Are you interested in installing solar panels at your home and conducting research online? Are the information scattered and hard to form a clear understanding of solar panels? In this article, we present the 8 most common misconceptions about residential solar panels and what the reality is.
Key points of the article:
-Solar panels do not eliminate your electricity bill
-The electricity generated by residential solar panels is not sold
-There is no power during a blackout
-Solar panels do not damage the roof of the house
-Solar panels are efficient even in the winter months
-There are aesthetically pleasing installations that do not ruin the appearance of the house
-Solar panel maintenance is minimal
-Solar panels are silent
The resurgence of solar panels in the spotlight, especially in the last two years, has led more and more people to consider shifting to green energy.
The truth is that this sector is still relatively new to many, and by searching for scattered information online, potential buyers often end up with misconceptions.
Not a few of our customers at ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables have come to us expressing interest in solar panels for their homes, believing they would receive cash returns on their investment, just like large solar parks they read about online.
Currently, there is huge demand for residential solar panels, and in this article, we will present the most common misconceptions about residential solar panels and what the truth actually is.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #1: Solar Panels Eliminate Your Electricity Bill
Most people interested in residential solar panels believe that installing a solar system on their roof will completely eliminate their electricity bills.
In fact, this is the primary reason they want to install solar panels, claiming they will save money on their energy supplier.
However, the reality is quite different. Solar panels can reduce your electricity costs, but not eliminate your entire bill. Your electricity bill will still be issued as usual, and it will include the fixed charges from the supplier.
The biggest benefit and the primary cost concern for households right now is the cost of electricity. This is exactly the problem that solar panels solve, which is why they are a highly worthwhile investment.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #2: Residential Solar Panels Sell Electricity
This misconception arises from two facts. The first is that most people think all solar panels do exactly the same thing, with only differences in size and investment cost.
As a result, when searching online for information about solar panels, they read articles about solar parks, which are very popular and have been in the news with both positive and negative stories.
Solar parks are purely investment projects where the owner sells electricity to the grid and earns money. On the other hand, residential solar panels offset the energy produced with the energy consumed. If the production of electricity meets the household's consumption, the household pays nothing. If it doesn't, they only pay for the difference. Any excess energy is stored in the grid for up to three years.
The second reason for this misconception stems from the energy storage systems, as up until a decade ago, surplus energy could be sold. This is no longer the case.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #3: There is Energy During a Power Outage
One of the misconceptions about residential solar panels is related to power outages and energy availability. Often, we hear from customers that one of the advantages of installing solar panels is that they will still have energy in the event of a blackout.
However, this is not true. Solar panels are designed to automatically stop generating energy during a power outage.
This misconception has arisen from standalone battery systems sold by companies that offer solar panels. People assume these batteries are part of a solar installation, like inverters, but they are a completely different system and require additional equipment. If you choose a standalone solar system, then, through the batteries, you will have energy even after a power outage.
The downside of batteries is that if the battery malfunctions, there will be no power in the house until the issue is fixed, as the house has been disconnected from the grid.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #4: Solar Panels Damage the Roof
A major objection we often encounter at ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables when installing solar panels is the potential damage to the roof.
Many people worry that their roof won't withstand the installation, fearing it could damage the insulation or cause water leaks.
This, however, is a major misconception and one of the most common misconceptions about residential solar panels. On the contrary, a solar installation can actually benefit the roof by protecting it from weather-related wear and tear.
To be fair, there is a possibility of damage to the roof, but this would not be caused by the solar panels themselves, but by poor installation. This is a key reason why at ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we encourage our clients to choose a reputable company with a proven track record in solar panel design and installation, rather than opting for the cheapest option.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #5: Solar Panels Do Not Work Well in Winter
There is a belief that during winter, because it's cold and not hot, solar panels do not perform well. The reality is that solar panels are efficient in both winter and summer.
Certainly, there are months when solar panels are more efficient, but this is not due to the temperature but to the length of the day.
Keep in mind that solar panels generate energy from sunlight, not heat. Therefore, during the months when the days are longer, there is increased production, but this does not mean that winter months are not productive. On the contrary, winter months are also productive, as solar panels generate more energy in cooler conditions compared to overheated conditions. This is another common misconception about residential solar panels.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #6: Solar Panels Ruin the Appearance of a House
Aesthetic design is now an important factor in the design of solar panels by manufacturers, and this process will continue to evolve as technology advances, with thinner panels coming to market.
The issue of aesthetics also depends on the company you choose to install your solar panels, which will suggest specific panels for your needs.
