Today’s homeowners are more aware of the effects of global warming and want to do what they can to help the environment. Increased need to shrink our carbon footprint has created a high demand for renewable energy. Today there are several options for renewable energy that have the potential to change our world for the better.

Solar energy is perhaps one of the most useful power systems that homeowners can use to make their properties better for the environment. However, there has been some skepticism about solar power in Frederick. It’s time to shake your doubt of solar energy and show just how much it can benefit you and your home.

Myth 1: Solar Panels Can’t Work During the Winter

Contrary to popular belief, solar panels can work in many different types of environments, including cold and cloudy weather. Today’s solar technology allows paneling to work just as efficiently as in the summer, perhaps even more so, as panels are more effective in colder temperatures. Cloudy or snowy weather does not prevent solar panels from being optimally efficient. They are still a useful source of electricity and can produce plenty of power.

Myth 2: During a Power Outage, Solar Energy Can Still Keep My Home Running

Power outages are a huge inconvenience, so it’s understandable why you would want this myth to be true. If your solar panel system connects to the grid, you will also experience a total loss of power during a blackout. This is because it is dangerous to run your solar electricity to wiring that city electricians may be trying to fix. During a power outage, your inverter can detect that the grid is shut off and also shut off your solar power generator.

Myth 3: Solar Power Isn’t Cost-Effective

Many people believe that solar energy is more financial trouble than it’s worth. In their conception and introduction to public markets, solar paneling was considered very expensive. But, more streamlined designs and higher demand have made solar panels much more affordable to install and maintain. Their average costs have lowered by over 30% over the past ten years. Solar panel systems pay for themselves, as homeowners can begin to see a return on investment five to ten years after installing.

Myth 4: Installing Solar Panels is Complicated and Requires Too Much Maintenance

Complicated installation is only a problem if you decide to install a solar power system on your own. The best way to have your solar panels installed is through your local solar company in Erie, CO. With a reliable installation service, fitting your home with panels is straightforward.

Maintenance shouldn’t be too much of a problem for homeowners, either. If your solar panel system connects to your local grid, there isn’t much to maintain. Homeowners only need to clean their panels and remove any accumulated dust or debris. Solar panels are built to withstand harsh weather, but if you want them to work in the winter, they may require the removal of any accumulated snow. Off-grid solar panels do require a little more maintenance, as the batteries need replacing every few years. The replacement schedule varies depending on the make of the battery and the paneling manufacturer.

Myth 5: Solar Panels Damage Your Roof

On the contrary, solar panels add longevity to your roof. Panels can cover a large area of your shingles, protecting them from the elements. If you discover that your roofing under one of your panels is damaged and needs a repair, you can easily remove the panel since it isn’t directly attached to your roof. It is better to avoid having to do this, so make sure that your roof is in good condition before you begin your panel installation.

Myth 6: It’s Challenging to Sell a Home With Solar Panels

Fitting your home with solar panels increases the value of your property. Solar panels make your home more cost-efficient, drastically reducing the monthly electricity bills that the new owner would have to pay. During negotiations, this and the original price of installation can be used to leverage a higher selling price.

Some homeowners are hesitant to install solar energy systems because they fear that buyers may not appreciate the aesthetic value of the panels. However, many studies have shown that homes fitted with solar panels sell faster than homes without them.

Myth 7: Clean Coal is a Reasonable Alternative to Solar Energy

Just because the word “clean” is in the name, doesn’t make it so. Coal is a dirty fossil fuel. The more coal people use, the more damage is done to the environment. Burning coal releases high levels of carbon and mercury in the form of suffocating smog.

Solar power is a harmless alternative that can drastically reduce the use of coal energy in your home. After the end of a solar panel’s lifespan, you can call your solar company in Louisville, CO to have them recycled and made into new paneling.

Myth 8: Bigger Homes Mean More Expensive Panels

Solar panels are not priced based on the size of your property. Your solar company in Erie will design panels to fit the specific needs of the homeowner and determine a price based on the end-product. A critical factor that determines the cost of the product is the slope and orientation of your roof, as well as the ease-of-access to the area where the panels will stay.

These are only a few of the many misconceptions people have about solar panels today. But solar energy in Firestone and Erie is a growing industry for a reason. Solar panels provide a cost-effective, safe option for power that also helps the environment. Contact your local solar energy provider today for an installation quote.