With climate change accelerating and electricity rates rising, more homeowners are considering installing solar
energy systems to power their homes. Nevertheless, according to the experts at solar energy company Vivint Solar,
misconceptions about how solar panels work and their costs and benefits persist. In thisarticle,we willlook at some
prevalent solar energy myths and present the facts to help homeowners decide if going solar is right for their home.
Myth #1: Solar panels don’t work in cold, cloudy places.
Fact: While solar panels are indeed more efficient at converting sunlight into electricity in sunny climates, advances
in technology have dramatically increased solar conversion efficiency and performance in less than ideal conditions.
Solar panels still generate clean power even on cloudy days and older panels were less optimized for low light
conditions. Modern solar panels use high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon cells and anti-reflective coatings to
maximize energy production year-round, even in cold northern states that get far less sun.
Myth #2: Solar panels require high maintenance and frequent repairs.
Fact: Today’s solar panels are extremely durable and are designed to withstand extreme weather with little
degradation over decades. With no moving parts, solar PV systems require almost no maintenance except occasional
cleaning. Reputable solar companies provide long warranties of at least 10 years to protect against defects, during
which they’ll replace broken parts for free. Overall, solar systems have proven remarkably reliable investments for
homeowners seeking low-maintenance rooftop fixtures.
Myth #3: Installing solar panels is too complicated for most homes.
Fact: Advances in modular panel systems and wireless connectivity have made installing solar energy systems
simpler than ever. Most solar providers handle permitting, grid connection approvals, and system sizing
recommendations tailored to each home, minimizing homeowner responsibilities. Panel mounting has also improved
drastically with seamless, non-penetrating attachment methods appropriate for most roof types. The panels connect
via wires to a solar inverter that feeds power to the home’s electrical system with no need to understand complex
wiring. Homeowners wanting solar power can have systems up and running with minimal disruption
Myth #4: Solar energy only works when the sun is out.
Fact: Solar systems are grid-connected, automatically supplementing grid electricity when solar production is low.
Any excess solar energy feeds into the grid, earning bill credits under net metering policies. This means homeowners
get reliable 24/7 power with solar smoothing out electricity costs. Adding small home batteries offers additional
resilience during grid outages, storing solar energy for overnight use. With robust net metering rules and battery
backups, homeowners can tap solar power day and night.
Myth #5: Solar panels lose efficiency quickly over time.
Fact: Extensive testing and decades of solar panel performance data confirm modern solar systems maintain very
high energy production for 30 years or longer. Efficiency loss is gradual, with solar modules typically retaining 80-
90% rated efficiency after 25+ years. Improved manufacturing standards help panels better withstand decades of
outdoor exposure. Supporting electrical components may need replacement after 10-15 years, but the panels
themselves remain productive assets for decades, providing excellent return on investment over their usable
lifespan.
Conclusion
These solar energy myths often deter homeowners from adopting renewable power generation. However, as this
article explains, technological improvements have made modern solar PV systems robust, low-maintenance
investments that provide reliable green energy for decades, even in less-than-ideal climates and homes. With
options for battery backups and net metering to ensure 24/7 solar benefits, homeowners can debunk these myths
and confidently embrace solar systems to reduce environmental impact and electricity expenses. Reputable solar
providers offer customized solutions to transform homes with sustainable solar power systems.