Although some people believe solar panels ruin the appearance of a house, this is not typically the case in most installations, and only a rare poor installation might cause an issue.
At ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we emphasize aesthetics and always recommend solar panels that are cost-effective, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #7: Solar Panels Require a Lot of Maintenance
Because solar panels are a fairly large installation, many people assume that their solar system will require extensive maintenance.
This assumption makes sense, as we are used to having high maintenance costs for expensive and large items like homes or cars.
However, with solar panels, the opposite is true. Maintenance is minimal. The only required maintenance is an annual cleaning with water and common cleaning products, a task that can even be done by the owner themselves.
Solar panels are extremely durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. In case of a malfunction, there are warranties from the manufacturer, but malfunctions are a different issue and not part of regular maintenance.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #8: Solar Panels Make Noise
A major misconception that makes potential buyers hesitant is the belief that solar panels make noise.
Many people think that because solar panels are a large installation that generates electricity, they must produce noise. They even associate them with industrial solar panels, like those used in factories, where machines produce constant noise.
The truth is that solar panels are almost completely silent. If there is any noise, it comes from the inverter, but if the inverter is not in the same room, you will most likely not hear it.
If you're concerned about nighttime noise, rest assured that there will be none, as solar panels do not generate energy during the night when it's dark.
Conclusion
These are eight of the most common misconceptions about residential solar panels that we've identified through discussions with our clients.
As you can see, the reality is quite different, and the misconceptions arise primarily from a lack of knowledge about solar panels.
Certainly, we should not expect the general public to know all the technical details about solar panels. That's why we're here – to listen, answer all questions professionally, and act in the best interest of the customer.
Photovoltaics by ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables: By your side every step of the way
At ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we have experience in the study and installation of photovoltaics. We have installed photovoltaic parks as well as systems for residences and businesses throughout Greece, including islands. We handle all the processes, from potential financing to the study, the submission of the application, the installation, and we deliver your photovoltaic system turnkey.
Are you interested in photovoltaic; Click on the button “I Want a phone appointment” below, fill out the form and a competent engineer will contact with you to solve all your questions and to guide you to the right decision.
The 8 Most Common Misconceptions About Residential Solar Panels. What is the Truth?
George Kotakis
Electrical Engineer |
ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Autonomous
Are you interested in installing solar panels at your home and conducting research online? Are the information scattered and hard to form a clear understanding of solar panels? In this article, we present the 8 most common misconceptions about residential solar panels and what the reality is.
Key points of the article:
-Solar panels do not eliminate your electricity bill
-The electricity generated by residential solar panels is not sold
-There is no power during a blackout
-Solar panels do not damage the roof of the house
-Solar panels are efficient even in the winter months
-There are aesthetically pleasing installations that do not ruin the appearance of the house
-Solar panel maintenance is minimal
-Solar panels are silent
The resurgence of solar panels in the spotlight, especially in the last two years, has led more and more people to consider shifting to green energy.
The truth is that this sector is still relatively new to many, and by searching for scattered information online, potential buyers often end up with misconceptions.
Not a few of our customers at ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables have come to us expressing interest in solar panels for their homes, believing they would receive cash returns on their investment, just like large solar parks they read about online.
Currently, there is huge demand for residential solar panels, and in this article, we will present the most common misconceptions about residential solar panels and what the truth actually is.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #1: Solar Panels Eliminate Your Electricity Bill
Most people interested in residential solar panels believe that installing a solar system on their roof will completely eliminate their electricity bills.
In fact, this is the primary reason they want to install solar panels, claiming they will save money on their energy supplier.
However, the reality is quite different. Solar panels can reduce your electricity costs, but not eliminate your entire bill. Your electricity bill will still be issued as usual, and it will include the fixed charges from the supplier.
The biggest benefit and the primary cost concern for households right now is the cost of electricity. This is exactly the problem that solar panels solve, which is why they are a highly worthwhile investment.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #2: Residential Solar Panels Sell Electricity
This misconception arises from two facts. The first is that most people think all solar panels do exactly the same thing, with only differences in size and investment cost.
As a result, when searching online for information about solar panels, they read articles about solar parks, which are very popular and have been in the news with both positive and negative stories.
Solar parks are purely investment projects where the owner sells electricity to the grid and earns money. On the other hand, residential solar panels offset the energy produced with the energy consumed. If the production of electricity meets the household's consumption, the household pays nothing. If it doesn't, they only pay for the difference. Any excess energy is stored in the grid for up to three years.
