Solar Educational Videos

Big Dog Solar's online quote tool gives homeowners an early look at solar panels, battery options, pricing, and potential savings without a long back-and-forth. This video explains how an address-based estimate can help you decide whether a full site-specific proposal is worth exploring.

Big Dog Solar brings long-running energy and solar experience to homeowners and organizations across the Mountain West. In this quick conversation, Mitch describes the company's history and regional work in Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Colorado.

A Montana homeowner shares her early experience with a new solar system installed alongside a metal roof. She highlights the clean appearance, production monitoring, and Big Dog Solar's coordination with the roofer, electricians, inspector, and other project partners.

Backup power is ultimately about the people and essential equipment inside a home—not the building itself. This video explains why medical devices, refrigeration, heat, lighting, communications, and food storage should guide the choice between battery and generator backup.

Industrial and technology growth across the Treasure Valley is increasing the amount of electricity the regional grid must deliver. This video explains how Boise-area homeowners can use solar and battery storage to gain more control over bills and essential power during outages.

Managed whole-home backup uses load controls to help a properly sized standby generator serve more household needs without overloading. This video highlights automatic transfer, app monitoring, quiet operation, warranty coverage, and the importance of comparing generator and battery options.

The company you choose may matter more than a small difference in panel efficiency or upfront price. Mitch explains how installer stability, service capability, and clear warranty responsibilities protect a long-term solar investment.

A well-managed solar project should feel clear from the first estimate through design, permitting, installation, and support. This video explains Big Dog Solar's emphasis on an in-house process, property-specific design, and straightforward communication.

Solar panels are designed for decades of service, so the company behind the installation matters long after the crew leaves. This video explains why installer history, local support, and a workable service process should be part of every solar decision.

Homeowners no longer need to wait days for an initial look at solar and battery options. This video introduces Big Dog Solar's online quote experience, which uses an address to show an early visual estimate without beginning with a high-pressure sales call.

Nuclear, wind, and solar all contribute electricity, but they operate at very different scales. Mitch explains why rooftop solar stands out as an energy source an individual homeowner can install and control directly.

Home batteries and standby generators can both provide backup power, but they solve the problem in different ways. This video compares quiet, efficient battery storage with fuel-powered generation for homeowners who need longer emergency runtime.

Grid-tied solar customers may receive utility credits when their system exports more electricity than the home is using at that moment. This video explains the basic idea and why every homeowner should learn how their utility displays imported power, exported power, and the net difference.

The familiar homeowner tax credit changed, but this video explains a Big Dog Solar program intended to deliver comparable upfront value through a business-side structure. Mitch outlines the lease-and-buyout concept and why customers must verify current terms and availability.

A kilowatt-hour may be the same unit all day, but its price can change as utility demand rises and falls. In this lighthearted conversation, Mitch explains how solar and battery storage can reduce dependence on expensive peak-rate electricity.

The video explains a program that can provide eligible homeowners with upfront project savings even after the individual residential credit changed. Rather than waiting for tax filing, the value is reflected through a different ownership and incentive structure that must be reviewed carefully.

With time-variable electricity pricing, when a household uses power can matter almost as much as how much it uses. This video explains how solar and smart battery storage can supply stored energy during expensive peak periods.

The homeowner solar tax landscape changed after 2025, but Big Dog Solar describes a separate program designed to pass qualified commercial-side value to eligible customers as an upfront discount. This video explains the basic structure and why homeowners should review current written terms instead of assuming it works like a personal tax credit.

Time-of-use pricing means the same amount of electricity can cost different amounts at different hours. This video shows how a battery can store lower-cost or solar-produced energy and use it later when peak rates apply.

A simple thermostat schedule can help a solar-powered home use more of its own daytime production. This video explains how pre-cooling or preheating during sunny hours may reduce heating or cooling demand later when grid electricity can cost more.

Going solar involves design, permits, utility coordination, installation, inspection, and more. This quick video delivers the simple version: call Big Dog Solar, and the team will help manage the rest of the process.

