Modern home power system designs and components are standardized. Common problems have been solved by the experience of thousands of solar, wind, or hydro powered home owners. All the equipment is readily available, from a basic starter setup for lights and TV in a small cabin, to a full AC powered home and business.

Still, independent {A-E} electrical power is not quite a "turnkey" appliance like a central heating system with sales and service people knocking at your door. Many independent homes are in remote places, where the owner is the prime decision maker, meter reader and service person. A practical solar electric system requires some owner participation in planning, management, and maintenance. The owner-builder who understands batteries and equipment will have a better working system, save money, and become more self-reliant.

The main responsibility is managing your batteries, that is, making sure the batteries get fully recharged each week, and rarely discharged below 50 or 60%. This is done by watching the meters and if needed, running the generator to supplement shortfalls due to extended no-sun weather. About once every month or two, one battery cell per batteries should be checked with a hydrometer (less than $10 at auto parts stores), a glass tube and rubber bulb device with a float that reads the condition of battery fluid. Several times a year you check every cell, and add distilled water to the battery cells to maintain the correct fluid level. An extra charge process called equalizing is sometimes required to restore weak battery cells to normal. Batteries have a limited life, and need to be replaced every 5 to 15 years (depending on type and price) no matter how you care for them.

Solar modules last well over 25 years with little maintenance. Warranties are 20 or 25 years on many modules.