubt you will get any more work.

[@Lukeor]

@@Cardsfan6251 I'm out of the residential market, thankfully.

[@jbranche8024]

My takeaway is 1. Order a roof inspection either by trusted Roofer or Home Inspector 2. Get quotes from trusted, vetted installers the provide everything (exclude financing) 3. Get quotes trusted, vetted installers for installing a packaged system if you are knowledgeable about your solar requirements. 4. Get quotes on financing. 5. Make sure final inspection is thorough and includes an inspection by someone knowledgeable about possible leakage from installation securing points on the roof. Will is what the Internet and KZbin should be about, providing helpful, knowledgeable, well researched information and making people aware of what is going on by some in the industry.

[@LarryRichelli]

@@jbranche8024 Trusted, vetted installers are hard to come buy here in Texas as all the big, ripoff companies hire them.

[@ChrisEudy-ut4rs]

​@@Cardsfan6251if that's the way it works

[@tedk2814]

Thanks Will, such great advice. last year, we "allowed " a solar salesman to give us a quote.. His was a lease deal, $100/month open ended. They would not give me a price of the system like if I wanted to pay for it outright. So when their company was running my info, they found out that my home was in a Trust for my children and they were going to need further paperwork in order to "take my property" if there was a default on the lease payments. I said good bye guys and that was that. I live in east coast of central Florida, we have Florida Flash and Flicker power company which I gotta say did a great job in getting our power on after both hurricanes. We have underground utilities in my neighbor hood and we are on the same grid as the local high school that is a public shelter, that takes priority for power restoring. love your channel and you have such a pleasant way of talking and explaining the DIY systems. Ted in Sebastian, Fl

[@gsantee]

@WillProwse thank you for advocating the best practices for the consumer on solar and batteries installs.

[@unpluggedtexan]

Agree 100%. Finding good installers is the hardest part. I have so many subscribers of mine that I’ve tried to help them find someone. It is extremely difficult. But so worth it after you finally have a good system with battery storage up and running. Another great video Will. Thanks for helping the average person!

[@Jack2of3]

Great Advice Will. An idea for a test. Durability of All-in-one and batteries subjected to shaking like in an RV. I'm considering the EG4-3K and some server rack batteries but I'm apprehensive due to the rigors of the environment they will be in with travel trailer suspensions being mini earthquakes while on the road.

[@waltfriedrich7631]

When t come to residential roofs....you need to have an engineering study done to avoid losing insurance coverage. Also the 2 major roofing manufacturers will void your warranty if a certified roofer does not do the anchors....this is true ...I had 3 customers this happened to.

[@soulmanm12954]

Bluetti EP 900, EP 800!!! All you need to know!

[@MyCabinLife]

Until an individual component inside of it breaks and you can't just service that you have to replace the whole thing.

[@donaldoarmand212]

thank you for this advice for non techies and non diy folk! please do more of this!

[@drthik1]

Work for the local utility and do some of the disconnects for solar installation companies and it's crazy the amt ppl spend on these systems. They avg $6 a watt.

[@cb.7814]

Thanks for all the great videos Will ! We live near Jackson, Michigan. We're pretty sure we can do 90% of the work installing the panels and batteries. Just like you said here, we are looking for a good qualified electrician to help with the other 10%. Anyone here live in Michigan have a good recommendation?

[@glleon80517]

Nailed it, Will. I called several companies when we moved to the Phoenix area about installing off-grid solar and they all laughed at me! I got two estimates from big solar companies and the prices were astronomical. Craig’s List Phoenix has exactly ONE listing for an independent installer. And my town requires a permit AND a professional engineer inspection before I can install panels on my roof. $$$ Unpermitted work on your residence can blow up in your face when you try to sell your home. Retired Realtor here, I have seen it happen. Not to mention insurance denial if there is a fire.

