Choosing a good off-grid solar system for your house is kind of challenging. Don’t worry, we list the five best off-grid solar systems for you!
- Best Overall: Renogy 100W Panel Off-Grid Solar Kit
- Best for Small Applications: WindyNation 400W Solar Kit
- Best for Easy Installation: Eco-Worthy 1,200W Solar Power Kit
- High-quality: ExpertPower LiFePO4 5KWH 12V Solar Power Kit
- Best for Small Off-grid Homes: ECI Power 1.3kWh 12V Solar Power System Kit
Because they want to live off the grid, many consumers are interested in home solar panels. Residential solar systems can improve your energy independence while also reducing your energy costs and carbon footprint. An off-grid solar system has some advantages, such as protecting you from power outages and significantly reducing (if not eliminating) your electricity bill.
It’s not difficult to find the ideal off-grid solar kit. Here are our top picks for off-grid solar power systems for 2023.
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Best Off-grid Solar Systems
Best Overall: Renogy 100W Panel Off-Grid Solar Kit
Pros
- High-quality, durable components
- Includes Bluetooth module for wireless solar monitoring
- Trusted and reliable brand name
- Great value for the money
- Relatively affordable
- Can be expanded to provide more power
Cons
- Doesn’t include batteries or an inverter
- Not ideal for larger applications
- Poor customer service
The Renogy off-grid solar kit is our favorite overall, and it’s the one we feel most comfortable recommending. It includes four 100-watt solar panels for a total output of 400 watts. This means that while it can be expanded with more panels for greater power, it is best for smaller applications.
A charge controller is also included in the kit to make connecting devices and appliances simple. A Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller is more effective than the charge controller’s Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) controller. However, it’s an excellent choice for quickly connecting gadgets to your panels.
A Bluetooth module that allows wireless connection to the system and performance testing can be added to the Renogy kit. The majority of other kits don’t include this fantastic option, but it is available. It’s handy for setting up your batteries and keeping an eye on production and storage to ensure you don’t experience a blackout.
Unfortunately, if you want to completely go off-grid with dependable power, you’ll need to buy batteries and an inverter separately because this system doesn’t come with either of them. While you’re picking up your equipment, you can easily upgrade your system by adding compatible 100 amp-hour deep-cycle batteries from Renogy, which are available for around $300 each.
Most importantly, Renogy is a reputable brand when it comes to DIY solar equipment. You not only get strong materials and components, but also the manufacturer’s 5-year warranty on both the workmanship and the materials.
Furthermore waterproof, Renogy’s equipment. You can install this system with confidence in almost any location because the components have waterproof ratings of IP65 and IP67. There should be no problem getting your hands on the equipment since many Renogy products are offered on websites like Amazon and Home Depot.
Best for Small Applications: WindyNation 400W Solar Kit
Pros
- Excellent warranty coverage for panels and efficiency
- Includes batteries and a controller
- High-quality materials will last for years
- Available for less money without an inverter
- Relatively straightforward to set up
Cons
- More expensive than competitors
- Warranty isn’t the best for equipment besides solar panels
Our top choice for a complete solar setup for smaller solar projects is the 400W solar kit from WindyNation. Although it costs roughly twice as much as the Renogy system, it comes with more equipment that enables you to completely live off the grid.
The kit comes with four 100W panels, a charge controller, an inverter, four 100 amp-hour batteries, wiring to hook up your system, and brackets for easy solar installation.
If you want to convert a small cabin, RV, or another remote home to off-grid renewable energy, this is the perfect starter kit for you. If you purchase the entire kit, you will have everything you need to generate and store electricity through the night and through overcast days.
If you don’t need to power a home or have access to AC current, you can also purchase a kit without an inverter for about $600 less. To make use of the energy you gather, it still includes a PWM charge controller.
Another reputable solar manufacturer, WindyNation, stands behind this system with a 25-year power production warranty, and a 1-year warranty for all other parts, including the batteries. Its products are also available on Amazon and from home improvement stores like Home Depot, so they’re very accessible.
