How it works: Solar panels are photovoltaic (PV) cells. In a nutshell, these special batteries harness sunlight, transform it into energy, then send that energy to an inverter, which converts it into electricity to power the home.

Who to hire: Installing solar panels isn’t as simple as slapping cells on a rooftop. You’ll need to install additional wiring, and panel placement is key to building an efficient system. So this is one that’s best left for the pros.

Look for a solar pro who:

  • Offers a strong warranty. Be sure the inverter is covered for at least 10 years and the panels are covered for 20 to 25 years.
  • Uses panels made by a manufacturer based in the U.S. That way your warranty will still protect you if the manufacturer goes belly up. See more here.