[@davemyer737]

Did you find one in phx area? If you did I would love to get info

[@jimanderson4444]

Go Will, this is the video I've been waiting for. Bro I need to build an offgrid system, yet l read they all require permitting. I'm in Phoenix , neighbors with Santan ! I'll look further, thanks for the inspiration, I live for this,, Jim

[@mgkleym]

Might want to talk to north Arizona solar. Their a distributor for a ton of off and on grid solar hardware and have been around forever. They saved me quite a bit on freight when I was buying the solar panels for my rv by letting me pick them up on my way thought flagstaff instead of trying to ship two 420 watt panels to my home in tulsa. I mostly know about them via bob wells.

[@k5edd128]

Smiling! Getting my education watching your videos. Thank you, you're like the one stop shop for all things battery and solar. I had not kept up with the technology and was surprised by all the new gear out there.

[@lijay1]

Another tip for finding an installer: I actually went with tesla, but the first time the installers came out, one of them talked to me on the side and was like “look, if you want to add on to this or do something more later on, give me a call.” So that could be a way to find somebody. Just… Call Tesla 😅

[@coldfinger459sub0]

Hundred percent true everything you said. One of the big problems with solar you mentioned the roof . Even if it’s a good brand new roof.. sometimes the installers are not familiar with all the different types of roof systems and do not know how to properly seal watertight the mounting hardware to the roof surface. It may not leak the first year or the second year, but it starts leaking water and slowly causing damage up in the wood in the rafters for a long period of time rotting the wood before it actually comes into the house and causes damage on the wall that you can visibly see. This is a really big problem finding guys know how to properly connect and seal the roofing hardware especially in extremely windy locations .

[@sonictech1000]

Good point. There are electricians and roofers but probably not so many who are good at both.

[@whattheschmidt]

I recommend Quickbolt 2 - that's what I did and have had zero issues with them. You do NOT disturb the shingles / remove nails and I'm in a northern climate without issues.

[@LarryRichelli]

@@whattheschmidt are you talking about the Multi Roof Mount - QB2 Kit with 3" Microflashing and Stainless Steel L-Foot?

[@Le_Comte_de_Monte_Felin]

@@sonictech1000 Yep. A brain surgeon can change his car's oil... but asking the oil guy to do brain surgery isn't the smartest thing to do!

[@smile-twice]

HA HA! "They'll use all their salesman tactics that they read in their self help books!" That made me bust out in laughter. Thanks for that, lol. Your videos are really great, thanks for being so honest and thorough in all that you do for people from all walks who are interested in solar. I have learned a great deal from your efforts and knowledge and always look forward to more from you.

[@PaulAtreidesMuadDib]

Great Vid. When I started looking at solar I was given a quote for more money than my mortgage. I didn't fall for it. Complete Scam. Got your book and looking at buying my own DIY system and going to do as you advise. I already have a trusted Electrician that I'm going to use and will find someone to install the panels on the roof. Craigslist is a great Tip! I'm going to use that tip to get someone to install a NG Line for my backup generator.

[@Electronzap]

Sounds like great tips. Definitely build smaller systems similar to what you might get, or at least watch a lot of videos about them. Never want to hand over a bunch of money to someone just because you trust that the person doing the work has your best interests in mind when you have no idea what is going on.

[@nylonstringninja]

Apparently the people that owned my house before me installed the salesman grid tie system and then had it unmounted and reinstalled to replace the roof. It never seemed to work right and when we started looking at it whoever they let put it back on the new roof plugged half the panels in a loop and they weren't even tied to the inverter. There were loose improperly installed brackets, loose and burnt wire connections and the inverter eventually died. Now some of the panels are damaged. You have to be careful who installs and works on your system it's easy to screw it up.

[@NatureCrank]

I don’t know how I even saw your first video but your story touches home and has been a great inspiration. Keep doing great thing.

[@ascensionrecordings]

I was able to build my own system for a fraction of what it would have cost for me to get power lines run thanks to this channel

[@gojeffgordon24]

The other thing they do is offer other services like additional insulation or attic ventilation to go along with the solar panels. They greatly overstate the value of those add-ons to get the loan price higher too. Much better to get an insulation company to do that if you need it. I found out about the hidden financing charges when I got my solar system. My sales person was at least honest on how they were able to give that cheap loan rates. Getting on a 2 story roof wasn't something I was willing to do.

