Can I Run My Entire Home on an Off-Grid Solar System?

The short answer: Yes, you can — but only if it’s designed for your actual needs.

At BC Solar, we don’t use cookie-cutter designs or push the biggest system just to sell more panels. Instead, we assess your energy habits, backup priorities, and real-world use — and build your off-grid solar system around that.

What Makes Off-Grid Work?

Running your home 100% off the grid means no backup from the utility company. Everything — lights, appliances, A/C, even your well pump or sump — must run on solar + batteries.

Here’s what it takes:

• Enough solar panels to meet your daily energy use — even in Ohio winters.

• Properly sized battery bank for overnight use and cloudy-day reserves.

• Reliable inverter system that can handle the surge from heavy appliances.

We often recommend hybrid-capable inverters like Sol-Ark that provide flexibility: they can handle off-grid power, battery charging, and AC loads simultaneously — and can even run off a car battery in emergencies.

Avoid the Pitfalls of Underbuilt Systems

Many solar installers undersize off-grid systems — or design them based on average numbers, not real use. That leads to lights flickering, batteries draining too fast, or critical loads failing when you need them most.

At BC Solar, we design every off-grid system to:

• Handle your peak loads (HVAC, water heaters, freezers).

• Provide multiple days of battery backup, not just overnight.

• Run critical loads even in extended outages.

Our promise? You won’t be left in the dark.

Who’s Off-Grid Solar Right For?

Off-grid systems are best suited for:

• Homes in rural areas without utility access.

• Customers who want full energy independence.

• Preppers or those prioritizing resilience.

• Cabins, homesteads, or weekend properties.

But even if you’re still connected to the grid, we can design a system that acts off-grid when needed.

FAQs

How much battery storage do I need to go off-grid in Ohio?

Most homeowners need at least 2–3 days of battery capacity, especially in winter. We often install lithium battery banks (like EG4 or HomeGrid) sized between 20–40 kWh — but it depends on your usage and desired backup time.

What happens during extended cloudy weather?

We plan for that. Your system will be designed with extra panel capacity and battery reserve. In rare cases, a backup generator may be added for peace of mind — but many of our clients never need one.

Can I upgrade later?

Yes. BC Solar designs systems with modularity in mind. You can add batteries, panels, or even switch to a hybrid grid-tied setup later.

Will I save money by going off-grid?

Going fully off-grid is more about independence and security than payback. If savings are your top priority, a grid-tied or hybrid system might be a better fit. We’ll walk you through both options.

Want to see what off-grid could look like for your property?

📞 Call us at (614) 442-9700
📍 Visit us: 777 Busch Ct, Columbus, OH
🌐 bc.solar

We’re local. We’re honest. And we do it right the first time.