Thinking about going solar? You’ve probably heard conflicting information. As Long Island solar experts, Powerhouse Energy hears the same myths repeatedly. Let’s separate fact from fiction.
Myth #1: “Solar Panels Don’t Work in New York Winters”
THE MYTH: Solar only works in sunny, warm climates. New York winters are too cold and dark.
THE FACT: Solar panels actually perform BETTER in cold weather.
- Panels generate electricity from sunlight, not heat
- Cool temperatures allow peak performance
- Snow reflects sunlight, boosting production when cleared
- Annual production is what matters—Long Island gets excellent year-round sun
- Germany has less sun than NY and is a global solar leader
Myth #2: “Solar Panels Are Too Expensive”
THE MYTH: Solar costs tens of thousands upfront, making it unaffordable.
THE FACT: Solar is more affordable than ever with $0 down options.
Available Incentives:
- 30% federal tax credit
- New York State tax credits
- PSEG Long Island utility rebates
- $0 down financing, leases, and PPAs
Real Example: $25,000 system – $7,500 federal credit – $3,000 state/local incentives = $14,500 actual cost. Many homeowners save money from month one—solar payments are less than current electric bills.
Myth #3: “Solar Panels Will Damage My Roof”
THE MYTH: Drilling for mounting damages roofs and causes leaks.
THE FACT: Professional installation protects and can extend your roof’s life.
- Proper waterproof flashing and sealants prevent leaks
- Panels shield roofs from UV, rain, hail, and weather wear
- Roof assessment happens before installation
- Workmanship warranties cover installation
- Panels can be removed for roof work if needed
Myth #4: “Solar Panel Maintenance is Expensive and Complicated”
THE MYTH: Panels require constant cleaning and repairs.
THE FACT: Solar panels are remarkably low-maintenance.
- Rain naturally cleans panels
- No moving parts to break or service
- 25-year panel warranties
- Monitoring systems alert you to issues
- Only potential cost: inverter replacement around year 12-15 ($1,500-3,000)—still far less than electricity savings
Myth #5: “My Roof Isn’t Right for Solar”
THE MYTH: Only south-facing roofs work. Shade means no solar.
THE FACT: Most Long Island homes are excellent candidates.
Direction Performance:
- South-facing: Optimal (100%)
- Southeast/Southwest: Excellent (90-95%)
- East/West: Good (80-90%)
- North-facing: Less ideal but workable
Shade Solutions:
- Microinverters optimize each panel individually
- Strategic placement avoids major shade
- Works on all roof types (asphalt, metal, tile, flat)
Myth #6: “Solar Will Make My Electric Bill $0”
THE MYTH: Going solar eliminates electric bills entirely.
THE FACT: Most systems reduce bills 70-90%, not always 100%.
- Net metering credits excess production
- Small grid connection fees typically remain
- Average Long Island savings: $1,200-2,000/year
- $0 bills ARE possible with proper sizing and energy consciousness
Myth #7: “Solar Panels Don’t Last Long”
THE MYTH: Panels degrade quickly and need replacement in 10 years.
THE FACT: Solar panels last 25-30+ years with minimal degradation.
- Modern panels degrade ~0.5% per year
- After 25 years, still produce 85-90% output
- 25-year performance warranties standard
- Many panels from the 1970s still producing today
Myth #8: “Solar Doesn’t Increase Home Value”
THE MYTH: Solar doesn’t add value or makes homes harder to sell.
THE FACT: Solar significantly increases home value and marketability.
- Homes sell for 4-6% more than comparable non-solar homes
- On a $500,000 Long Island home, that’s $20,000-30,000 added value
- Buyers love lower ongoing costs and environmental benefits
- Solar homes often sell faster
Myth #9: “Installing Solar is Disruptive and Takes Forever”
THE MYTH: Installation tears up property and takes months.
THE FACT: Professional installation is quick and minimally disruptive.
Timeline:
- Physical installation: 1-3 days
- Total process (permits, inspections): 2-3 months
- Work happens outside; daily routine continues normally
- Professional crews protect property and clean thoroughly
Myth #10: “I Should Wait for Better Technology”
THE MYTH: Future solar will be better and cheaper.
THE FACT: Waiting costs you money in lost savings and incentives.
- Current technology is excellent and proven
- Incentives may decrease (federal credit has reduced before)
- Every year waiting = another year of full electricity bills
- Utility rates rise over time
- Current panels will pay for themselves before any breakthrough tech arrives
The Truth About Solar on Long Island
Solar works exceptionally well here. Our climate, incentive programs, and electricity rates create ideal conditions.
Real Long Island Benefits:
- 70-90% average bill reduction
- Protection from rising utility rates
- Increased home value
- Excellent ROI
- Energy independence
Why Choose Powerhouse Energy
We Provide:
- Local Long Island expertise
- Transparent, no-pressure process
- Quality installation with premium equipment
- Comprehensive service from assessment to ongoing support
- Proven customer satisfaction across Nassau and Suffolk Counties
Get the Facts About YOUR Home
Every home is different. Get a personalized assessment to learn:
- Your home’s solar potential
- Estimated savings
- Available incentives
- System cost with financing options
- Payback timeline