[@lmorton3734]

I really like your channel. Will. I started collecting parts to build own solar unit probably 2 or 3 years back. Got most everything but still working on building the battery bank. Low wages and inflation makes it hard to do but I'm slowly getting there thanks to you and the valuable information and explanations you share.

[@gkeith4120]

Always great stuff, William, however, I still need you to look up the difference between cheap and inexpensive or less expensive versus cheaper.

[@SetchiPaunda]

Always great videos, thanks to you. I know as much as I know. Appreciate the quality of information

[@joparks2509]

My simple set up :400 watts solar panel; DIY solar panel stand with wheels so its easy to move the panels around my yard. One Bluetti 200 Max. Had a transfer switch installed to my house by a licensed electrician. Bought a 10 gauge transfer switch cord and a 10 gauge adapter ( 4 prong to 3 prong) to connect my bluetti to my transfer switch. For around $3000 , I am able to power my gas furnace, lights, and small appliances, off grid. My set-up does not make my house fully off grid, yet, but it gives me comfort knowing that in case of a blackout, or other grid related emergencies, I have a back up system. You can keep building this kind of set up as your budget allows. The key is to have a transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician. Their job will be inspected by the City, so everything is City Code compliant and legal. I measure my ROI in terms of how much I'm able to save on my electric bill using solar power. Thanks, Will, for keeping it real!

[@DesolatorMagic]

#1 best way is watch business bankruptcy and closure auctions and buy their entire setup. Then take notes as you disassemble it.

[@jeffamerican5628]

Built my own 1800watt panel and 30kw battery backup system for under $13k on my own with info from this channel. Very safe, triple redundant, 24v system with easy to expand pv input.

[@OltonHall]

Thanks for reminding me the annual solar salespeople visitor season will be starting for me soon.

[@ChrisEudy-ut4rs]

Hey Will Hurley hospital here in Flint not same as your shirt except in name saved my life!

[@fasnuf]

Did a small DIY system as a backup generator to run my well, septic and other circuits within reason. Glad I did it and still got the government rebate. My only regret is buying bifacial panels before learning proper mounting to avoid shadows on the back side.

[@surfguy777]

Bifacial is still the way to go in my opinion. No cracking or degredation on the back of the panel over time.

[@fasnuf]

@@surfguy777 Thanks, I didn't think or even know about that. This was my first solar so I'm a bit inexperienced.

[@MJ-ge6jz]

Also for awareness, if you purchased or leased a system with monthly payments for your house and later want to sell, the solar contract usually need to be paid off before you can close.

[@robertdknight]

Will, this video is a HUGE public service! Excellent advice and thank you for providing options for people wanting solar. Thanks for doing this

[@matthewinaz]

I did my own 4 years ago 11kw yesterday solar edge. Works perfect 😃

[@darrenorange2982]

Thank you Will for making this video, This is what people need to hear.

[@Shelley-eb6kz]

Thank you for all that you do to educate people! I hope you get paid extremely well by all of these companies because they all suck imo… nice glossy useless brochures and websites. I think that the Renogy Lycan 5000 is the only unit that would work for my off grid rv set up because it’s outdoor rated… I wish there was a split phase configuration but I haven’t heard of anything new from them. I hesitate to buy one for two reasons - I wonder why it’s not been reviewed by you… and the difficulty I’ve had trying to figure out/verify the panels /components to get from their website… the AI bot chat is useless. This is a huge expense for me. I’ve been through 4 gas generators in 8 months. Learning the hard way that there’s alot of expensive unreliable junk on the market and it is a major hassle to deal with the companies when you do have warranty issues. Please do a video on this subject… what is your experience over the years with the various companies when you need service? Thank you

[@quartamile]

Will, you're such a legend, scholar, and treasure. Thank you always!

[@brianfackrell4139]

I wanted solar so i got a job as an installer. I worked for two years and installed about 400 grid tied systems. I bought my own stuff and installed it myself. Its completly paid for. Now im looking for work with someone who does off grid so i can learn how to do that. You are exactly right, keep on being youm

[@my_channel_44]

I think offgrid is easier and usually less permitting. Usually not microinverters; all-in-one systems instead (growatt, eg4, schnieder etc). Check diysolarforum.

