Popular Solar Panel Myths Debunked | O’Brien Maintenance Group
16496
post-template-default,single,single-post,postid-16496,single-format-standard,bridge-core-3.0.7,qode-page-transition-enabled,ajax_fade,page_not_loaded,,qode-title-hidden,qode-child-theme-ver-1.0.0,qode-theme-ver-29.4,qode-theme-bridge,qode_header_in_grid,wpb-js-composer js-comp-ver-8.0.1,vc_responsive
closeup of solar panels

Solar Panel Myths Debunked

Share this:

With so much misinformation about solar panels on the web, it can be difficult to distinguish common misconceptions from solar panel facts. Because of this, some property owners become hesitant to install solar panels because of popular myths they’ve read or heard on the internet. Thankfully, the web is also a valuable tool for spreading awareness and facts to expose rumours and falsehoods. In this article, we will debunk some of the most common solar panel myths and set the record straight.

Most Popular Solar Panel Myths Debunked

There are plenty of myths and questions surrounding solar energy. For instance, is solar power renewable or nonrenewable? This type of energy comes from the sun. Since the sun provides an endless supply of heat and light, that means solar power is renewable, sustainable, accessible and completely inexhaustible. Let’s move on to the rest of the popular myths.

Myth 1: Solar Panels Take More Energy to Make Than They Can Produce

This myth is simply not true. Solar panels are composed of photovoltaic cells, which are made of silicon. Making silicon from sand is quite an energy-intensive process. However, once silicon is made, it requires very little energy to create a solar panel. In fact, most solar panels will generate enough electricity during their lifespan to offset the energy used to create them.

Myth 2: The Bigger the System, the Bigger the Savings

This solar panel myth is partially true and partially false. Yes, if you have a more extensive system, you will generate more electricity and see higher savings on your electric bill. However, the size of your solar panel system is not the only factor determining your savings – solar panels produce more electricity per square metre in sunny places than in cloudy ones. So, a small solar panel system in a sunny location can actually generate more electricity (and savings) than an extensive solar panel system in a generally cloudy locale.

solar panel under cloudy sky

Myth 3: Solar Panels Don’t Work When It’s Cloudy or Cold

Solar panels actually work best when it’s cool – the optimal temperature for solar panel efficiency is between 25-30 degrees Celsius. In fact, solar panels produce more electricity on cool days than on hot days because the heat can cause the solar cells to expand and become less efficient. As for cloudy days, solar panels can still generate electricity – they just don’t work as well. Solar panels typically produce about 30% of their rated power on a cloudy day.

Myth 4: You Can’t Use Solar Power at Night

This solar panel myth is another common misconception because you can use solar energy at night – you just can’t generate it. Solar panels can produce energy when exposed to sunlight, so they obviously can’t generate electricity at night. However, you can still use solar power at night if you have a battery system that stores the electricity generated during the day. When it’s dark, the stored solar energy will be released from the battery and can be used to power your home.

Myth 5: Solar Panels Will Power My Home During a Blackout

This myth is false. Solar panels are connected to the grid and rely on it for power. So, if there’s a blackout, your solar panels will go dark too. However, if you have a battery system, you can use the stored solar power to keep your lights on during a blackout.

Myth 6: Installing Solar Panels Will Damage My Roof

This solar panel myth is also false. As long as your solar system is installed correctly, it shouldn’t damage your roof. Solar panels are actually good for your roof because they protect it from the elements and can increase its lifespan. Solar panels are installed with unique mounts and brackets that keep them securely attached to your roof.

closeup of dirty solar panels

Myth 7: Solar Panels Don’t Work If They’re Dirty

This solar panel myth is false. Solar panels can get dirty, but it doesn’t impact their performance. However, if your solar panels are too dirty, they will be less efficient. The best way to clean solar panels is with a hose and a soft brush. It would be best never to use a power washer on solar panels because it can damage them. But if you want to ensure that you avoid potentially damaging your panels, it’s best to get professional solar panel cleaning services.

Myth 8: Solar Panels Don’t Work When It’s Raining

This solar panel myth is false. Solar panels work better when it’s raining because the rain washes away any dirt or debris on the solar panels. However, if your solar panels are covered in snow, they will not be able to generate electricity until the snow is cleared off.

Myth 9: Solar Panels are Too Expensive

Solar panel costs have significantly dropped over the years, making them more affordable than ever. Solar panels are now cheaper than traditional forms of energy like coal and natural gas. And, with federal and state tax credits, the cost of solar panels can be even lower. In some cases, solar panel systems can pay for themselves in just a few years.

Final Thoughts and Solar Panel Facts

As you can see, there are many popular solar panel myths out there. But, the good news is that they’re all false. Solar panels are a safe, reliable, and affordable way to generate electricity. If you’re considering going solar, it’s essential to research and dispel any myths you may have heard. Solar power is an excellent source of renewable energy that can save you money and help the environment.

Keep Your Solar Panels Efficient with Professional Cleaning

Dirty solar panels prevent you from reaping the full benefits of your solar system. So, keep them from accumulating too much dirt by getting regular cleaning services. You can always do it yourself, but cleaning solar panels can be tricky since it needs gentler hands and more precise methods to remove accumulated grime.

So, leave this job to the experts at O’Brien Maintenance Group. As professionals who offer solar panel cleaning solutions, we ensure that your panels are safe before, during and after the cleaning session. Get in touch with us to know more about how we can help you.


Share this: