Are Complete Off-Grid Solar Kits Worth It?

If you're considering solar for your home in Columbus, Ohio, you've probably seen ads for "complete off-grid solar kits." They promise energy independence in a box. But are they worth it?

Let’s break it down honestly.

What Is a Complete Off-Grid Solar Kit?

A complete off-grid solar kit typically includes:

• Solar panels

• Charge controller

• Battery bank

• Inverter

• Wiring and mounting hardware

It’s designed to let your home operate completely independent of the electric grid.

Are They Truly “Complete”?

Not always. Many kits on the market claim to be “complete,” but lack critical components like:

• Properly sized batteries for Ohio winters

• Backup generator compatibility

• UL-listed components that meet local code

You might still need an electrician to bring the system up to code or adapt it to your actual energy needs. That’s why BC Solar rarely recommends generic kits.

Are They Worth It in Columbus, Ohio?

It depends on your goal.

If you’re building a remote cabin with no utility access, a custom off-grid system might make sense.

But for most Ohio homeowners, a grid-tied system with battery backup is more reliable and cost-effective:

• You get energy savings plus security during outages.

• You can take advantage of net metering and solar tax credits.

• You don’t need to oversize your system for rare worst-case scenarios

Brian Zaayer, BC Solar’s owner, puts it this way:

“We can design a system that keeps your fridge, lights, and furnace fan running even if the grid goes down. And you won’t need to sacrifice reliability or overspend on batteries.”

Pros of Off-Grid Kits

• Energy independence

• No electric bills

• Potential for remote use (cabins, barns, etc.)

Cons of Off-Grid Kits

• Often undersized or poorly matched to actual needs

• Limited support and customization

• Batteries wear out and need replacement.

• No access to the utility grid backup

• Installation can be complex.

What BC Solar Recommends

We believe in custom systems, not one-size-fits-all kits.

We design and install solar + battery solutions that:

• Fit your lifestyle and energy use.

• Work with or without the grid.

• Use top-tier equipment with local support.

• Meet all Ohio codes and utility requirements.

FAQs

Can I run my whole home off-grid in Ohio?
Yes, but you’ll need a larger system and lots of storage. We usually recommend backup batteries instead of full off-grid setups for most homes.

What happens when it’s cloudy for days?
That’s why most off-grid systems include a backup generator. Battery-only setups without generator support can struggle.

Do off-grid kits qualify for Ohio solar tax credits?
Yes, if the components are eligible and installed correctly. But you need documentation. We help with that.

Thinking about energy independence the right way? We’ll help you design a system that’s realistic, reliable, and right for you.

Call BC Solar today at (614) 442-9700 or visit bc. Solar to learn more.