[@dimitrysergev2594]

Not all insurance companies will cover your house if you have roof installed solar system, yard install options have less issues on this side.

[@russellleach1942]

This is good. We are both old and disabled

[@benbrown8258]

Will, I am definitely moving in the DIY direction. Thank you for being inspirational.

[@johndowning2231]

We were caught like what you described and it took nearly 10-months to get the company to “cancel the project”! The only good thing is that I have been researching and learning about DIY solar.

[@worldcomicsreview354]

>Buy large all-in-one solar generator like Bluetti AC500 or Ecoflow Delta SüperÜberGööd (or whatever it's called) >Buy cheap glass panels up to it's max volts >Prop panels up against wall,,plug it all together >Run mess of extension cables around the house Inelegant, and the all-in-one costs more than seperate DIY parts, but it WORKS. "Pay for itself"? Next time there's a power cut and you are the only house on the street with the lights still on? Boom, it's paid for itself.

[@knollibe]

I was fortunate, i think. I re roofed. Negotiated solar price by the watt. In 2020 i paid 2.65 per watt. Right at covid beginning. Since california has jacked prices from 20 cents pew kwh to 59 cents at summer peak my system has paid for itself in under 4 years. I chose lg panels with enphase inverters. 5.9 kw. The addition of a mini split in the bedroom has reduced load for sleeping. Thanks will! I have solared up my motorhome and built lifepo4 batterys from battery hookup.

[@z9ski690]

This is the most informative advice I have viewed. Thanks. ❤

[@banditdog1338]

Will you are right on the money my experience was exactly what you described. My first estimate was $80,000 with panels on the roof and the first thing I told the salesman was I did not want panels on my roof. He proceeded to send their plan with the panels on the roof, I did what you suggested I shopped for my components first I purchased the panels then my racking system. Then using your recommendations I started buying my equipment paying as I went. But I am retired and could not physically do the work so I hired a young guy who was recommended by one of my suppliers. My system bought paid for and installed came in at about $25k and it works perfectly yes that's quite a savings so buyers beware do your homework and listen to Will.

[@andrewt9204]

Will, have you ever had someone knock on your door and ask if you want solar, then take them around back and show them all your panels and then laugh them off? Or show them your youtube page and also laugh them off? lmao.

[@everydaycarry1328]

I did !

[@gsp49]

I have shown them my 800 watts of portable camping panels in the back yard and told them it's all I need.

[@toddthecarver]

Phone caller contacted me once. "Have you thought about solar?" "Why yes, " says I." In fact, I'm 100% off-grid on solar right now!" Click. 😝😅

[@91CavGT5]

@@toddthecarver I basically tell the phone Solar scammers the same thing!! “How much is your electric bill per month?” “Zero.” “Excuse me?” “My electric bill is zero. I live off grid.” - click

[@TheAnimeist]

@@toddthecarver I try to keep those a-holes on-line for as long as possible, so they won't be bothering someone else. But I do jack with them too. At times I ask which one of my houses they are talking about (I only have one by the way). My most recent schtick is to tell them that my parents told me not to give any personal information over the phone. Normally this is followed by them asking how old I am. What maroons.

[@dennisklauck7940]

A family of Electricians did mine and blessed my socks off. BUT, I didn't get the inverter I wanted, they gave me micro inverters. Nothing wrong with micros except if you want to go off grid.

[@Trevathecleva82]

All your videos are great Will. Please do one on solar panel racking, best place to buy and mounting mix n match CL panels.

[@Nemo_IRL]

Here in Florida I've seen solar panels on the north side roof. One lady in Tampa had solar installed and her entire roof was covered in shade. 🤷

[@zippythechicken]

i can look out my window and see a house with solar on its north side.. they do have many more on their south side but yeah and we get snow we're up north

[@JT-lq4yd]

I have seen solar panels being shaded by a giant tree. The home owners were taken for a ride.😔

[@punksjutgbd]

Must have been a leased system.

