Top 5 myths about photovoltaic panels

Photovoltaic panels have become highly popular as a sustainable energy solution that lowers power bills for families. However, despite their growing adoption, there are still some misconceptions surrounding this technology that sometimes come up. In this blog we will expose some myths about photovoltaic panels and provide you with the facts you need to make an informed decision. Whether you are considering which photovoltaic panels fit your home best or you are just curious, this guide will help you to separate facts from fiction and fully understand the true potential of photovoltaic panels.

Unmasking myths about photovoltaic panels

Here is a list of the most common myths and misconceptions about photovoltaic panels, along with some facts and information to explain the truth about them.

• Photovoltaic panels are too expensive: The cost of photovoltaic panels has significantly and steadily decreased over the past 50 years. Advances in technology and increased production have transformed the industry, greatly reducing the manufacturing cost of photovoltaic panels. Today there are plenty of affordable options to install photovoltaic panels in a wide range of homes like our Robinsun Performance plugin solar kits. Additionally, at Robinsun we work with seQura to offer split payments, allowing for up to 12 low monthly installments to pay your plug-in solar kit. Once you have the photovoltaic panels installed you are going to start saving money on your energy bill immediately. Find out how much you can save using our Savings Calculator.
• Photovoltaic panels require a lot of maintenance: Photovoltaic panels require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections are usually sufficient to keep them in good working condition. As we already show you in our latest blog how to take care of your photovoltaic panels, you can see how easy and cheap it is. You only need some water and a soft cloth to clean them (yes, you only need water). Avoid harmful chemicals products at all costs. The goal of cleaning your photovoltaic panels is to remove the dust on them, that creates a shadow in the cells, lowering production.

• Photovoltaic panels work only on big surfaces and warm climates: In the past, photovoltaic panels were used mostly for large surfaces and the roofs of large commercial buildings. However, in the past decade the technology behind photovoltaic panels has evolved and made it easier to also install on ever smaller surfaces. There are plenty of options for small houses and apartments, where you can install photovoltaic panels by yourself. Robinsun mounts offer all kinds of options to install photovoltaic panels in just a few minutes, such as on balconies, walls, pergola, gardens, flat roofs and even tiled roofs. On the other hand the first thing that comes to mind when someone thinks about photovoltaic panels is the sun and its heat. As a result, many people believe that photovoltaic panels only work in warm climates and sunny locations. However the truth is that photovoltaic panels are effective in a variety of climates, including the cold ones. In fact, photovoltaic panels work best at a temperature of 25 C. This is because photovoltaic panels produce electricity from sunlight, not from heat. Additionally snowy surfaces reflect sunlight enhancing the photovoltaic panels’ productivity in winter, as we explained in a previous blog. Therefore, photovoltaic panels are a good option for both warm and cold climates all year round.
• Photovoltaic panels are hard to install: Despite the huge popularity of self-installable solar solutions, as demonstrated by the over 2.000.000 kits installed in Germany, there is still a perception that to install photovoltaic panels you need an electrician or professional installer. However the truth is that the plugin solar kits like our Robinsun perfomance are easy to install for anybody in a very short amount of time. Check this installation video for example. Additionally, there are plenty of mounting options for different kinds of installations, such as balconies; pergolas, flat roofs, walls or tiled roofs, as mentioned earlier. Find the best option for you on Robinsun.com, any member of the Robinsun team can help you. Feel free to contact us through email, WhatsApp, or call us directly if you have any questions.
• Photovoltaic panels warranty is low: Another myth about photovoltaic panels concerns their quality and lifetime. There is a common belief that photovoltaic panels exposed to sun and rain will only last a few days before breaking. However the truth is that current generations’ photovoltaic panels have a 30 year performance warranty from the manufacturer and a 25 year product warranty for materials and workmanship. Our micro inverters from Tsun come with a 12 year performance warranty from the manufacturer. 

Conclusions

Our plugin solar kit uses photovoltaic panels that are versatile, efficient and incredibly affordable. After debunking common myths, we’ve shown that photovoltaic panels can work in various climates and be installed on a wide range of surfaces. They are easy and fast to install, require minimal maintenance, come with long-life warranties, and allow you to track energy productions and real-time savings at any time. And don't forget the most important thing: significant long-term savings and helping our planet.