Misinformation can spread like wildfire, and it’s no different in the field of solar. You may hear it at an afternoon barbecue or stumble upon it online. And even I, who’s been in the solar industry for quite a while now, have come across things that even made me do a double take. But don’t let these misconceptions sway you. Otherwise, you might end up passing on an opportunity that could significantly lower your bills and save you money. In this article, I’m setting the record straight by exposing some of the biggest solar myths out there and uncovering interesting facts that all homeowners must know.
Myth 1: Solar Panels Don’t Work in Cloudy or Cold Weather
It doesn’t matter whether it’s cloudy or cold. Your panels will continue working in these conditions as long as sunlight is available.
Although not immediately obvious, sunlight still makes its way through the atmosphere on overcast days, which your panels capture and convert into electricity. However, production naturally dips since diffuse light isn’t as intense as direct light on clear, sunny days.
When it comes to temperature, you might be surprised to know that solar panels perform better in the cold. In fact, one study finds that solar panels can experience a 25% reduction in efficiency when exposed to extremely high temperatures.
And if you’re wondering how practical solar actually is in colder regions, consider this — New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey are among the top solar adopters in the U.S. according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).
Myth 2: Solar Panels Will Damage My Roof
If you really think about it, the opposite is true. Solar panels shield your roof against direct sunlight, heavy rain, and other harsh weather conditions. In that sense, they actually extend your roof’s lifespan.
Still, I understand the worry about roof damage. Seeing holes drilled into your roof and mounting hardware secured in place can definitely make it seem like a leak is inevitable.
But here’s the thing: Roof leak due to solar panel installation is extremely rare, especially when handled by a professional.
In fact, I’m proud to say that the Avail Solar team has never received angry calls from customers about leaks.
I’d guess the same is true for other reputable installers as well. We’re all trained to follow local codes and guidelines to make sure your roof stays secure during and after installation.
And as a bonus, since your roof remains undamaged, your roof warranty won’t be voided and will stay valid.
Myth 3: I Need to Replace My Entire Roof Before Going Solar
Most modern homes have roofs that are more than capable of supporting solar panels. Roofing materials like asphalt shingles, metal, and tiles typically have lifespans of 20 to 50 years, which is well in line with a solar panel system’s expected lifespan.
So, chances are, you won’t need to replace your entire roof.
Although, there are indeed some roofs designed with shorter lifespans, such as rolled roofing or composite shingles, which may only last 10 to 15 years. In this case, it’s highly recommended to replace your roof, especially if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan.
Ultimately, there’s no need to worry too much about your roof. Apart from the fact that it’s likely to support your panel’s weight just fine, it’s our job as solar installers to inspect your roof before installation and confirm that it’s suitable for solar.
Myth 4: Solar Will Make My Home Look Ugly
What if I told you that homes with solar panels tend to sell for extra — about $9,000 more on average? Well, that’s what a study by Zillow, a reputable real-estate marketplace, found.
Not so ugly anymore, right?
That being said, solar doesn’t reduce property value. Rather, it boosts it.
On top of selling higher, it also makes your home sell faster.
In fact, a report from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) finds that homebuyers tend to choose homes that explicitly mention energy-saving features.
They simulated a real estate website and found that listings promoting energy-efficient features attracted more potential buyers.
And this makes sense. Homebuyers see energy-saving upgrades like solar panels as valuable additions that reduce long-term costs.
Now, if you’re really worried about aesthetics, know that today’s solar panels are no longer the clunky, bulky hardware they once were. Instead, most of them are sleek, all-black designs that blend well with most modern roofs, adding something of a designer’s touch to your home.
Myth 5: Solar Only Works on South-Facing Roofs
South-facing roofs are the best in the U.S. because they stay aligned with the sun’s path throughout the day, ensuring maximum sunlight exposure and, in turn, better energy production.
That said, this doesn’t mean solar panels on other roof directions won’t work. In fact, in a previous article I wrote, I explained how combining south- and southwest-facing panels can often yield the best results.
Individually, though, this is how it pans out…
East-facing roofs receive more sunlight in the morning, while west-facing roofs get more sun in the afternoon. North-facing roofs, meanwhile, get the least sun exposure, so they naturally have the lowest energy production.
Bottom line is that, as I mentioned when discussing Myth 1, solar panels will generate power as long as there’s sunlight, regardless of which direction your roof faces.
Myth 6: I Won’t Save Much Because My Energy Bills Are Already Low
If you’ve kept a tight handle on your electricity spending, props to you! That’s no easy feat.
