More than 5 million U.S. homes now have solar panels. And with their cost continuing to fall, they’ve become more accessible than ever. The advantages of installing solar panels are obvious – you can cut your electricity bills by 70%, pat yourself on the back for lowering your carbon footprint, and potentially increase your home’s value. But is there a downside to having solar?
You’ll sometimes hear that it is for hippies, that it’s too expensive, or that it doesn’t deliver. Like any investment, going solar doesn’t make sense for every homeowner. In fact, every home and community is different. In this article, we’ll give you tips and tricks to determine whether solar is the right choice for you.
Solar panels and home aesthetics
When solar panels first appeared on the market, they were bulky and not too pleasing to the eye. Over the years, their design has significantly improved, and you’ll find far more minimalist options that can be integrated with many different roof types and, sometimes, even replace an existing roof altogether. Forget about boring, silver frames – nowadays, homeowners can choose between different color options to make sure their solar panels match their home’s aesthetics.
If you’re still worried about the attractiveness of solar panels, think about other elements of your home. Remember that our perception of what is considered beautiful or not is often based on familiarity. Garage doors may not be the most stylish things in the world, but we’re so used to them that we hardly notice them. As more and more homeowners are adding solar panels to their roofs, their visual appeal will likely change too.
Solar panels don’t suit every roof
Technically, it’s possible to install solar panels on almost any roof. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a good fit. An unshaded, south-facing roof is the best option for maximum performance. If you have an east or west-facing roof, you should expect to generate around 15% to 20% less energy. Unfortunately, getting solar panels is usually not worth it for homeowners with a north-facing roof.
Similarly, you should know that some roofing materials work better with solar panels than others. For example, you won’t have issues installing panels on an asphalt or metal roof. However, homes with slate tiles can be trickier to work with, which could make the process more expensive.
Savings are lower when electricity is cheap
Whether or not it’s worth going solar also depends on your home’s location. If you’re based in an area with lower electricity prices, it may not be as viable.
In Hawaii, for instance, electricity prices are typically around 40-45 cents per kWh. The high price means solar panels will pay off more quickly than in Louisiana, where electricity is much cheaper.
It’s still quite expensive
I know, I know – I just said solar panels are getting more affordable. It is true, however, that purchasing a solar system is still a big investment. For batteries alone, you might have to pay around $5,000!
The good news is that new solar technologies are constantly developing, which means their prices are reducing. Did you know that 10 years ago, a 6-kilowatt-hour residential solar system cost $50,000? Now, you shouldn’t expect to pay more than $20,000 for the same system.
Installation is challenging
If you’re an experienced DIYer, you might be tempted to install solar panels yourself. But that’s a big mistake. Although the task may not seem too difficult initially, it involves many steps and can be quite a hassle. That’s why it’s critical to use a professional contractor who knows all the ins and outs of the installation process.
Remember that, in most cases, solar panel warranties won’t cover defects if they’re caused by third-party installation.
How to make the right decision about solar power
Solar panels are becoming more popular every year, and it’s easy to see why – they offer significant advantages for homeowners.
However, to ensure whether going solar really is worth it, you should weigh all the pros and cons of your specific goals. Is there a downside to having solar? Of course! Every situation is different, which is why it’s critical to assess your location, home energy usage, and potential cost savings. If your electricity costs are already low or your roof isn’t a good fit, it might be wise to hold off on this decision.
Consider going solar if:
- Your energy bills are high;
- You’re the owner of your home;
- Your home is located in a state with net metering;
- Your roof is south, west, or east-facing;
- You qualify for tax incentives.
Unsure whether going solar is the right move for you? Still wondering ‘Is there a downside to having solar?’ for your home? Our friendly team at American Home Contractors will gladly answer your questions. Get in touch with us here.
Fact Checked by Lita Legzdina on 06/05/2025