Solar Panel Cost Guide in Wheaton, IL (2023 Update)
- Wheaton Solar Installation Cost: $12,486
- 25-Year Savings: $11,083
- Payback Period: 13.2 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Wheaton
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Wheaton.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Wheaton, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.5-kW system would cost about $12,479 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Wheaton homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For most homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Wheaton see about $14,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a top solar company in Wheaton, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Wheaton
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,329 |
| 3 years | $-9,017 |
| 5 years | $-6,705 |
| 7 years | $-4,392 |
| 9 years | $-2,080 |
| 11 years | $232 |
| 13 years | $2,545 |
| 15 years | $4,857 |
| 17 years | $7,169 |
| 19 years | $9,482 |
| 21 years | $11,794 |
| 23 years | $14,107 |
| 25 years | $16,419 |
Top Solar Installers in Wheaton
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel installer since trying to install solar panels yourself can be a lot of work. The expertise that solar installers provide can be valuable as well, particularly if you don't quite know what kind of solar equipment would be right for your home.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Wheaton
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Wheaton
For many Wheaton homeowners, the decision to install solar panels depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Wheaton, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few 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 Wheaton, one of the most crucial factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. The type of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will considerably affect costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Further, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to consider the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Wheaton provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it's crucial to consider that as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you choose will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $9,719 | 13.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $13,264 | 13.5 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $16,962 | 13.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $20,813 | 13.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $24,817 | 12.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $28,974 | 12.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $33,284 | 12.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $37,747 | 11.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Wheaton, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which company you should go with, since different companies provide different panels.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for panel repairs and maintenance 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.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Wheaton, IL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Wheaton?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Wheaton have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either be compensated for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How long do solar panels last in Wheaton?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
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.