Installing solar panels on your home is one of the best ways to lower electric bills while also helping the environment. Two reputable solar companies to consider are Windmar and Power Solar. But how do you decide between them for your solar panel system? Here’s an in-depth look at Windmar and Power Solar, including their pros, cons, costs, products, and key differences to help you make an informed decision.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Factor | WindMar | Power Solar |
| Years in Business | 14 years since 2008 | 10 years since 2013 |
| Installations to Date | 25,000+ | 10,000+ |
| Purchase Cost | $2.99 per watt | $3.25 per watt |
| Lease Cost | $0 down, $79/month | $0 down, $89/month |
| Products | Tier 1 panels from LG, Panasonic, SunPower | Panels from Mission Solar, LG, Panasonic, SunPower |
| Equipment Warranty | 25 years | 10 years (20 for fee) |
| Installer Certification | Network of qualified installers | NABCEP-certified installers |
| BBB Rating | A+ | A+ |
| Reviews | Very positive | Mixed |
Overview of WindMar
Windmar is a national solar company that has installed over 25,000 solar energy systems across the U.S. since 2008. They offer both solar panel purchase and lease options.
Some key things to know about Windmar:
- Products – They sell and install premium Tier 1 solar panels and related equipment like inverters. Both roof-mount and ground-mount systems available.
- Cost – System pricing is around $2.99 per watt for purchase. Leasing starts at $0 down and $79 per month in a 20-year contract.
- Installation – Windmar handles the complete install process including permits. National network of installers.
- Warranty – Lifetime workmanship warranty on install. 25-year warranty offered on solar equipment.
- Reviews – Windmar maintains an A+ Better Business Bureau rating with mostly positive customer reviews.
- Financing – Loans available for solar panel purchase through partner GreenSky which offers competitive rates.
Overview of Power Solar
Founded in 2013, Power Solar has installed over 10,000 solar systems for residential and commercial customers. They operate in several states providing purchase and lease options.
Key things to know about Power Solar:
- Products – High-efficiency solar panels from brands like LG, Panasonic and Mission Solar. Roof and ground mount systems offered.
- Cost – Pricing averages $3.25 per watt for purchase. Leases start at $0 down and $89 per month for 20 years.
- Installation – Handled by Power Solar’s team of NABCEP-certified installers. Limited lifetime workmanship warranty.
- Warranty – 10-year manufacturer’s warranty on equipment that can be extended to 20 years for a fee.
- Reviews – Power Solar has an A+ Better Business Bureau rating but mixed customer reviews overall.
- Financing – Financing plans available including loans and $0 down lease options through SunPower Financial.
Key Differences Between WindMar And Power Solar
Now that we have an overview of Windmar and Power Solar, let’s do a detailed comparison on factors like cost, products, warranties, and more.
- Cost and Pricing
One of the most important factors for homeowners is the cost and pricing of the solar panel system.
For a Windmar solar purchase, the average cost runs about $2.99 per watt. So a 5kW system may cost around $14,950 before incentives. For their 20-year lease, rates start at $0 down and $79 per month.
Power Solar tends to be slightly more expensive for purchase with costs around $3.25 per watt. So that same 5kW system may be $16,250 before incentives. Their lease option also starts at $0 down but runs $89 per month for 20 years.
Keep in mind you can receive the federal solar tax credit and local incentives that make the out-of-pocket costs lower. But all factors considered, Windmar tends to have more affordable pricing on both purchase and lease options.
- Products and Equipment
When it comes to the solar equipment, both Windmar and Power Solar use high-quality panels and components.
Windmar installs solar panels from top brands like LG, Panasonic, and SunPower. They use smart monitoring systems and premium inverters for maximum energy production. Roof or ground mounting options available.
Power Solar also installs efficient solar panels from reputable manufacturers like Mission Solar, LG, Panasonic, and SunPower. Their systems come with monitoring hardware and quality inverter equipment. Roof and ground mounts offered.
Both companies have access to Tier 1 solar products that will serve homes well. There is no clear winner when it comes to the equipment and products used.
- Installation Process
A solar system is only as good as its installation. This is another area where the two companies are pretty even.
Windmar has installed over 25,000 systems across the nation since 2008 so they have extensive experience. They use a network of qualified installers who go through stringent certification. You can expect a professional installation.
