Solar Panel Cost Guide in Carefree, AZ (2023 Update)
- Carefree Solar Installation Cost: $9,344
- 25-Year Savings: $24,524
- Payback Period: 6.9 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Carefree
Here's how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Carefree.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Carefree it's 2.61 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 5.1-kW system would cost about $9,336 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Carefree homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. With typical savings of about $25,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Carefree find installing solar panels can pay off big.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Carefree
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-9,231 |
| 3 years | $-9,006 |
| 5 years | $-8,780 |
| 7 years | $-8,554 |
| 9 years | $-8,328 |
| 11 years | $-8,103 |
| 13 years | $-7,877 |
| 15 years | $-7,651 |
| 17 years | $-7,425 |
| 19 years | $-7,199 |
| 21 years | $-6,974 |
| 23 years | $-6,748 |
| 25 years | $-6,522 |
Top Solar Installers in Carefree
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra time and know-how. That's why the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Local solar installation companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by assisting with any local incentives and by providing warranties and repairs.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Carefree, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
See all of the solar companies in Carefree
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Carefree
While the average cost of a solar system in Carefree is $9,336, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to consider.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Carefree, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,610 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Carefree, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Carefree provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Carefree, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. The company's size sometimes plays the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because they have access to more resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.71 | $11,400 | $28,330 | 7.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.66 | $14,908 | $38,066 | 7.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.61 | $18,270 | $47,948 | 6.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.56 | $21,486 | $57,976 | 6.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.51 | $24,555 | $68,150 | 6.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.45 | $27,478 | $78,471 | 6.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.40 | $30,255 | $88,937 | 6.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.35 | $32,886 | $99,550 | 6.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Carefree, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering such a warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you need to install plays a role in which installer you should choose, since different companies have different panels.
EcoWatch's Carefree, AZ Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Carefree?
The average cost of solar panels in Carefree is about $13,050 for a 5-kW system and $26,100 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Carefree?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your property value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Carefree, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Carefree?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they are completely unusable at that time. What this means is the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.