Solar Panel Cost Guide in San Dimas, CA (2023 Update)
- San Dimas Solar Installation Cost: $5,444
- 25-Year Savings: $13,325
- Payback Period: 7.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in San Dimas
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in San Dimas.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in San Dimas typically cost about 2.73. The average solar panel system size in San Dimas is around 2.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,446 for a solar installation, or $7,788 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy consumption, the type of equipment you choose, your solar contractor and more. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in San Dimas see about $25,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
To get a free estimate from a top solar installation company in San Dimas, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in San Dimas
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,260 |
| 3 years | $-1,890 |
| 5 years | $479 |
| 7 years | $2,849 |
| 9 years | $5,218 |
| 11 years | $7,588 |
| 13 years | $9,957 |
| 15 years | $12,327 |
| 17 years | $14,696 |
| 19 years | $17,066 |
| 21 years | $19,435 |
| 23 years | $21,805 |
| 25 years | $24,174 |
Top Solar Installers in San Dimas
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it requires extra labor and know-how. For that reason, the majority of homeowners choose a solar panel installer. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and part replacements.
Working with a vetted solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in San Dimas
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in San Dimas
For many San Dimas homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in San Dimas, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in San Dimas, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home's energy usage, which you can gauge by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in San Dimas to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to higher prices over time because of interest. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar panel system can play a part in determining how much you pay. San Dimas' solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in San Dimas know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.84 | $11,925 | $27,602 | 7.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $37,109 | 7.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $46,769 | 7.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $56,581 | 7.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $66,546 | 7.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $76,664 | 6.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $86,935 | 6.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $97,359 | 6.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose significantly affects your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: When reading over your solar installer's contract, ask for clarification about any terms you're not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should make sure they know how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's San Dimas, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in San Dimas?
The average cost of solar panels in San Dimas is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in San Dimas, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes 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 often do you have to replace solar panels?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can replace them once you've had 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.