[@johnharvey5412]

That's so the panels don't overheat, right? 😉

[@78PierreC]

I installed part of my system by myself. But that was in agrement with my electrcian. The laws in Sweden makes it almost impossible for DIY installs. We are not allowed to install panels over 100W without consulting a person with the right knowledge, like an electrician. Even on an install on for exemple a caravan without grid connection.

[@tunanocrustgarage]

Im in Pahrump (outside Las Vegas) building an off-grid homestead. Thanks to a lot of videos you have made! Using lead acid 8D Napa Deep Cycle batteries for my battery backup.

[@emilecrotteau7312]

🇨🇦 THANK YOU FOR KEEPING PPL INFORMED,,,AND TRYING TO KEEP THE INDUSTRY HONEST

[@CalicoJackxx]

Thank you Will for another excellent report. Another cost that i am seeing added on is roof replacement. The salesman will explain that you should put on a new roof and by the way we can include that in the loan and even better we have crews that can do the roof replacement for you.

[@kc285b]

This is exactly what happened to me. High pressure, door-to-door sales talked me into a system that was supposed to completely take care of the power needs for my house. They said I did not need you to turn on the battery back up that the technology had not been perfected well enough for them to sell a battery back up they said my power bill from the local power company would be $15 a month and that was mandatory to stay connected to the grid. The entire system cost me $56,000. The first time we had a Weather related power outage. I found out that the power company would cut off our system, and we had no power, although the outage was outside our area. I stopped paying for the system and have been looking for an attorney to consult. Hopefully I will be able to contact you to see what your advice is for the next move.

[@thatretiredguy8907]

I agree 100% with Will from personal experience in Arizona. I am a certifed PM and EE. I was not allowed to pull my permit even though it is allowed in Arizona. I was privately told that if I pulled the permit and did not use an "approved" installer that the inspectors would camp out at my installation and find something wrong till I cried uncle. That is the collusion and corruption between the various cities and the big installers. I designed and bought everything. I interviewed 10 installers and all but one turned my down openly stating that they make their nut from the OEM's that supply the equipment...NOT the labor since labor in Arizona is almost free. Every installer in Arizona I got with had ONE licensed electrician and the rest were just uncertified installers. That one licensed electrician then inspects and signs off on the system. It gets worse, the licensed electrician may be an actual person but the license is issued to the company and is owned by the company and if the individual leaves, the license stays with that company. This may be anodoatal but every company I talked to told me the same story. Arizona is not a DIY solar friendly state.

[@WillProwse]

Yikes thats crazy!!!! Holy cow

[@mrrewog]

I remember when you got your wooden top work bench and how upset you were when you scratched it. I guess you have given up trying to keep it looking new. 😊

[@arleneallen8809]

Extremely nice video. I'm going to point people to it when they come to me for general advice. Non DIYers tend to set themselves up due to their lack of knowledge. I'm of mixed opinion on the installers that push closed ecosystems. In a sense, its the Mac vs. PC controversy.

[@torahislife]

Heaven-sent! Began hunting yesterday for an electrician/ solar installer. Where can I get a system plan drawn up for permitting?

[@MrBillTroop73]

It's because of you that I built your "Hand truck" system. Currently, I have it hooked up to everything in the garage.

[@nelson32]

Would love to see a video for adding solar to a small typical sized shed that would be off grid so there could be a light and electrical outlet available.

[@GarettMcDermid]

Just saw an article from USA today on the pros and cons of diy solar. They didn't recommend it and had lots of ads from solar companies

[@alexnone5720]

Best way I've found to get rid of salespeople whether its door knockers or the ones by the entrance of the box stores is to tell them you're just renting. I have a friend that worked at a few solar installers as an electrician and went through 3 or 4 of them in one year between them either going out of business, declaring bankruptcy to avoid lawsuits or being bought out. He said the jobs were mostly a mix of over priced and under sized systems on customers houses that had no idea what they were really getting. Some (all?) of the companies financing or leasing deals were non-transferable and being installed on older retires houses so when they passed and the house went to the family the system would need to be paid off in full or they would have a lien against the title.

[@OzSteve]

I love your videos. My favourite 'solar' channel. Keep up the great work. Love the honesty in this too.

