The Top 9 Myths About Installing Solar & The Truth Behind Them

Solar power is a rapidly growing industry that has been gaining momentum in recent years. However, despite its many benefits, there are still a number of misconceptions surrounding solar energy.

In this article, we will be exploring the top 9 myths about solar power installation and uncovering the truth behind them.

Solar Power Myths

Many people believe that solar power is expensive and unreliable, or that it only works in sunny climates. However, these myths couldn’t be further from the truth.

The reality is that solar power is becoming increasingly affordable and efficient, and it can work just as well in cloudy and rainy conditions as it does on bright, sunny days. By debunking these common myths about solar power, we hope to help more people see the incredible potential of this renewable energy source and embrace it as a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels.

Myth 1: Solar panels take more energy to build than they actually produce

False. With advancements in technology and manufacturing techniques, solar panels are becoming more energy efficient to produce. In fact, it takes between 1.7 and 2.3 years for a solar system to pay itself back in terms of carbon cost. This includes the mining of raw materials, production of the panels, transport of parts, and product use.

A good quality solar system should last between 20-30 years before requiring any replacements, with a performance warranty of up to 25 years. This means that if we use the higher end of the pay-back scale at 2.3 years, your solar system should pay back its manufacturing energy costs almost 11 times over in its lifetime while also having a positive environmental impact.

Myth 2: Solar panels don’t work on cloudy days.

False. Many people believe that solar panels don’t work on cloudy days, but this is a myth. In fact, solar panels will still generate energy even when it’s overcast outside, although their efficiency may be reduced. This is because clouds don’t completely block out all sunlight – some rays still manage to penetrate through and power your solar panels.

However, the degree to which the sunlight is blocked out depends on the type of clouds in the sky. To help you understand how cloudy days affect solar panel efficiency, here are four types of clouds and their impact:

1. Cumulus clouds: These fluffy white clouds can actually enhance solar panel performance by reflecting more light onto them.
2. Cirrus clouds: These thin wispy clouds allow most of the sunlight to pass through and have little effect on solar panel efficiency.
3. Altostratus clouds: These grayish-blue mid-level clouds can reduce solar panel output by up to 30% due to their thickness.
4. Stratocumulus clouds: These low-lying dark gray clouds can decrease efficiency by up to 60% as they create a strong barrier between the sun and your solar panels.

Overall, while cloudy days may lead to reduced solar panel efficiency, they won’t stop them from generating energy altogether. So don’t let this myth discourage you from installing solar panels – your system will still be producing electricity even on those dreary Gold Coast days!

Myth 3: Solar panel installation is expensive and has a slow return on investment

False.  There are plenty of incentives and schemes available that can help reduce the cost of solar panels and make them more affordable. Depending on the size of the system and the incentives you’re eligible for, solar panels usually have a payback time of 3-5 years.

Incentives & Schemes

Believe it or not, government rebates and programs make the cost of solar panels more affordable than ever. With so many incentives and schemes available, it’s no longer true that solar panels are expensive and a bad investment.

Plus, beyond the cost savings to your wallet, there’s also the significant environmental impact of using renewable energy sources like solar power. These programs extend beyond just solar panel installation – they also include battery storage incentives which can further reduce energy costs for homeowners.

Don’t let the myth that solar panels are too expensive to hold you back from making a smart investment in your home and in our planet’s future.

Solar Cost & Payback

But how much does solar really cost, and how long will it take for you to see a return on your investment?

The good news is that solar financing options and government incentives have made solar more affordable than ever before. Depending on your electricity usage and system size, you could achieve full payback in as little as 3-5 years with a grid-connected solar power system.

And with so many incentives and schemes available, the upfront costs of installation are significantly reduced. Say goodbye to the myth that solar panels are too expensive – investing in renewable energy has never been more financially beneficial or environmentally impactful.

Myth 4: My solar can provide power during a blackout

False. While solar panels may generate energy during the day, they cannot store that energy for use at night or during power outages. This is where battery storage comes in handy.

Investing in a battery storage system will give you peace of mind knowing that you have backup power when you need it most. Some batteries come equipped with blackout power as a standard feature, while others require additional setup work.

Don’t hesitate to discuss your needs with your Gold Coast solar installer and ask if blackout power is available for your system. With battery storage, you can rest assured that your home or business will remain powered up even when the grid goes down.

Myth 5: Installing a solar system reduces electricity costs

True. While it is true that installing solar panels alone does not necessarily make your electricity cheaper, it can lead to significant energy savings in the long term. How much money you save on your electricity bills depends on how you use the power generated by your solar panels.

Here are some ways you can maximise the benefits of solar power and experience long-term benefits:

• Use energy during the day: Running appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during daylight hours will reduce your reliance on grid-connected electricity at night.
• Consider a feed-in tariff: If you generate excess solar energy that goes unused, you’ll receive a credit on your bill called a ‘feed-in tariff’. This helps to further reduce your electricity bills.
• Add battery storage: By adding battery storage to your system, you can store any excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night, reducing even more reliance on grid-connected electricity.
• Monitor usage: Keep track of how much energy is being used in your home and adjust accordingly. Making small changes, such as turning off lights when they’re not needed or using efficient appliances, can add up over time.
• Choose high-quality equipment: Investing in high-quality solar panels and inverters may cost more upfront but will pay off in the long run with higher efficiency and durability.

By implementing these strategies, you can experience significant energy savings and reap the long-term benefits of solar power without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Myth 6: I don’t use power during the day so Solar Panels aren’t worth it

False. If you don’t use power during the day, it’s easy to assume that solar panels aren’t worth the investment. However, this myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Solar panel efficiency continues to improve each year, making them a smart investment for homeowners who want to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint.

Additionally, off-grid solar systems are becoming more popular among those who want complete energy independence. With an off-grid system, you can store excess electricity generated during the day in batteries and use it at night or during periods of low sunlight.

This means you won’t have to rely on the grid for any of your energy needs. So even if you don’t use much power during the day, solar panels can still provide significant benefits for your home and wallet.

Myth 7: Solar Panels require lots of maintenance

False. Maintaining your solar panels is simple and painless. Solar panel longevity is an important factor to consider when deciding whether or not to invest in them. Fortunately, solar panels have a long lifespan of up to 25 years with little maintenance required.

Additionally, a maintenance cost comparison shows that the cost of maintaining solar panels is significantly less than traditional energy sources.

By simply removing any debris or dirt and ensuring there are no sources of shading, you can keep your solar panels functioning at optimal levels for years to come.

Don’t let the fear of maintenance stop you from enjoying the benefits of solar power, contact our solar installer on the Gold Coast today and receive a free in-home consultation and quote.

Myth 8: Installing Solar Panels will damage my roof

False. If you’re worried that installing solar panels might damage your roof, rest assured that this is nothing more than a myth. Solar panel installations are designed to be safe and non-invasive, with mounting brackets used to secure them in place without causing any harm to your roof.

However, if you’re still concerned about the potential for roof damage, there are alternative installation methods available. For example, you can opt for solar panels that are installed on poles or stands rather than mounted directly onto your roof. This eliminates any risk of damage and also makes it easier to adjust the angle of the panels for optimal sunlight exposure.

By taking a few simple precautions and working with an accredited solar installer who prioritises roof damage prevention, you can enjoy all the benefits of solar power without any fear or worry about damaging your home.

Myth 9: Installing solar panels will adversely impact the resale or rental value of my property

False. Studies have shown that adding solar panels to a home can actually increase its resale or rental value, as it shows potential buyers or renters that they will be able to save on energy costs in the long term.

On average, Gold Coast homes with solar panel installations sell for more than those without them.

Additionally, landlords are likely to charge higher rents if tenants know their utility bills will be lower due to the presence of solar panels. Therefore, installing solar panels may not only help you save money but also add extra value to your home when it comes time to resell or rent it out.

Switch to Solar Energy Today: Request a free in-home quote

Solar energy is an affordable, efficient and accessible way to reduce your power bills while becoming more sustainable. With SolarEze’s 15+ years of experience in the industry, we can help you find a system size that fits your needs and budget perfectly. Our qualified installers will ensure quality installation with a 10-year warranty for peace of mind. Financing options are also available so you can start saving on electricity costs straight away.

Put yourself in control of your utility bills and get solar today by requesting a quote from our experts at Solareze!