Power Solar uses NABCEP-certified installers to handle all aspects of the solar panel system setup including permits. With over 10,000 installs completed, their team is also very experienced. Expect high-quality craftsmanship.
Overall, both companies have seasoned install teams that will get your solar panels up and running correctly. The process will be in capable hands whether you choose Windmar or Power Solar.
- Warranties and Protection
The warranty coverage provides peace of mind on your investment in solar panels. Here’s an overview of what each company offers:
Windmar provides a lifetime workmanship warranty on installation services. So any defects in craftsmanship are covered forever. They also provide a 25-year warranty on the solar equipment like panels and inverters.
Power Solar also offers a lifetime workmanship warranty on the installation. Their solar equipment warranty is 10 years but can be extended to 20 years for an additional cost.
Windmar has the edge when it comes to included warranties by providing 25 years of coverage on equipment vs only 10 with Power Solar. Having a longer equipment warranty included is a notable benefit.
Also Watch This Review Video:
- Monitoring and Maintenance
Being able to monitor your solar panel production and maintain your system are essential for maximum energy bill savings.
Windmar equips all systems with monitoring hardware to track solar output. This allows customers to monitor production on computers or mobile devices. They also provide free virtual maintenance checks annually.
Power Solar also includes monitoring abilities with their systems so you can analyze performance online or on your phone. They offer paid maintenance plans to keep your solar panels performing optimally.
For most homeowners, the included monitoring is sufficient for both companies. The free maintenance check from Windmar is a nice perk but standard otherwise.
- Customer Service and Reviews
Strong customer services and positive reviews give you confidence in choosing a solar company.
Windmar maintains an excellent A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Online reviews are overwhelmingly positive regarding their customer service and installs. Complaints are low which is a good sign.
Power Solar also has an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. However, their wider review profile is more mixed compared to Windmar. Some complaints about pushy sales and poor communication.
Windmar appears to have a better reputation and satisfied customer base judging by online reviews and complaints. Power Solar still delivers but Windmar edges them out in service quality.
Also Read: Sunrun Vs. SunPower Vs. Tesla Solar: Best Residential Solar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For residential energy production, solar is generally better and more practical than wind power. Solar panels can be installed on home rooftops unobtrusively. But residential wind turbines require large towers and ample wind which isn’t feasible in most neighborhoods. Solar also maintains grid independence for homes. With federal and local incentives factored in, solar becomes the more accessible and sensible renewable energy choice for homeowners.
Some of the best national solar companies based on reputation, quality, and cost include SunPower, Tesla, Sunrun, and Windmar. These established companies use high-grade solar equipment and experienced installers. Windmar stands out for its strong 25-year equipment warranty and very competitive pricing. But several reputable firms exist, so get multiple quotes before deciding on the best solar company for your particular home.
Currently, the fastest growing major solar company in the U.S. is Tesla. After acquiring SolarCity in 2016, Tesla has seen tremendous growth in solar installations over the last several years. The Tesla brand and innovative solar roof tiles are propelling rapid adoption. Other top companies like Sunrun and SunPower have also seen steady growth. The entire residential solar industry is expanding quickly as costs come down and incentives remain strong in many states.
Windmar Solar is one of the nation’s leading residential solar panel providers. Founded in 2008, they have installed over 25,000 solar systems for homeowners across the country. Windmar offers affordable pricing on Tier 1 solar panels from brands like LG, Panasonic, and SunPower. They handle the complete install process including permits and provide a lifetime workmanship warranty plus a 25-year equipment warranty. Windmar maintains an excellent reputation and high customer satisfaction ratings as an affordable solar option.
Final Thought
When deciding between Windmar and Power Solar for home solar panels, keep these factors in mind:
- Windmar has more affordable pricing for purchase and lease options
- Both companies use premium solar products from reputable brands
- Experienced installation teams ensure professional quality
- Windmar provides a longer 25-year equipment warranty
- Monitoring abilities are similar on both platforms
- Reviews and reputation favor Windmar over Power
Overall, Windmar tends to beat Power Solar when it comes to costs, warranties, and customer satisfaction. But Power Solar remains a solid solar provider choice with quality installs nationwide. For most homeowners, Windmar is the preferable option given the competitive pricing and stellar reputation. Get quotes from both, but the differences make Windmar the frontrunner for residential solar panels.