[@jeremydumoit4487]

I DIY'd my system largely because of your channel. All Victron charge controllers, bus, shunt, 10kVA inverters (dual phase), DIY Seplos kit batteries (75kWH), 41x Solarever 455W panels, Ironridge racking. I hired a buddy from work to help me for a few days. I spent $60k cash, but I imagine it would have been double that from a solar company up here in Maine. In fact, I couldn't find any company to help me because I bought the stuff myself. Electricity is VERY expensive up here: ~ $0.36 per kWH. I did not pull a permit because I'm not injecting extra power back into the grid. I have an ATS that kicks the commercial grid on when the battery runs out.

[@jeremydumoit4487]

Forgot the mention; that $60k includes one backup inverter and charge controller in a Faraday bag for a rainy day jic.

[@MrBruce0777]

My electric bill was $120.00 to $160. Door to Door installer wanted to do an install for me for $48,000 with NO battery backup and when the power goes off so does my solar and my electric company WILL NOT buy back the surplus power......I then watched your video and did 2 separate 3000 watt systems myself with battery back up. ( Acid Battery marine ) . For way under $3000 As a sort of test run ( Fast ) I mounted all of this inside and on the roof of a 40 ft shipping container. It covered four or five rooms and the well pump 24 hours a day.. My first power bill was $100 and the next one was $88.00 I ran this for like 3 or 4 months as a test run. Now I only use and keep the system as standby for a power black out emergency. I plan to in time to install it properly

[@junkerzn7312]

Yes, I've had the "yapping away" experience with door knockers. OMG that is so annoying. They never get to the point. Haven't had any solar door-knockers yet, though. But I have gotten quotes on a fully professionally installed system and they are astronomical compared to me DIYing most of it.

[@MyCabinLife]

I can't believe people still actually answer their door to strangers...

[@junkerzn7312]

@@MyCabinLife Well, in my case more like "gate doorbell pressers". The doorbell is at the locked gate, 20 feet away from the actual house, so they don't make it to the front door. But I do usually walk out and at least start the conversation over the gate. I usually get one or two a year. All the rest are neighbors doing neighborly things. Still, I agree... that era is long over. We no longer live in a time where the wives stay home (which is the reason why door-to-door salesmen became a thing in the first place). -Matt

[@ejakabatcheej4974]

I attempted to get solar panels with Tesla. They initially were great but they continually failed to submit the required paper work to my electricity utility company. 14 months of waiting to obtain an installation date , I had enough and fired them. I am now planning a DIY installation with the help from a licensed electrician.

[@deanlipska549]

I wished I had seen this video 3yr ago. My wife and I are a salesman dream. We bought a system so we would have power when the grid goes down. We didn't ask if if the system came with batteries. So, know when the grid goes down, we are without power. I can't find someone to install just a power wall. (And I can't adored it)

[@NanetteAustin-v4d]

Thank you for all this information.

[@Smellslikegelfling]

The door to door salesmen around my area were touting "industrial grade panels", like it was something you couldn't get from a consumer website. I found out that was complete nonsense and you can purchase the exact same panels the power companies use in their solar arrays.

[@benfaubion]

Totally.. haha, I know EXACTLY what you are talking about! I talked with a Sunrun PPA guy here, they try to sell it like it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. But, I knew there had to be a catch, apparently they can tap into your battery (their battery really) anytime they want. And the cost, OMG.. don't get me started, 40K+ for a 3KW - 4KW system and a battery. Even the local guys, 35K - 40K for a system like this! The presentations, the numbers, the "your savings" charts.. how in the world did they get it in their heads that people would be willing to pay this?! I think people must be paying it, I just don't get it.. Direct with Tesla truly was the best price I've found. And if you are DIY, I wash shocked how little the parts are for certain systems, a few thousand for a decent inverter at the most, a few thousand for a decent battery, less than 2K for 10 panels.. wow. These guys must be pulling in pure labor profit, and selling sham equipment. I'm sure there are some great installers out there, but I'm just kind of amazed at how they're priced the service of installing solar for home owners. There must be some kind of "solar bros make bank on home owners" certificate course somewhere.