Hey everyone! I'm new to solar energy and I live in Arizona, where it's sunny almost all year round. I've seen posts on Facebook about complete solar kits with 4 panels (400w each) for about $3000. My main goal is to run my AC, pool pump, and electric stove on solar during peak hours, which is about 4 hours a day. Everything else in the house can operate as usual, but the AC is critical. Is it feasible to do this with the setup I'm considering? Would I need additional panels? And what should I realistically expect in terms of costs? Also, can I have my AC switch between being grid-powered during off-peak times and solar during on-peak hours?
3 Answers
Definitely proceed with caution if you’re looking to power high-demand appliances like electric stoves! They can take a heavy toll on solar setups. Your best bet is starting small, powering your essential appliances first, and learning as you go. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals who can help design a solar system tailored for you. Good luck with your solar journey!
To tackle your AC and appliances, you’ll likely need a more robust solar setup. A good estimate for solar installation costs is around $2 to $4 per watt. If you can, consider reducing your pool pump usage during peak hours—it’s a simple fix. Also, switching to energy-efficient mini-split AC units can significantly lower your energy consumption. Many people in AZ are upgrading to these with a higher SEER rating, meaning they use less energy. You might want to budget around $4000+ for all the necessary gear, especially if you plan to run your stove, which is quite energy-hungry. Honestly, a grid-tied solar system could work best for you, but keep your peak usage times in mind since solar output drops later in the evening.
If you’re planning a solar installation, be ready for costs! It generally runs about $2.75-$3 per watt, plus extras if you need batteries. So, for a medium 10kw solar array, expect $30k if it's roof-mounted. For the electric stove, be careful about sizing your system—you don’t want to design it just for that high power draw since it's rarely used for all burners at once. Typically, folks use around 24-panel setups (about 4kw) which are more economical. Just check the costs of each component if you're looking to DIY or get a quote from a pro.