In the Solar Panel World, there are tons of misconceptions and false beliefs floating around on the internet. To help solar enthusiasts differentiate facts from fiction, AES has put together the common misconceptions about solar panels.
#1. Solar Panels Don’t Work When It’s Cold
It is a common misconception that solar panels either don’t work during the colder months, or that they produce less energy when it is cold. The truth is that solar panels extract their energy from sunlight, not from heat. Some studies have even shown that solar panels perform even better and have higher conductivity rates in colder temperatures. So, the good news is that your solar panels will continue to work and generate just as much energy even during the coldest times of the year. As long as you live in an area that gets an adequate amount of sunshine year-round, like Las Vegas, you can reap the benefits of your solar energy regardless of the temperature. If you are interested in Las Vegas solar panels or solar energy in Las Vegas, call American Energy and Solar today to find out what we can do for you.
#2. Solar Panels Don’t Work When It’s Cloudy
If your area has some cloudy days, it’s no need for concern. While it is true that solar panels perform best in areas that receive a lot of direct sunlight, they don’t require direct sunlight to produce energy. Think about it this way: the world doesn’t go completely dark on cloudy days, which means the sun’s rays are still making their way through the clouds. Solar panels work by collecting these rays, so your solar system will still be able to reflect and collect the visible sunlight that penetrates the clouds.
#3. Solar Panels Will Damage Your Roof
This used to be a legitimate concern when solar panels were new to the market, as they used to require a lot of hardware which could cause permanent damage to your roof. However, solar panel technology has greatly improved since they were first introduced and this is no longer an issue. They are now created to be quick and easy to install, and can actually help protect your roof instead of harm it.
#4. Installing Solar Panels Will Damage my Roof
Man of our potential clients worry about damaging their roof during the solar panel installation process. Solar Systems typically last anywhere between 25 to 30 years, so it’s important to make sure installing panels doesn’t cause harm to your roof. Fortunately, roof damage as a result of a solar panel installation is extremely rare because installers take precautionary steps while installing panels to prevent leaks and other damage from occurring.
In other words, if properly installed solar panels will not cause damage to your roof. In fact, Solar Panels can offer enhanced protection of your roof, and increase your home value.
#5. Solar Cells Only Work on Sunny Days
Solar Systems do work on cloudy days, but will lack in performance and efficiency when compared to a bright, sunny day. A rough estimation is that a solar panel will generate about 10-20% of their normal power output during a cloudy day.
#6. Solar is Too Expensive
The total cost of a solar system can be quite expensive depending on the system requirements. The average residential 5kW size system costs between $3-$5 per Watt. This results in an average system cost anywhere between $15,000 and $25,000.
In the “long run” however, Solar Systems seem to be a great financial investment when considering the cash and tax incentives, further the company incentives and gift cards, the added value in your home’s retail value, and low maintenance costs, a solar system can pay for itself in just a few years.
#7. Solar Panels are Ugly
Some people think they look awkward, odd, and/or simply unappealing. Most people do not have a problem with the way standard solar panels look. On the contrary to what people may think is unattractive, the installations could actually trigger interest and even a little envy from people who drive by.
#8. Solar Panels Don’t Last Very Long
Your average Solar System can last anywhere between 25-30 years.
#9 Solar Panels Require Lots of Maintenance
Solar Panels require very little maintenance. All that’s needed is a soft sponge and some non corrosive cleaning solutions.
If you are interested in solar panels in the Las Vegas area, call American Energy and Solar today. We can help you bundle the cost of your solar panels into your existing mortgage. Check out AES’ Solar and Mortgage Calculator to see what your new mortgage with solar panels could look like.