As solar has become more and more viable for homeowners over the years, many companies have noticed a large influx of rumors and myths that prevent their dive into the world of solar. Reputable solar installers know the benefits of solar energy and have spent a lot of time ensuring they debunk the most common myths associated with this renewable energy. These common solar energy myths often deter homeowners from going solar unless those falsehoods are fully explained and proven false by credible sources.
Below we have outlined the most common solar energy myths and why you shouldn’t take everything you overhear as the end-all-be-all.
Myth 1: Solar Is Too Expensive
This is by far one of the most common solar energy myths and the one that deters the most homeowners. Solar is now among the world’s cheapest forms of electricity, with the cost dropping over 70% just in the last five years – and in 42 out of 50 of America’s largest cities, it costs less to go solar than purchasing power from the local utility company. Solar systems also last around 25 years (with some lasting upwards of 30 years), meaning you can enjoy benefits for a long time. In addition, there are plenty of effective financing options for homeowners looking to divide the cost of solar over time. Simply put: Solar panels help eligible homeowners pay less for electricity.
Myth 2: You Won’t Save Any Money With Solar Panels
If your home is eligible for harnessing solar, most homeowners save anywhere from 20%-50% on their monthly utility bills. Your eligibility is determined by how much electricity you use, the local utility rate, your roof space, and roof shading, among other factors. A solar expert will be able to review all of your options and how your situation impacts your solar installation.
Some homeowners see the percentages and wonder why they aren’t higher, but the fact is that the sun expends a lot of energy. Ninety minutes of sunshine can power the world for an entire year. There’s a reason we’re slowly transitioning to solar power, so as your energy source, it’s a near certainty that solar panels will save you a ton of energy.
Myth 3: Solar Will Lower Your Home’s Value
Solar agreements are easily transferable to new homeowners, and larger homes with bigger solar grids can get a higher home value for their solar energy systems. A solar panel installation on your roof or in your yard will actually increase your home’s resale value between $3-$4 per watt, or roughly $15,000. In addition, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory cited studies showing that your home value will increase by 20 dollars for every dollar you can save on your energy bills. Thus, your $300-500 monthly savings can add $6,000-$10,000 to your home’s value.
Myth 4: Solar Won’t Work in Cold Climates
All solar panels need to harness energy is ample sunlight. While you will generate less electricity in the winter, this is because the length of daylight is physically shorter — and the energy you accumulate will still save you money on your monthly bill. Additionally, PV panels perform more optimally in cooler temperatures, and you can also get battery storage to provide power during long winter nights.
If you’re worried about cloudy days and rainy or snowy weather impacting your return on investment, you’ll be glad to know that solar panels will still work effectively in these conditions. Even in the worst weather, sunlight still reaches the earth, allowing your solar panel system to continue its energy production, proving this common solar energy myth incorrect.
Myth 5: It Will Damage My Roof
We understand the reason for this concern, as the racking installed for the solar system will need to penetrate the roof. However, this common solar energy myth is inaccurate, as damage from a solar installation is extremely rare. As standard protocol, all solar companies assess the age and condition of the roof to ensure it can handle an installation. On the off-chance damage does occur, the solar company will repair the damages free of charge.
In fact, solar panels offer added protection for homeowners’ roofs, shielding their shingles or other roofing materials from hail and other harsh weather conditions. The mounts are layered against your roof, leaving as few gaps as possible, and also are protected with a metal covering for added protection. By getting an installation from a reputable solar company, you can ensure that your roof is well protected from the elements with your solar panels.
Myth 6: Solar Panels Are Ugly
A common solar energy myth is that solar panels are hideous, but the solar aesthetics have improved year over year. Homeowners no longer have to envision big, chunky blue panels with thick silver frames sticking out as an eye sore. Many companies, like Zenergy Solar, stick to sleek, thin, black-on-black panels that compliment your roof and have them installed as close to the roofing material as possible. It’s like giving your home an instant upgrade!
Myth 7: Solar Panels Require Way Too Much Maintenance
Solar arrays are built in such a way that they are incredibly durable and require very little maintenance. Most solar installers will offer 24/7 maintenance and monitoring of your system to ensure every panel performs properly. If you live in an extremely dirty or dusty environment, you can get your panel cleaned off once a year to ensure effectiveness, but most homeowners don’t have to worry about this common solar energy myth, as maintenance days will be few and far between.
Myth 8: Most States Don’t Offer Incentives
As of 2020, nearly every US state offers rebates or some other level of incentive for choosing solar energy, and you can also receive rebates from certain electric companies upon installation. While some states offer more than others, some states lacking in solar capacity are starting to catch up. Plus, if you finance your system this year, you’ll be able to enjoy the 26% federal tax credit against the system’s total cost, while in 2023, the tax goes down to 22%.
Myth 9: Solar Panels Require a Special Type of Insurance Policy
Homeowners often worry about the smaller implications of installing a solar energy system and how that might affect their wallets. A common solar energy myth is that homeowners need to worry about getting additional insurance, adding to their total cost. Fortunately, most homeowners insurance covers solar energy systems, which are considered permanent installations. Just ensure that your insurance can cover the cost of your solar panels.
Myth 10: Excess Solar Energy Goes to Waste
Having a grid tied to your solar system is never bad, as you can still benefit from net metering and keep your local utility company, which may allow you to have unused electricity credited to your account. But, if you are located in an area away from power grids or that suffers recurring power outages, an off-grid system with batteries can provide backup power that stores energy and helps you combat fossil fuel use without worry.
Ready for a Fact? You Should Get Your Solar Panels Installed With Zenergy Solar!
There are plenty of solar energy myths out there, but you shouldn’t let them deter you from the energy savings you can receive. With Zenergy Solar, you can find out if you qualify to benefit from solar energy, and our expert associates can outline how solar power can help your home and wallet. Call us today for a free quote with no obligation, or learn more about why solar is right for you.