Best for Easy Installation: Eco-Worthy 1,200W Solar Power Kit
Pros
- Simple and well-explained installation instructions
- Video installation guides are available
- The complete kit includes batteries and an inverter/charger
- Great for small and medium-sized solar projects
- Relatively affordable on a price-per-watt basis
- Expandable with compatible accessories from the same company
Cons
- Two 10 amp-hour batteries may not be sufficient for some applications
- Expensive overall, despite being a good deal
- The warranty coverage is severely lacking
We recommend the Eco-Worthy 1,200W kit if you’re looking for a kit that is DIY-friendly, even for beginners, but is a little intimidated by the process of connecting all of your solar system components yourself.
This includes six 200W PV panels to produce a massive 1,200 watts of power, making it suitable for most small off-grid houses, sheds, detached garages, or other structures that aren’t connected to the grid.
To provide power even when the sun isn’t shining on your panels, it also includes a pure sine wave inverter (PSW inverter) and two 100 amp-hour batteries. The Bluetooth module you receive at the end is perfect for monitoring your energy storage and production.
Our favorite feature of this kit is how easy it is to follow the instructions, and both the company and outside companies have a number of instructional videos you can watch for advice on how to complete an installation without difficulty or stress.
Even the printed instructions have simple-to-follow wiring diagrams and installation instructions, and the business keeps customer service lines open around the clock in case you have any problems or questions.
If you’re looking for the maximum amount of energy for your solar project, you can also invest in the solar tracking kit from Eco-Worthy. Your panels will tilt and pivot thanks to this mounting system, ensuring the best angle for energy collection. The tracker kit can assist in making this system suitable for larger projects as well, with panels boasting a 21% efficiency rating.
High-quality: ExpertPower LiFePO4 5KWH 12V Solar Power Kit
Pros
- Impressive 5kWh, 200Ah capacity
- Advanced, high-capacity lithium batteries
- High-quality solar system components
- 40A MPPT charge controller is highly efficient
- Bluetooth technology for hassle-free management
- Effortless installation with mounting brackets
Cons
- The solar panel cables are somewhat short
Off-grid families who use the ExpertPower LiFePO4 can take advantage of modern technologies anywhere thanks to its dependability. The kit enables comfortable and convenient living even in remote locations by significantly reducing energy costs.
I am impressed with this solar power kit’s completeness and thoughtful design. Some manufacturers only take into account the quality of the solar panels and charge controllers, neglecting the other components.
For instance, the 200Ah lithium-ion power cells in this off-grid solar battery system have cutting-edge battery management technology. This feature is noteworthy, considering the product from ECI Power only provides a single unit of 100Ah LiFePO4 battery.
Additionally, the kit’s six 100-watt solar panels are nothing to laugh at. Families living off the grid can get 5 kWh per day in ideal weather. Due to the monocrystalline panels, these photovoltaic cells should continue to collect photons and convert them into DC electricity even in cloudy conditions.
Best for Small Off-grid Homes: ECI Power 1.3kWh 12V Solar Power System Kit
Pros
- Dependable-quality system elements: monocrystalline panels
- MPPT charge controller maxes at 30 amps
- Smart, safe lithium battery technology against over-voltage, over-discharge, etc
- Complete kit for quick and effortless setups
- Recommended for small off-grid homes, RVs, and boats
Cons
- May not meet most families’ electrical requirements (1,300-kilowatt-hour)
ECI Power is a great option for those who only have modest electrical needs. This product provides pure and clean energy to power nearly all of the off-grid families’ needs, similar to many other off-grid solar power systems for homes.
This solar system kit, like the ExpertPower model, includes everything off-grid families need to take advantage of modern conveniences. The MPPT charge controller’s maximum output is 30 amps, while the four monocrystalline panels produce 100 watts each. For campers, RVs, travel trailers, and marine craft, it is the ideal solution.
High-performance off-grid solar panels are enhanced by a Bluetooth module. It’s easy to control the input, output, and operational settings for this solar system. I wouldn’t miss any important information about the solar system whether I was relaxing on my boat or seeking shelter from the sun in my off-grid home.
This system provides assurance despite having only one 100Ah lithium-iron battery. Although the battery does not have a built-in BMS for the supply of loads, the charge controller manages the battery’s secure operation. The 30A MPPT protects the power cell from low-voltage, over-voltage, over-temperature, and over-discharge.