But here’s something to think about. If you’ve already mastered managing your energy use, imagine how much more you could be saving with the right setup in place. What do I mean by this?
Bear in mind that electricity rates rise at an average of 2-3% per year. Meanwhile, with solar, you’ll be paying a predictable, flat rate for the energy you consume. If we crunch the numbers, this is how it could play out:
| Year | Year Dollars Spent on Electricity* | Dollars Spent on Solar (Solar Loan)** |
| 1 | $1,726 | $1,200 |
| 5 | $1,928 | $1,200 |
| 10 | $2,213 | $1,200 |
| 15 | $2,541 | $1,200 |
| 20 | $2,917 | $1,200 |
| Total | $45,448 | $24,000 |
| Solar Savings: | $21,448 | |
**Based on an average monthly consumption of 899 kWh at $0.16/kWh, with a projected 3% annual increase reflecting typical U.S. utility rate inflation.
**Assumes a $17,000 system with a 30% federal tax credit applied, resulting in a $1,200 fixed annual payment over 20 years at 5.99% interest.
As you can see, you could be missing out on thousands of dollars in solar savings if you stick with traditional electricity.
Myth 7: There’s Such a Thing as “Free Solar Panels”
“Free solar panels” is just a marketing ploy designed to grab attention.
It’s what solar companies often use to aggressively promote solar leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs) — options that typically require no upfront payment — hence the term “free.”
Unfortunately, it’s far from free, because you pay for it in other ways.
For one, these contracts typically lock you into long-term agreements that stretch 20 years or more. Plus, since you don’t own the system, selling your home can become much more complicated.
I’m not a big fan of these options myself because, oftentimes, homeowners in such arrangements often end up searching for ways to get out of a solar panel contract.
Whenever possible, better buy your panels outright or at least finance them. This way, you’ll own your system and enjoy the most savings in the long run.
Myth 8: Solar Panels Require Constant Maintenance
Solar panels are basically a one-and-done investment. Once installed, they quietly go about their job with very little effort on your part.
In fact, we installers really only get called out for major panel issues like hardware or wiring damage. And that’s usually just once in a blue moon.
As for cleaning, rain often does a good job of washing away dust and debris. But if you live in a dusty or pollen-heavy area, we recommend giving your panels a quick rinse (it’s as simple as running a garden hose over them) from time to time.
Myth 9: Solar Power Doesn’t Work During Power Outages
Well, this is technically true — unless you have a solar backup battery.
Most homeowners have grid-tied solar systems, which automatically shut off during power outages for safety reasons.
However, if you have a backup battery with enough charge stored from your panels, it can kickstart your home’s power and keep essential appliances running, including your solar system.
That said, while solar batteries aren’t mandatory, they definitely add value.
Myth 10: Solar Energy Doesn’t Work at Night
Solar panels don’t work at night — but solar energy does. How? Through solar batteries or net metering.
Solar batteries can store excess energy your panels produce, which you can consume for nighttime use.
On the other hand, net metering is an arrangement where your utility company rewards you with “energy credits” for excess energy sent back to the grid. These credits can offset your electricity use at night.
Myth 11: I Need a Special Insurance Policy to Cover My Solar Panels
In most cases, adding solar only requires a simple update to your home insurance policy — no need to get an entirely new one.
Most insurers include solar systems as part of your existing homeowner’s policy, often with little or no extra cost.
However, things can be different if your panels are installed on the ground or mounted on secondary structures like sheds or garages. In such cases, your coverage might be lower, or you may need to purchase additional coverage (sometimes called riders) to ensure your system is fully protected.
I’ve discussed this in more detail in the article Are solar panels covered by home insurance.
Myth 12: Homeowners Will Have No Electricity Bills After Installing Solar
For starters, you’ll still have an electricity bill if your home solar system is designed to cover only part of your grid usage.
But even if your solar panels are built to cover your entire energy consumption, your utility will likely still require you to pay grid connection fees or other fixed charges for maintaining your access to the power grid.
Myth 13: HOAs Prohibit You From Installing Solar
Many states have “solar access laws” that protect homeowners from HOA restrictions. While your HOA may have guidelines about system placement, they often cannot prevent you from installing solar altogether.
Wrapping Up
Going solar is one of the biggest decisions you can make, and separating fact from fiction can make all the difference.
That said, feel free to visit the Avail Solar blog — a free resource packed with helpful guides and practical insights — so you can make smart decisions and get the most out of home solar.
Or if you’re ready to see how solar can work for your home, request a quote today, or give us a call and talk with one of our solar experts.