Solar Myths Debunked: The Truth On Cost, Performance & Repair

Solar energy is advancing faster than ever, yet outdated information and myths about solar energy still persist. With more than a decade of solar experience, GreenLancer has seen how common misconceptions can make it harder for homeowners to make informed decisions about going solar and taking full advantage of its benefits.

From concerns about the upfront cost and system performance to questions about long-term ownership, maintenance, and repair, we are here to provide the truth. Below, we debunk the biggest solar panel myths so you can make an informed decision, backed by the expertise of our national solar repair network.

Solar Energy Myth 1: Solar Panels Are Too Expensive

One of the most common misconceptions about solar energy is the idea that solar panels are still too expensive for the average homeowner. That may have been true years ago, but today’s prices tell a very different story.

Here are the key facts:

• Most homeowners see payback in 5–10 years, while solar panels typically last 30+ years.

• Many states and utilities still offer rebates or local incentives that reduce upfront costs.

• Solar financing can make monthly payments lower than your electric bill, creating immediate savings.

One solar panel myth with a bit of truth is that solar batteries don’t always offer the same fast payback as panels. Batteries provide backup power and energy independence, but the financial return depends on your rates and how often you use stored energy.

Understanding these solar myths and facts helps homeowners make informed decisions and avoid outdated assumptions about going solar.

Solar Panel Myth 2: Solar Panels Don't Work in Winter or Colder Climates

One of the most common misconceptions about solar energy is that solar panels don’t generate much power in colder climates or during winter. While it’s true that solar production is higher in the summer due to longer daylight hours, that doesn’t mean your system stops working when temperatures drop.

In reality, solar panels work more efficiently in cooler weather. Since solar panels generate electricity from sunlight, not heat, colder temperatures actually improve efficiency—helping your system produce more power than you might expect.

Even in winter, as long as your panels aren’t covered in snow, they can generate plenty of clean energy. In fact, solar panels installed at a steeper angle (such as on pitched roofs) can still capture sunlight effectively when the sun is lower in the sky.

So, while shorter days mean slightly lower output, the idea that solar panels don't work in winter is just another myth about solar energy.

Solar Panel Myth 3: Systems Require Constant Maintenance and Lack Warranties

This combination addresses the two biggest long-term ownership concerns: reliability and cost of repair.

A common solar panel myth is that solar systems require frequent maintenance and don't come with long-term warranties.

Solar Panel Warranties

In reality, almost all solar components include robust manufacturer warranties. Understanding these solar panel warranties is essential because they protect your investment, especially when you need solar system repairs.

• Power Performance Guarantees: Solar panels naturally degrade over time, but manufacturers guarantee a certain level of output after a set period—often ensuring 80% or more of original capacity after 25 years.

• Product Warranties: These cover defects in materials or workmanship and typically last 10–25 years, depending on the manufacturer.

Solar Inverter Warranties

Inverters have different warranty lengths based on their type:

• String inverters usually have 5–15-year warranties, though some brands, like SolarEdge, offer extended coverage for an additional fee.

• Microinverters (mounted on each panel) often have 25-year warranties, ensuring long-term reliability.

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Labor & Service Warranties

Although solar panel and inverter warranties protect the equipment itself, they don't always include labor. However, many solar panel installation companies offer their own warranties on labor. The length of these warranties varies by the contractor but typically ranges between 3 and 10 years, some solar panel installers offer longer warranties.

Solar Power Myth 4: My Solar Home Will Have Energy During a Power Outage

A common solar panel myth is that solar-powered homes will automatically have energy during a power outage. Unfortunately, most solar homes do not have power during grid outages unless they also have a battery storage system.

By design, grid-tied solar systems automatically shut down production (called 'anti-islanding') during an outage to protect utility company workers who are trying to fix the line.

If the system has batteries, the home will still have power. Most grid-tied solar systems with batteries have a critical load panel. This allows homeowners to choose which circuits have power during an outage (e.g., prioritizing the refrigerator or essential lighting).

Solar Panel Myth 5: PV Systems Will Store Excess Energy On Sunny Days 

A common solar energy myth is that photovoltaic (PV) systems will store the excess energy they generate on sunny days. However, solar systems without batteries don't have the ability to store energy.

The good news is that in most areas, homeowners can benefit from net metering. This program allows you to receive credits for any excess solar power you send to the grid. On sunny days, your solar system will first power your home, and any leftover energy will be fed to the grid. At night, when your home needs power, you can use those credits to offset the cost.

Solar Myth 6: Solar Modules Will Damage the Roof

Another common solar panel myth is that solar panels will damage the roof. In many cases, solar panels can actually help protect your roof by shielding it from hail and UV damage. However, it’s critical to ensure your solar panels are installed correctly to avoid any potential damage.

To make sure your system is installed properly, choose a qualified solar contractor with North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP)-certified installers and licensed electricians. A professional installation ensures the racking system is secure and waterproof, often extending the life of the area of the roof it covers.

Solar Panel Myth 7: You Need Special Insurance to Cover Your Solar System

A common solar panel myth is that homeowners need a special insurance policy to cover their solar system. While your solar panels are considered a permanent improvement to your home, most standard homeowners insurance policies will cover the system as long as the overall coverage limits are adequate.

The key is to make sure your insurance policy offers enough coverage to protect your solar system. Review the terms of your policy or talk with your insurance agent to ensure your solar system's value is specifically included in your dwelling coverage.

Solar Panel Myth 8: Homeowners Will Have Zero Electricity Bills

A common solar panel myth is that homeowners will have no electricity bills once they install a solar system. While going solar can significantly lower your electric bill, it’s unlikely that you’ll have zero utility charges.

Even if your solar system produces as much energy as your home uses, you’ll probably still have some fees. Utility bills typically have two parts: the supply charge (the energy you use) and the transmission and distribution charge (the cost of delivering the electricity through the grid).

While solar can eliminate the supply charge, the utility company still charges a transmission and distribution fee, which is a flat monthly rate for all customers. So, even with solar, you may still see that small fee on your bill, but your overall supply charge can be dramatically reduced or eliminated.

Solar Energy Myth 9: Systems Can't Be Repaired If The Original Installer Closes

A major solar myth is that if the company that installed your system goes out of business, your solar power system is "orphaned" and cannot be repaired or maintained, leaving you with an expensive, useless installation.

This is fundamentally untrue. The closure of a local installer does not stop you from getting your system fixed. The long-term performance and product warranties are held by the major component manufacturers (e.g., panels, inverters, and batteries). These manufacturers are large, stable, and will honor their warranty claims regardless of who the original installer was.

This is where a national solar repair network like GreenLancer becomes invaluable. Our national network of solar repair experts can diagnose and service virtually any brand, handle warranty claims directly with the manufacturer, and ensure your system continues to deliver peak solar performance.

Debunking Solar Myths is the First Step to Worry-Free Ownership

Debunking solar panel myths is the first critical step in making an informed decision about going solar. Misunderstandings about cost, efficiency, or long-term ownership can cause hesitation.

By understanding the truth behind these myths, you can feel more confident in your choice and be sure you're making the best decision for your home and budget. When you're well-informed, you're more likely to enjoy the long-term benefits of solar energy, including lower electricity bills and a positive environmental impact.

Looking for reliable and competitively priced solar inverter repairs, PV panel replacement, or troubleshooting? GreenLancer offers on-demand solar system repair services for fast, expert maintenance, ensuring your solar system stays up and running efficiently.