How to Choose the Best Off-Grid Solar System?
You should take into account a few factors before buying an off-grid solar system kit.
- System size. Before selecting an off-grid system, it is best to have an idea of how much electricity you’ll require. Look for systems that have a power output similar to the amount of electricity you use every month or allow you to expand the system if you need more solar panels to meet your needs.
- Battery options. Because they are not connected to the electrical grid, off-grid solar systems rely heavily on battery storage. Storing excess electricity in a solar battery will provide you with electricity when your panels aren’t generating power, like at night or when it’s raining. Solar batteries are included in some off-grid kits, but not in others.
- Warranties. The majority of solar industry manufacturers back their products with warranties. Products with flaws are covered by material warranties. Additionally, the efficiency of solar panels is typically guaranteed by performance warranties.
- Customizable solar kits. Some off-grid solar kits are more customizable than others. You can add various solar battery types, inverters, and mounting tools using a number of the options on this list. If you decide to increase the size of your off-grid solar system in the future, some manufacturers also offer expansion kits.
- Your location. If an off-grid solar system is the best option for you, a lot will depend on where you live. Disconnecting from the power grid is forbidden in some states. Only using solar energy to generate your electricity may not be the best choice if you live in a place with little sunlight; you should instead think about installing a hybrid solar system.
Pros and Cons of Off-grid Solar Systems
Off-grid solar has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The most crucial off-grid solar advantages and disadvantages are listed below.
Pros
- Eliminate electricity bills
- Establish complete energy independence
- Protection from power outages
- Provide electricity in remote locations
Cons
- Can be more expensive
- More reliant on battery storage
- Can’t participate in net metering programs
- Off-grid systems aren’t permitted in all states or counties
Are Off-Grid Solar Panel Systems Worth It?
Off-grid PV systems are an excellent choice for some people, but it depends on your unique circumstances and requirements. See How to Build An Off-grid Solar System
An off-grid array might be the best option if you have a house in a remote area where connecting it to the grid is not practical or cost-effective. It can provide you with clean energy at all times, provided you size your system appropriately and install batteries.
Even though it might be possible to connect to the grid for small applications, doing so isn’t always worth it. In these cases, an off-grid system can be a great alternative. A good example would be an outbuilding, like a shed or detached garage, where you don’t need electricity, but it’s nice to have.
A grid-connected solar array may be a better choice if your house is close enough to the grid to connect to it or if you must always have power. This enables you to use renewable energy while also having access to utility company electricity in case solar production declines for an extended period of time.
In the end, you’ll have to determine for yourself whether an off-grid PV system is the best option for you. For assistance with your choice, we advise getting in touch with one of our carefully selected partners who can offer you a quote for your particular setup.
Conclusion: Best Off-grid Solar Systems
In this blog, we rank the top five off-grid solar systems so you can pick the one you like best.
- Best Overall: Renogy 100W Panel Off-Grid Solar Kit
- Best for Small Applications: WindyNation 400W Solar Kit
- Best for Easy Installation: Eco-Worthy 1,200W Solar Power Kit
- High-quality: ExpertPower LiFePO4 5KWH 12V Solar Power Kit
- Best for Small Off-grid Homes: ECI Power 1.3kWh 12V Solar Power System Kit
We sincerely hope that after reading this buying guide and being aware of the answers to the most frequently asked questions about these products, you will be able to identify the best one for your unique needs. The best off-grid solar system is available right now!
FAQs
How Much Solar Power Do I Need to Go Off the Grid?
Firstly, you’ll need about 20 solar panels, but those can easily go on the roof. You’ll also need room inside to store the batteries. This might be up to 30 batteries, depending on how big your installation is.
Can You Live Completely Off-grid With Solar Panels?
A home battery can instantly power your home in the event of a power outage. When paired with solar panels, you can survive “off-grid” until the utility grid is fixed, with the solar panels providing power and charging your battery during the day, and your battery providing power at night.
How Many Batteries Do I Need to Go Off-grid?
Typically, one solar battery is all that is required to maintain power during grid outages. If you want to go off-grid completely, you’ll need far more storage capacity, more along the lines of 8-12 batteries.
