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If you’re considering a solar panel installation for your home or business, you are likely doing a lot of research online. Unfortunately, if you aren’t using trusted sources, you will encounter a lot of falsehoods and unreliable information. This might discourage you from making the investment in a solar power system. In this blog, we debunk common myths about solar power in Ocala, FL, and discuss the many advantages of solar power. Get the facts about what solar power is, how it works, and the benefits of going solar at your home or business.

Debunking Common Myths About Solar Power

The most common myths about solar power systems are that they are too expensive, require a lot of maintenance, and only work on sunny days. Let’s take a look at each of these myths to better explain why they are not true:

• Solar Power Is Too Expensive – Advances in technology and a wider availability of parts and installers have actually made solar panel installation more affordable than ever before. The upfront cost of solar installation has decreased, and home and business owners can take advantage of long-term savings on energy bills as well as tax credits and incentives that offset installation costs.
• Solar Panels Require a Lot of Maintenance – Modern solar panel systems that are professionally installed don’t require any more maintenance than any other major home appliance. They need to be cleaned periodically to remove dirt and debris.
• Solar Panels Only Work on Sunny Days – Solar panels absorb energy from sunlight. Even on cloudy, cold, and overcast days, they can produce power. When you install a solar battery backup system along with your solar panels, the battery backup will store excess power that is generated on sunny days so that your property has reliable access to power 24/7/365.

Dispelling Myths About Solar Reliability and Practicality

There are also a lot of common solar power myths regarding how solar electricity works, and its reliability and practicality. Let’s dispel a few of the most common ones:

• Solar Panels Don’t Last Long – Modern solar panels are carefully designed and constructed with durable, weather-resistant materials. When they are properly installed and maintained, they can last 25-30 years or longer. Most are also protected by manufacturer warranties.
• Going Solar Means Going Off the Grid – The majority of solar panels are still connected to the local utility grid. The panels are used as a cost-effective and reliable power backup rather than the only source of power. While you can choose to be 100% energy independent with solar panel installation, most people do not do so.
• Solar Power Is Only for Small-scale or Residential Use – Solar power systems are actually incredibly versatile and flexible. They can be adapted and scaled to almost any need, and are used in large-scale solar farms, industrial installations, businesses, schools, and government facilities.

Addressing Weather-Related Myths

Many people think that solar power energy systems are not as effective in stormy areas of the country. Solar panels still work in cloudy, overcast, rainy, and cold regions. Power output may decrease slightly during storms; however, they still produce power on rainy, cloudy days. In fact, solar panels installed on homes or businesses in foggy or cloudy regions only produce 1% less solar energy than solar power systems in hot, sunny regions. Solar power systems are also much more efficient in cooler temperatures. If you live in a region that is regularly cloudy, rainy, or overcast, you can also invest in a solar battery backup system. Solar batteries store the excess energy that is gathered on sunny days so that they can provide continuous power during long stretches of bad weather or cloudy days. 

Debunking Financial and Environmental Myths

Two other myths about solar power are that solar panel installation isn’t worth the investment and that solar panels aren’t as sustainable or eco-friendly as they are made out to be. Solar panels actually offer long-term, sustainable energy savings. They can increase your property’s resale value, lower your energy bills and carbon footprint, reduce your environmental impact, and ensure you have access to reliable power during a power outage. While there is an initial upfront cost, the cost can be recouped via lower energy bills and tax incentives. Though the production of solar panels requires energy and resources, their environmental impact is much lower than that of fossil fuels. They have a lifespan of 25-30 years and are recyclable.

Call Solar Lights & More for a Solar Energy Consultation

If you want to learn more about the benefits of going solar at your home or business, our team at Solar Lights & More can help. We have been installing solar power systems throughout North Central Florida since 1996. Our experienced, friendly team of solar specialists can assist you with a wide range of solar services, including solar pool heaters, solar panel installation and removal, solar attic and garage fans, and solar lights. Call us now or contact us online to request an estimate for solar installation.