| Skip this | Why | Get this instead |
|---|---|---|
| Lead-acid or AGM batteries for a new system | You can use only about half, they wear out in a few years, and they're heavy | LiFePO4 batteries |
| A "solar generator" to run your whole house | Expensive per kWh, hard to expand, can't run a well pump | A home system, or a power station just for outages |
| Unbranded flexible panels | Many delaminate within a few seasons | Name-brand rigid panels; flexible only for curved van roofs |
| PWM controllers on anything but tiny systems | They waste much of your panel power | MPPT |
| Grid-tie-only inverters or microinverters (if you want outage power) | They shut off when the grid does | An off-grid or hybrid inverter |
| Mismatched "kits" | Parts that don't talk to each other or fit your needs | A matched setup from a guide |
| Undersized wire, no fuses | The #1 safety risk in DIY systems | Wire sized for the current, plus proper fuses and breakers |
| Mixing old and new batteries | The old ones drag the new ones down | Add matching batteries on the same rack |
| Electric tank water heater off-grid | It can nearly double the system | Propane, or a heat-pump water heater |
Why these are everywhere
They're cheap to make, cheap-looking on a product page, and easy to sell. The difference shows up a year or two later. The guides only recommend gear that people run for years.
Questions people ask
Are solar generators worth it?
For outages, camping and renters, a good LiFePO4 power station is great. For running a whole home they cost far more per kWh than a real system and can't grow with you.
Is lead-acid ever the right choice?
Rarely for a new system. You can only use about half its capacity, it wears out much sooner, and it needs more care.
Get the exact setup
A few taps and you'll know exactly what to buy for your situation.