Is it better to buy a kit or seperate items...

[galladanb]

As I'm shopping around for a 200w, 2 panel, solar system, I can find several kits that are attractive to me.

I would like the Eclipse panels, 2 each 100w panels, an MPPT controller.
I would like the kit to be able to allow for future expansion perhaps by another 100w,
either by rooftop or as a portable suitcase style.

So, my question is...
Is it better to buy a pre configured kit, or buy the items separately so that I can custom tailor to suit my needs?

 

[Optimistic Paranoid]

My personal opinion is that the people who put a kit together will probably cut some corners to keep the overall cost down.  Too many people, who buy kits because they DON'T know enough about it to choose individual components, will buy based on a lower price.  Personally, I'm sure I can buy better stuff by picking out my own items, mixing and matching.

 

[blars]

Kits have the advantage of being one line item from one vendor. The parts usable to your install will frequently be cheaper if you take the effort to shop around. Also kit parts may be usable but not the best option for you. Expect to need to add a few parts even to a "complete" kit.

 

[galladanb]

Wow! I luv confirmation!!!!

That 's exactly what I was thinking...
Now off to go shopping! Thank You all so much!!!

 

[jimindenver]

Build your own to your needs is always best if one is willing to put the effort into know what to buy and why.