The second reason for this misconception stems from the energy storage systems, as up until a decade ago, surplus energy could be sold. This is no longer the case.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #3: There is Energy During a Power Outage
One of the misconceptions about residential solar panels is related to power outages and energy availability. Often, we hear from customers that one of the advantages of installing solar panels is that they will still have energy in the event of a blackout.
However, this is not true. Solar panels are designed to automatically stop generating energy during a power outage.
This misconception has arisen from standalone battery systems sold by companies that offer solar panels. People assume these batteries are part of a solar installation, like inverters, but they are a completely different system and require additional equipment. If you choose a standalone solar system, then, through the batteries, you will have energy even after a power outage.
The downside of batteries is that if the battery malfunctions, there will be no power in the house until the issue is fixed, as the house has been disconnected from the grid.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #4: Solar Panels Damage the Roof
A major objection we often encounter at ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables when installing solar panels is the potential damage to the roof.
Many people worry that their roof won't withstand the installation, fearing it could damage the insulation or cause water leaks.
This, however, is a major misconception and one of the most common misconceptions about residential solar panels. On the contrary, a solar installation can actually benefit the roof by protecting it from weather-related wear and tear.
To be fair, there is a possibility of damage to the roof, but this would not be caused by the solar panels themselves, but by poor installation. This is a key reason why at ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we encourage our clients to choose a reputable company with a proven track record in solar panel design and installation, rather than opting for the cheapest option.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #5: Solar Panels Do Not Work Well in Winter
There is a belief that during winter, because it's cold and not hot, solar panels do not perform well. The reality is that solar panels are efficient in both winter and summer.
Certainly, there are months when solar panels are more efficient, but this is not due to the temperature but to the length of the day.
Keep in mind that solar panels generate energy from sunlight, not heat. Therefore, during the months when the days are longer, there is increased production, but this does not mean that winter months are not productive. On the contrary, winter months are also productive, as solar panels generate more energy in cooler conditions compared to overheated conditions. This is another common misconception about residential solar panels.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #6: Solar Panels Ruin the Appearance of a House
Aesthetic design is now an important factor in the design of solar panels by manufacturers, and this process will continue to evolve as technology advances, with thinner panels coming to market.
The issue of aesthetics also depends on the company you choose to install your solar panels, which will suggest specific panels for your needs.
Although some people believe solar panels ruin the appearance of a house, this is not typically the case in most installations, and only a rare poor installation might cause an issue.
At ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we emphasize aesthetics and always recommend solar panels that are cost-effective, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #7: Solar Panels Require a Lot of Maintenance
Because solar panels are a fairly large installation, many people assume that their solar system will require extensive maintenance.
This assumption makes sense, as we are used to having high maintenance costs for expensive and large items like homes or cars.
However, with solar panels, the opposite is true. Maintenance is minimal. The only required maintenance is an annual cleaning with water and common cleaning products, a task that can even be done by the owner themselves.
Solar panels are extremely durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. In case of a malfunction, there are warranties from the manufacturer, but malfunctions are a different issue and not part of regular maintenance.
Misconceptions about Residential Solar Panels #8: Solar Panels Make Noise
A major misconception that makes potential buyers hesitant is the belief that solar panels make noise.
Many people think that because solar panels are a large installation that generates electricity, they must produce noise. They even associate them with industrial solar panels, like those used in factories, where machines produce constant noise.
The truth is that solar panels are almost completely silent. If there is any noise, it comes from the inverter, but if the inverter is not in the same room, you will most likely not hear it.
If you're concerned about nighttime noise, rest assured that there will be none, as solar panels do not generate energy during the night when it's dark.
Conclusion
These are eight of the most common misconceptions about residential solar panels that we've identified through discussions with our clients.
As you can see, the reality is quite different, and the misconceptions arise primarily from a lack of knowledge about solar panels.
Certainly, we should not expect the general public to know all the technical details about solar panels. That's why we're here – to listen, answer all questions professionally, and act in the best interest of the customer.
Photovoltaics by ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables: By your side every step of the way
At ΙΩΝΙΚΗ Renewables, we have experience in the study and installation of photovoltaics. We have installed photovoltaic parks as well as systems for residences and businesses throughout Greece, including islands. We handle all the processes, from potential financing to the study, the submission of the application, the installation, and we deliver your photovoltaic system turnkey.
Are you interested in photovoltaic; Click on the button “I Want a phone appointment” below, fill out the form and a competent engineer will contact with you to solve all your questions and to guide you to the right decision.
