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The Top 10 Solar Myths Exposed

Many Myths Surround The Use Of Solar Power Nowadays. We Separate The Facts From The Fiction.


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As clean energy solutions become more and more popular across the world, Americans find themselves with questions about “going green”, and whether the technology presented to them will actually yield a significant return on investment. Anyone interested in turning to solar naturally wants to achieve energy independence for their own reasons, but there still seems to be a lot of naysayers and supposed experts who only end up adding to the confusion.

At Solar Cost Guide we debunk the most common myths and spread the facts on solar. Here is a list of the top 10 myths:

1. Solar Panels Simply Cost Too Much

This is possibly the worst solar myth of all. With the range of modern financing options available today, many more homes been able to convert to solar than ever before. Several amazing tax breaks, government rebates and other incentives are there to cash in on, and homeowners are able to cut their initial outlay by as much as 50%.

Going solar for $0 down through leasing or solar loans is the most popular way to go convert. This allows you to benefit from renewable energy without putting down a single cent.  Once your panels are switched on, you will literally start saving money from day one and eliminate a big chunk of your monthly electricity bill.

Not only can you start saving dollars  for no money upfront, but solar is one of the only investments which pays for itself over the course of its natural lifespan. Most solar systems end up paying for themselves in 10 years or less.

The trick to getting the best deal, however, is by comparing as many quotes as possible. This will allow you to make an informed decision based on your available options and your unique requirements.

2. Solar Will Become More Efficient And Cheaper. It’s Better To Wait

The reality is, we still use the same solar technology developed in the 1960’s. Although there have been some amazing advancements over the last 2 decades, solar has only become marginally more efficient in all this time.

We literally have the technology in our possession right now to lead us into a gridless future. Instead of waiting you should by now already be benefiting from thousands of dollars saved on your utility bills. There really has never been an easier time to convert.

3. Installing Solar Is Complicated

Yes, this is true…unless you are a certified solar installer, of course.

Solar panels should be installed by professionals only, and DIY solar installations are not recommended at all. It’s vital to respect the solar technology enough and install it correctly. Luckily, once you request a solar quote, most solar companies offer free consultations. They will be able to answer all of your questions about the installation process, and what’s more important, they will be able to take care of all the paperwork, necessary permits and inspections before installation begins.

4. Solar Panels Will Damage My Roof

Most solar panels actually attach to a railing and not directly to the roof itself. It goes without saying that you should have your roof inspected before you have any work done. If your roof has a leak or some fault prior to installation, you should definitely repair or replace it before installing any panels.

The fact is that placing solar panels on your roof actually protects the area it’s installed over. Any leaks or problem that may arise after the installation can easily be taken care of by simply removing a panel from its railing.

On the other hand, if a certified solar panel installer damages your roof during installation,  rest assured that they will cover the costs.

5. Solar Panel Maintenance Is Costly

This simply isn’t true. For starters, solar panels don’t have any moving parts and they do not require regular maintenance. Naturally, solar panels must be clean to function optimally, but even if your solar panels are really dirty, they only stand to lose about 5-6%. If it never, ever rains, just water off the dust once a year and they’re good. The latest solar panels have software to pick up any drop in power production anyway, and if you lease the panels, your chosen provider takes care of the maintenance for you.

6. Solar Panels Will Look Ugly On My Roof

Green properties are on the radar, and solar has become one of only a handful of investments which serve to instantly improve your home’s curb appeal. From an economic perspective, solar panels on the roof is one of the smartest financial investment homeowners make nowadays to increase their property’s value.  Installing solar panels will not only help you get a higher asking price should you try to sell, but it can also help your home sell faster than properties without solar installations. If you have a leasing contract, it will be easily transferred to the new owners.

7. Solar Panels Increase Property Taxes

Actually, it’s quite the opposite.

Solar is calculated on a 20:1 ratio. So, for every dollar you save by converting to solar, your property’s value increases by $20. Should you save $1000 per year, your property will receive a $20,000 boost! And what’s more, the increase in value is 100% tax exempt.

8. Solar Will Not Work In Colder, Overcast Climates

Solar panels are not affected by ambient light and produce sufficient power on overcast or foggy days. They can actually be more efficient in cooler weather as they do tend to lose some efficiency in hot weather. This may sound unconvincing, but if you think that solar might not work due to your weather, consider the fact that Germany is leading the world in residential solar energy, yet their climate can be colder than a polar bear’s toenails.

9. Solar Panels Require Tracking Systems To Follow The Sun

Trackers can provide solar gains, but on residential roofs they do not increase overall efficiency enough to justify the extra expenses. These trackers also take up a lot of space and require a lot more maintenance for their moving parts.

10. Solar Power Isn’t For Free

Well, yes, it’s may not be totally for free, but the return on investment will speak for itself. Solar is viable energy solution to combat global warming… and that is priceless.

Whichever way you choose to finance your solar, you will inevitably not only be saving the environment, but thousands of dollars in the long run too.

If you are ready to start saving money with an eco-friendly solution, simply enter your zip in the area provided on the right.

Doing this will enable you to receive as many as four, 100% free, no obligation estimates from certified installers in your area.

 

 

Costs Reported Nationwide:

Solar Installation


Minimum Cost - $ 10,500
Average Cost - $ 19,555
Maximum Cost - $ 30,000

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Johnny K
Solar Energy Expert
Member since 2015
 
 
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