Large data centers add substantial new demand to the same regional grids that serve homes and businesses. Mitch explains why that growth can influence future utility costs and how homeowners can begin with solar now while planning for batteries later.

Some utility plans charge a higher price after a household moves into larger blocks of electricity use. This video breaks down tiered rates and explains how producing solar energy at home may reduce the amount purchased in more expensive tiers.

Energy independence starts with producing more electricity at home and deciding how that energy is stored and used. Mitch explains how an owned solar-plus-battery system can reduce reliance on the utility while giving a homeowner greater control.

Electricity bills can rise even when a household's usage barely changes. This video explains how growing grid demand and infrastructure investment can contribute to higher utility rates—and how home solar may reduce exposure to those increases.

Energy production and efficiency is what we're all about. Harness the power of the sun.

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Inspired by a 90's classic, this video shows how a solar sales pitch can go up in flames, but still come out okay.

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What does it really feel like to own a solar system with a battery backup?

Ever wondered what actually happens during a solar install? In this full behind-the-scenes breakdown, Mitch from Big Dog Solar takes you step-by-step through a real installation — no fluff, just the real process from start to finish.

Off-Grid Solar 101: What You Really Need to KnowThinking about cutting the cord to the utility grid and powering your home with 100% solar?

Stop guessing when you should go solar.In this video, Mitch Workman breaks down why “the best time to go solar” isn’t always summer—and why waiting could cost you months of savings and key incentives.

Many homeowners jump into solar without fully understanding the potential pitfalls. In this video, we break down five critical reasons why installing solar panels might not be the smart financial move you think it is.

Skeptical About Solar? You’re Not Alone.In this video, we read a real review from a homeowner who wasn’t sure about solar at first — and what happened next might surprise you.

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Thinking about going solar in Idaho? This video breaks down everything you need to know to make a smart decision. We cover the real costs, savings potential, and whether solar is a good fit for your home based on

At Big Dog Solar, we don’t just install solar panels—we build relationships powered by trust, quality, and results that exceed expectations.

Thinking about going solar in 2025? In this video we break down every real-world advantage and drawback of installing solar panels this year—updated for today’s prices, incentives, battery tech, and utility-rate realities.

Do solar panels eliminate your electric bill? Not exactly — and if you don't know how solar billing works, you might be in for a surprise.

Thinking about going solar? Jason Thornton, a Big Dog Solar customer since 2021, shares how he chose Big Dog. From a smooth, easy installation to ongoing support, Jason’s experience has been nothing but positive—proof that going solar doesn’t have to be complicated!

Power outage? No worries. With Big Dog Solar, staying powered up is easy! No more stress about blackouts or rising costs—just peace of mind, all day, every day.

Frank’s power is out… again. And his steaks? Thawing fast. Good thing Carol’s Big Dog Solar system keeps her home powered and prepared for anything! No surprises, no stress—just reliable energy, even when the grid goes down.

Reliable energy in your home helps bring peace of mind and prepares you for the worst of surprises.

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Mother knows best, and these moms know just how important it is to be prepared for the unexpected. Going solar with Big Dog solar is a major help in bringing peace of mind.

In this home, other than utility bills, surprises are my worst enemy. Yeah, I take no prisoners—if you don’t prepare for anything, things get out of hand real fast.

But with Big Dog Solar, I’m always prepared. No surprises, just solid peace of mind.

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As a mom, life can feel like a circus—you have to be prepared for anything! While I may not be psychic, I could definitely win a gold medal in disaster preparedness.

Thanks to Big Dog Solar, going solar is an absolute breeze. No more worrying about power outages, rising bills, or inflation. When the power goes out, our backup battery and solar panels kick in—keeping us up and running.

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Solar helps you take your preparedness to the next level. Let's see if it's worth it for you!

At Big Dog Solar, we make the process to independent energy as smooth as a jet stream.

We're breaking down the details of product and performance warranties, including how long your investment is covered. Find our why Big Dog Solar is your go to for reliable solar solutions.

