When homeowners start researching solar, they’re hit with a flood of ads, claims and “too good to be true” promises. Unfortunately, some of the most common marketing messages in the solar industry are not just misleading, they can cost customers thousands of pounds over the lifetime of their system.
To help consumers make smarter decisions, here are five major solar marketing myths that continue to drain wallets.
Myth 1: “All Solar Panels Are Basically the Same”
This myth is encouraging customers to shop on price alone, but panel quality and efficiency varies massively. Different panels perform differently in heat, low light, bad weather and over time. Some degrade faster, meaning customers lose efficiency and money every single year.
Reality:
Quality panels and trusted brands offer higher outputs, better warranty support and longer lifespan. Choosing the cheapest system usually means paying more in the long run.
Myth 2: “A 10-Year Warranty Means You’re Fully Covered”
Many marketing materials highlight a single warranty figure as if it protects everything. Solar systems actually include several separate warranties: panel performance, workmanship, inverter and inverter.
Reality:
A 10 year warranty might only cover workmanship, not performance issues. Customers need clear, transparent warranty breakdowns to avoid costly surprises in the future. Always look at the terms and conditions of the warranty, as some brands require annual servicing to be carried out.
Myth 3: “Your System Will Generate the Exact Amount We Estimate”
Some companies create overly optimistic and inflated generation estimates to close a sale. This leads customers to believe they’ll earn more or save more than is realistic for their home.
Reality:
Accurate estimates require proper calculations – roof pitch, orientation, shading analysis, panel spec and local climate data. Anything else is guesswork and can mislead customers by thousands of pounds. Using an installer that is EPVS verified will help protect you from this, as all quotes and estimates are verified by an independent third party for accuracy.
Myth 4: “Batteries Always Pay for Themselves Quickly”
Battery storage is powerful, but it isn’t a one size fits all solution. Some companies push batteries whether the customer needs one or not.
Reality:
The payback period depends on usage patterns, export rates, tariffs and system size. A good installer will assess these factors first instead of upselling blindly. Choosing a solar battery that is right for your property will result in a short payback period.
Myth 5: “Big National Companies Are Always Cheaper, Faster and Better”
Large solar brands spend enormous amounts on marketing, from TV ads to social campaigns and it’s the customer that usually ends up paying these costs.
Reality:
Local installers typically offer better value, personalised service and long term support. Local companies rely more on reputation than volume based sales tactics. A national company is more likely to use third party sub contractors, leaving you not knowing the quality of work to expect.
How Customers Can Protect Themselves
- Compare detailed quotes – not just total price
- Ask for realistic generation modelling
- Understand every warranty included and the terms and conditions
- Choose installers who educate not pressurise you into signing fast
- Check reviews, not just ads
Final Thoughts
Solar is one of the best long term investments a homeowner can make, but misleading marketing can turn that investment into frustration, stress and costly mistakes. By debunking these myths, customers can make informed decisions and maximise the value of their solar PV system.
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
