Disadvantages of Solar Energy

By now, I hope you can agree that the advantages of going solar are so enticing that they far outweigh any potential disadvantages.

However, just like anything else, there’s always some disadvantages you should be aware of when considering installing solar panels on your home.

At Solar.com, we believe in full transparency around solar panel technology. That’s why we’ve put together this complete list of any and all of the disadvantages that could exist for going solar.

The sooner we acknowledge these concerns, the sooner more homeowners will choose solar!

What are the Disadvantages of Solar Energy?

Solar Panels are an Unfamiliar Technology

Going solar is a construction project on your property. It might seem daunting as you might have to deal with a lot of unfamiliar concepts such as selecting the right equipment (solar panels, inverter, battery, mounting), finding a good local installer, financial options, incentives, and tax credits.

Particularly if you aren’t a technical person or engineer, we highly recommend speaking to an expert in order to find a solar panel array that best suits you and your home.

Solar Panel Mounting Will Penetrate Your Roof

Roof penetrations are one of the biggest client concerns we hear about when it comes to solar panel installations.

The panels have to be steadily placed on the roofs with the help of mounts that have to be drilled into your roof’s rafters. And again installation practices vary by your roof type and material.

While working on clay or stone tiles, some tiles may need to be removed and cuts may need to be made to install the mounts and flashing.

Roof with asphalt composite shingles is easy to work with as they need just rafters to be installed. Also, standing-seam metal roofs require no heavy penetration as the solar mounting clamps can be attached directly to the seams.

Related reading: The Pros and Cons of Going Solar

This highlights the importance of choosing a certified, professional installer. Price isn’t everything!

A good installer (like all of the ones we present to you on Solar.com) will have a solid workmanship warranty to cover any possible damage to your roof that occurs.

If your roof configuration or material isn’t suitable for solar, there are always alternatives like ground mounted systems and carports, too.

High-Pressure Selling in the Home Solar Industry

Because installing a solar panel system is an unfamiliar construction project for a lot of homeowners, certain salespeople for certain solar companies might want to take advantage of your situation by having you sign an agreement that might not be in your best interest.

These unfamiliar processes coupled with high-pressure sales can give you a bad buying experience.

For instance, salespeople may sometimes guarantee overestimated system production. That could make your potential savings with solar look better than what’s realistic.

It is important to educate yourself on the concepts around solar power system before making a decision.

Fortunately, our service at Solar.com helps you go solar with 100% confidence. Our remote team designs your system online and provides you with multiple quotes from our approved installers. Instead of worrying about if the installer you’re negotiating with is legitimate, you can get multiple offers on Solar.com from installers who are competing to earn your project. That means time and money savings!