Uncover the compelling tax benefits of solar power in our latest video! Learn how you can maximize savings with a generous 30% tax credit, which far exceeds the advantages of a standard tax deduction. Join us as we explore the financial rewards of transitioning to solar energy!

Discover the exceptional durability of our solar panels in our latest video! Learn how our panels are engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions including snow, wind, and hail. With Big Dog Solar, you can count on reliability and strength for your renewable energy investment.

Learn how easy it is to maintain your home solar panel system with our latest video! Discover why a simple hose-down is often all you need to keep your panels shining.

Looking for the honest truth about solar? Our latest video breaks down the top 5 reasons why solar might not be the right fit for you. From considerations about your home's foundation to the impact of tree coverage and utility benefits, this video provides essential insights for your solar decision making.

There's a lot of power in positivity and love. We thought it might be time to start spreading the love and providing power in other ways.

If you've heard of solar, you've probably heard of Big Dog! Serving thousands of solar customers across the country for over 20 years, Big Dog is one of the best in the industry. Owners and founders, Brad and Michelle Barrett take us on the Big Dog journey as they describe how the company got started and become what it is today!

We love our community! Come with us to see how some local STEM students do with their very own solar oven projects!

Residential and Commercial grade solar panels have to be pretty resilient to withstand hail and other flying objects. So we decided to see how much stress our local "Cyclone" 10U softball team could put on them. As it turns out, these kids could really sling it, but the solar panel withstood all the girls could throw at it. Read More

Any time is a good time for solar, but there is a best time. Read More

What's the big deal? Having your own energy source is! Read More

Solar is a long term investment that will continue to pay back. Read More

A close up look at how solar panels are connected to your roof. Read More

You'll know more about Mitch than his own Mother. Read More

A sneak peak of how the magic happens.

What's up with that Texas? Read More

Giving customers the ability to use their power when the grid is down. Why do people get battery backups?

You miss 100% of the shots that you don't take. Go big or go home. Read More

Strong leadership leads to a solid foundation. Here is why Big Dog has been for over 20 years. Read More

Mitch may be obnoxious, but the information is still good. Read More

Often times businesses can save more than residential customers, all while promoting Green Energy and a social responsibility for your company. Read More

Big Dog is like a family. Hear from one of our awesome crew guys about why he loves Big Dog!

Questions about maintenance? What if we told you there isn't much at all! Now, that sounds like a win. Read More

Social distancing didn't stop Big Dog from giving back to customers. Check out our unique ways we delivered gifts to customers! Read More

Set your worries aside and let's talk about what solar is, and what it's not. Read More

Big Dog does all it can to ensure customer satisfaction. But when the working day is done taking needed breaks are also important, and we like each other enough to even play together on our days off... Big Dog Family!!! Read More

Every team needs some all-stars and here are a few of our Big Dog Solar "All-Stars". We're proud of the work they do for all of our customers. Read More

What's the difference between mono crystalline and polycrystalline solar panels? Well, we're here to explain the difference and the best situation for each. Read More

We go to the streets and get a first-hand look at what people know about solar and which fair foods make their mouths water. Get ready to chuckle.

Solar panels are great, but some people have fears of having panels break on them. Well fear no more, as we put the Silfab 300 to the test with Ice Chunks, baseballs, and Golf Balls. Read More

Saving with solar energy doesn't have to be complicated. We try our best to explain the basic concept behind residential or commercial solar energy and where the savings come into play. Read More

Every homeowner is unique, but may also share some traits with some of our other customers. Listen to why this family went Solar with Big Dog and started saving money right away. Read More

Often times businesses can save more than residential customers, all while promoting Green Energy and a social responsibility for your company. Read More

We've been blessed enough to be in business for over 20 years, because of the local residents that support local businesses. This is one small way that we can give back and hope to brighten people's days.

Learning is fun. Here are 3 fun facts about solar in Idaho.

Lots of people ask about what to expect for the installations process for solar. Well, it can get pretty technical and detailed, but here is the basic overview of the process we go through with all of our customers to get them hooked up with renewable energy.